YOUR BEHAVIORS ARE YOUR BRAND

When most people think about their brand, they focus on controlling how others perceive them. While perception matters, true control over your brand comes from your mindset. It’s not just about crafting an image; it’s about how you perceive others, how you choose to engage with them, and the discipline you bring to every interaction. Your mindset shapes your actions, and your actions define your brand. ?

Consider a situation shared with me by a professional I was coaching. She was in discussions with a Vice President. This was her third conversation. During their three scheduled meetings, the VP was consistently late. The first time, it was ten minutes; the second, about 12 minutes; and by the third meeting, it was 30 minutes. Frustrated, my client emailed to suggest rescheduling, only to receive a response saying, “I’m ready now.” ?

When they finally connected, the VP profusely apologized, as she had done in the previous meetings, explaining that she had been speaking with another senior leader. The last time it was a construction worker and the time before that my client couldn’t remember the reason. While her reasons seem valid to her, what she didn’t realize was that the “why” wasn’t as important as the “what”. ?

The “why”—she was busy with someone else—didn’t change the “what”. Her behavior communicated that my client’s time and contributions weren’t important. Whether intentional or not, her actions revealed how she perceived my client and where she positioned her in relation to herself.

This dynamic reflects a larger truth: your behaviors equate to your brand. It’s not a far-fetched concept. How you treat others is directly tied to your perception of them, yourself, and your relationship to them.?

• Do you see others as equals?
• Do you position yourself as superior or dismiss their value??

Every interaction sends a message about your mindset and your brand. ?In this instance, intentional or not, the VP’s actions suggested a power play. Even though my client had delivered results for the organization, the VP’s repeated lateness signaled that she saw herself and other people as more important than my client. This approach is not only disrespectful but also short-sighted. ?

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The reality is that power dynamics are fluid. The person you dismiss today could be the one you need tomorrow. Branding isn’t about titles or authority; it’s about building trust and mutual respect through consistent, disciplined behavior. ?

The best advice I can offer about building a brand is to focus on the value each person brings rather than playing into hierarchies or personal biases. ?

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As you think about how you want to show up in 2025, consider this: your mindset drives your brand. Whether you’re punctual, respectful, or collaborative, your actions reflect how you view others and how you choose to engage with them. ?

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Ultimately, your brand isn’t about what you say—it’s about how you consistently show up. Ask yourself: Am I positioning myself as an equal partner in every interaction, or am I allowing my ego to shape my behavior? The answer will define your legacy and the lasting impression you leave on others. ?

What are your thoughts?

#leadership #personalbranding #mindset #careerdevelopment

?Copyright ? 2025 by S. Renee Smith

I help leaders become likable, marketable, and credible, increasing their impact, influence, and income. I support individuals and businesses. Want to learn more, visit me here.

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