You may not realise it but your personal brand already exists. Because people do not stop perceiving you. The way you behave, your communication skills, your habits are all elements that contribute in building your personal brand. Your personal brand is a silent ambassador, a perception woven through your behaviour, communication, and habits.
However, the game-changer lies in consciously shaping it, becoming a magnetic force that attracts opportunities and fuels your career growth.
Why a Robust Personal Brand Matters:
Without a personal brand, you risk being a mere commodity, selling on price. A brand, however, injects value, differentiation, and authenticity. It’s the key to standing out, boosting negotiation power, and staying top of mind and gives confidence to your employers to work with you.
Unlocking Your Personal Brand Equation:
Think of yourself as a business consultant collaborating with employers to solve challenges—a win-win creator.
A personal brand = How you create value for your client (AKA employer).
Jeff Bezos captures it perfectly: “Your personal brand is what others say about you when you leave the room.”. It is how you make people feel.
8 Strategic Steps to Shape Your Personal Brand:
1. Define Your Value Proposition:
· Ask yourself how you save or make an employer enough money to justify hiring you.
2. Identify the Problem You Solve:
· Pinpoint the problem you’re passionate about solving with your skills.
3. Clarify Your Rules of Engagement:
· Your brand is a reflection of who you are. Outline your values, beliefs, and the processes you use to create value.
4. Highlight Your Brand Attributes:
· Choose 3 or 4 adjectives that best describe the value you offer. Define your personality with impactful words.
5. Showcase Your Unique Value – Core Strengths/Skills:
· Excel in specific functions and responsibilities. Be the designated “go-to” person for your unique strengths, whether it’s mentoring, innovating, analyzing, or leading.
6. Gather Feedback:
· Understand the reputation you hold. Ask others how they introduce you, and seek feedback on your brand attributes and strengths.
7. Conduct a SWOT Analysis:
· Assess your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.
8. Align with Your Career Goals:
· Plan your top career goal for the next year and align your personal branding goal with it.
Ready to amplify your brand and unlock doors in your career journey? These 8 steps are your roadmap to creating a personal brand that resonates and propels you towards success.
P.S : You can attend my FREE Live session on – Empower Your Career Through Personal Branding on Wednesday 17th Jan 24 at 7.30 pm (IST) by clicking the link below:
https://www.linkedin.com/events/empoweryourcareerthroughpersona7152929424722571266/theater/
See you then!
Best!
Sarabjeet Sachar
Seasoned Career Coach, Founder & CEO, Aspiration