Call me an eternal optimist, but I believe that we were created to accomplish a purpose far bigger than ourselves. Imagine leading the way by starting a business to solve problems, leave your mark and make the world a better place. As a matter of fact, value driven businesses are created with that very purpose in mind. So, it is wise to take the time to consider the brand that will best identify the impact your business will make. This is one of the best reasons to build your personal brand, now, as a business leader, even before you leave your job.
Personal branding is a mark that you create for yourself. It makes you special and sets you apart from others. It’s the epitome of who you are and it is also unique because it tells us about your life, your principles and your passion. Here are three simple but impactful tips to remember about building your personal brand:
1. Brand with the future in mind: The most important thing about personal branding is you need to brand yourself in the career or business you want in the future and not necessarily what you currently have. Your personal brand should live on long after you’re gone. So, build it for a lifetime so that it will last a long time. For this reason, consider what it is you are passionate about as well as good at doing. This way, you can talk about and do what you love on purpose.
2. Brand with time in mind: Don’t expect overnight results. Personal branding is an ongoing process. After you have discovered the VP’S (vision, value, passion, purpose, strengths and skills) of your brand, reflect on your current brand, define your brand visually, write down your goals, aspirations, differentiated yourself and development plan, it is time to put your plan into action. You must be willing to be patient, start small and start building up your brand consistent with clarity. This way every new project, product or program you take on after that has an added value because it aligns with your own leadership brand in business.
3. Brand with your message in mind: Your brand is the message of your perceived value that promises results. This message once crystallized must be delivered. You must see yourself as your own PR agent. Not only must you believe in your story but share it. Focus on the niche, and platform that will allow you to magnetically attract your ideal target audience. Decide whether it will be communicated through speaking, website, FaceBook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Blab, Periscope, etc. Remember, you have to connect and solidify your brand in the minds and hearts of others for people to recognize it’s mark.
To sum it up, investing in your personal brand can have a great impact on your success. It comes down to understanding who you are and how you want to be represented through your brand. A strong message and an appreciation for the time it can take will go a long way in reaching your goals. Following these simple tips can help lay the foundation for what it takes to produce a strong brand. It is up to you whether you want to make it work or not. In the end, you are responsible for what you put into this world. Don’t let others dictate your outcome. Make a conscience effort to always be mindful of the impact you want to be known and remembered for making.