Building
Your
Personal
Brand
Zahrina Robertson
Today, there is a lot of talk about personal
branding and every career minded professional
understands its importance. Everybody has his
or her own personal brand. Effective brands are
based on reality. To build a strong brand, you
must focus on authenticity and who you really are.
Strong brands are uncovered, not created!
Strong personal brands know their values,
passions, goals and ultimate mission. You must
know yourself and to know yourself you need
to learn what others think about you. Since your
brand is held in the minds of the people who know
you, you must be constantly aware of external
perceptions. Think about what you stand for and
what your values are.
With a clearly defined brand statement, you
can begin to get the message out, both online
and offline. Start to share your story so you can
build emotional connections with your target
audience. LinkedIn, Facebook, Google Circles
and Instagram are some of the most accessed
websites on the Internet. By not being present
on these platforms, or by having an average
social media presence you are missing valuable
opportunities.
Effective personal branding requires constant
repetition. In the steps of this process you should
integrate your brand into everything you do to
increases the breadth of your brand, reinforce your
message and increase your credibility.
Personal branding requires steadfast commi tment,
regular attention and constant intention. This
should not daunt you, as above all else, personal
branding is about being your best self – always.
The Importance of looking after your
personal brand this Christmas, New
Year and Beyond…
The Christmas season is upon us once again and
so begins the staff parties, Christmas drinks and
New Years celebrations. The weather is warmer,
the days are longer and that is reason enough
to celebrate! The many events that surround
Christmas and the New Year could be the perfect
opportunity to showcase your personal brand.
You should enjoy yourself at these events; it is a
celebration after all! Be positive and spread good
Christmas cheer amongst your colleagues and
friends, as they will remember you in the New Year.
While staff parties are intended as social events to
reward employees for their hard work, they remain
strictly business events.