The most successful products have compelling, memorable brands. The same concept applies to individuals. A strong brand will enhance your reputation. Follow these do’s and don’t’s in creating your own personal brand.
1. Be clear
Your personal brand requires clarity about who you are and the skills you offer. It’s difficult to tell from this ad if they’re shocking hams or selling them. Enhance your personal brand by being clear.
2. Focus
Identify who you are and the message you want to convey. People who try to be all things to all people often find themselves being nothing to no one. Put your best foot forward in a deliberate and focused manner.
3. Offer something of value
Review your skill set and promote those that are most valuable to others. Instead of focusing on what you want to sell, consider what your audience wants to buy and highlight your most relevant, marketable skills.
4. Be credible
When a manufacturer promotes a product that isn’t credible, people are not likely to purchase it. The same concept applies to personal branding. If what you’re selling isn’t believable, it’s going to collect dust on the shelf.
5. Be truthful
Buying a car is tricky – partly because information doesn’t always appear truthful. When asking the out-the-door price, some dealers will give you their price not yours. Completing the purchase can result in sticker shock when taxes and other fees are included. Don’t leave people with sticker shock – be completely truthful from the beginning.
6. Don’t exaggerate
Exaggeration is tied to truthfulness. When something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Products don’t sell this way and neither do people. Don’t exaggerate your skills. Sell accurately to build a positive reputation.
7. Don’t misdirect
It can be tempting to claim to have skills that are close but not exactly on the mark, especially when in transition. Misdirecting others about your talents will dilute the ones you actually have. Focus on what you actually can offer rather than what you wish you could.
8. Don’t omit crucial information
Some people express discomfort in promoting themselves. However, building a personal brand requires communicating your talents in all their glory. Be sure not to overlook key aspects of your skill set – don’t leave out crucial information.
9. No mistakes
Attention to detail cannot be overstated. Every aspect of your professional presence is on display – how you look, how you act, your paperwork. Be sure everything is in order with no mistakes.
Building a personal brand takes time. Following the tips in this list will certainly help you create and achieve a reputation that will enhance your personal brand.
- Live long and prosper
=================
About the Author
Pam Waits has more than 20 years of experience in human resources with 10 years in the top HR spot for mid-sized companies. She currently works as a Human Resources consultant. Additionally, she holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
Pam is also a writer and humorist, defying the perception that human resource professionals lack a sense of humor. She’s a leader who believes humor is an important part of a healthy business culture and a necessary part of life. If you’re too busy to laugh, you’re too busy.
Pam Waits | Blog | HR Articles | Videos | email