Personal branding is the conscious effort by an individual to intentionally influence how the public perceives them in their industry to elevate their credibility and set themselves apart. The objective of personal branding is to advance their career or have a bigger impact in their field. Personal branding is a form of self-packaging that leads to success. Sometimes, individuals or groups hire the services of a reputation management company, its role being to handle their public relations both offline and online.
For instance, with expansive growth of digital presence, censoring negative complaints and other ethical grey areas in websites is integral, as online reputation, with a click of a button, makes or breaks a person or their business. Status Labs, one of the leaders in the market, proposes that your personal branding can be strategized through your portfolio, website, blog posts, or promotional videos.
- Find your audience, and serve them exceptionally well. The fact that most areas are capable of being a profitable niche means that one can specialize in an area and grow into massive industries.
- Be inspired by others, but be unique. Reading about other entrepreneurs exposes you to not only their achievements but also ideas that can propel you into a unique strategy.
- Be authentic. Strive to be normal, approachable, and “real.” An authentic presence will appeal to your audience or clients, as opposed to a strictly business front. This helps create a personal brand that endears you to your audience.
- Aim to impact positively. Even when getting ahead of the competition, avoid burning bridges. Create a good reputation, and make it last.
- Be consistent. Use media outlets to bolster your credibility, and consistently create content by guest blogging on websites in your area of expertise. This exposes and lends credibility to your brand, building your online portfolio. To produce content regularly, a content posting schedule is essential. This way, your audience expects content from you and is not disappointed.
- Have a personal website. Buying a personal domain and having an online resume will put you out in Google’s search algorithm. Any search of your name gives it importance in the digital world. Take professional photos for your website, Google yourself, and in case of negative publicity, promptly get new and positive press mentions.
- Get social. Use social media platforms, and while you’re at it, consider your business or brand goals. For most professionals, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, and Twitter are essential. To have an offline presence, make the real world your friend. Attend seminars, networking events, and lectures; sponsor an event if you can; and network with professionals in your field.
- Let others tell your story. Never underestimate the power of word of mouth and what people say about you in your absence. Give them positive fodder.
- Leave a legacy. You have now built a personal brand; it has your reputation behind it, and your exit strategy is to leave a lasting impression on the industry.
- Engage professionals. Creating and maintaining one’s personal brand is not only daunting but also time-consuming. Engaging professionals to do the legwork behind the scenes and manage your reputation leaves you with the time to focus on your core business. A reputable company like Status Labs has experienced staff to watch your back.
