As a creative agency, it’s no surprise that we recommend empowering your team to develop their own personal brand to support you in reflecting who you are as a company and help you stand out as a thought leader in your industry.
After all, in a world where competition is fierce and attention spans are shorter, building a personal brand is no longer optional, it’s essential.
Whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned professional, your personal brand is how the world perceives you before you’ve even stepped into a room. It’s your reputation, voice, and value – all wrapped into one.
In a recent talk with LMA (The Liverpool Media Company), we discussed what personal branding means and how you can build one that truly represents you.
Here’s what we discussed:
What is Personal Branding?
Personal branding is the art of presenting yourself in a way that reflects your values, strengths, and ambitions. It’s about controlling your narrative rather than letting others define it for you. In the words of Henry Ford, “You can’t build a reputation on what you’re going to do.” Your actions, content, and presence must consistently show who you are and what you stand for.
6 Reasons Why Personal Branding Is Important
- Differentiation in a Crowded Market
Every industry is saturated. Personal branding helps you stand out, carving a unique space that reflects your identity and what you offer.
- Builds Trust and Credibility
People trust people. A strong personal brand makes you the go-to person for ideas, leadership, and collaboration.
- Attracts the Right Opportunities
Job offers, partnerships, and exciting projects come to those who are visible and memorable. Your personal brand acts as a magnet for the right connections.
- Boosts Career and Business Growth
Whether you’re an entrepreneur or climbing the corporate ladder, your personal brand often influences how others perceive your capability and potential.
- Puts You in Control of Your Story
Without a personal brand, assumptions fill the void. By shaping your online presence, networking strategically, and showcasing your work, you take charge of your narrative.
- Builds Long-Term Legacy
Great leaders and influencers don’t emerge overnight, they build a reputation over time through authenticity, storytelling, and consistency.
How to Start Building Your Brand
Laying the foundations of your personal brand can be challenging, especially when it comes to introducing yourself. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin. That’s why it’s important to keep the process fun and creative. One of our favourite ways to do this is through mood boarding – it’s a playful, visual way to explore your personality and how you want to present yourself.
When getting started, ask yourself:
- If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
- What do you hope others feel when they encounter your brand?
- What’s the first step you’ll take to refine or develop your brand?
Sharing your mood board with someone else can offer valuable insight – does their interpretation align with how you see yourself?
The Perfect Mix
When building your brand, remember to:
Be Confident
Be Authentic
Be Consistent
Be Trustworthy
Be Passionate
These five traits create a solid foundation for a personal brand that not only reflects who you are but resonates with others for years to come.
Final Thought:
Personal branding isn’t a one-time exercise, it’s a journey. It evolves with your experiences, challenges and triumphs. Whether you’re building a career, launching a business, or simply defining your next chapter, your brand is your most valuable asset, so make it count.
As an integrated marketing agency based in the North West, we help clients of all sizes create spokespeople within their companies. To find out how we can help you, please get in touch.
To find out more about our services, check out the rest of our website or email us at marketingteam@thisisinfluential.com for a chat.