YOU Are a Brand. Accept it, Build it and Protect it.

Like it or not, YOU are your own brand. You ultimately represent something – a set of values, a message, expertise, special skills, reputation, etc.

Personal “branding” has become an integral part of our individual identity. Each decision we make, every word we speak, defines us, especially in our digital world. Embracing this realization can revolutionize your approach to life. You have an enduring impact.

As soon as you accept that you are a brand, you can build your brand and stand out.

Here are some tips to harness your branding potential so you can leverage it for your business or career.

1. Remember That You Are a Brand and You Represent That Brand – EVERYWHERE
Picture yourself as an item on display, awaiting discovery by a discerning customer. You’re not only the product but also the representation of it. Just as a product offers a specific promise, you are a collection of values, beliefs, and qualities that make up your personal brand. No matter where you are (online or offline), you consistently project and embody your brand. Being simply aware of this can help you present yourself with authenticity and consistency.

2. As a Brand, You Are Responsible for Selling Yourself
You are your own creator and marketer. No one else is responsible for your message so take on the responsibility of telling your story to distinguish yourself and captivate others. That is the essence of sales! We are selling ourselves everyday, even if we don’t recognize it. Figure out how to best showcase your skills, experiences, and passions in a way that resonates with your audience. Visualize yourself as a solution to the challenges people encounter. Remember your value and bring it with you when you talk to others. Be selective and targeted in the platforms you use.

3. Building a Brand Takes Work and Attention
Much like tending to a business brand, cultivating a personal brand necessitates ongoing effort for refinement and elevation. A potent personal brand isn’t fashioned overnight. It demands unwavering commitment to honing your skills, acquiring new knowledge, and adapting to the ever-shifting landscape. Your brand matures as you do, demanding both time and attention. If you’re ready to mix up your presence, consider adding on video or lives to social media, write more articles and blog posts, offer to contribute to a topic, comment more on people you follow, connect with and level up with people you admire online.

4. As a Brand, You Are Independent and You Need to Start Thinking Independently
A robust brand acknowledges its identity and stands steadfast in its distinctiveness. Similarly, as an individual brand, you must embrace your uniqueness and foster independent thought. Don’t shy away from expressing your viewpoints or pursuing paths aligned with your principles, even if they diverge from the norm. Independent thinking sets you apart and enriches your brand’s allure. Talk about your new way of thinking. Share it with others.

5. A Brand Stands Alone
Despite your participation in various communities and networks, your brand ultimately thrives independently. It’s an amalgamation of your experiences, skills, personality, and how you present yourself to the world. This autonomy empowers you to shape your brand’s narrative and steer its course. You can refine and target your brand because of this independence.

6. A Brand Must Stand Out Among Other Brands
In a world overflowing with countless brands – be they personal or corporate – setting yourself apart becomes imperative. What makes you exceptional? What distinguishes you from those who may share similar attributes? Pick three things and focus on them. Identifying your unique selling proposition and leveraging it strategically can propel you above the clamor and captivate your intended audience.

7. A Brand Doesn’t Really Have Competitors
Unlike businesses grappling with direct rivalry, personal brands lack traditional competitors. Each individual is one-of-a-kind, and your brand should embrace that individuality. Instead of fixating on outdoing others, focus on delivering value, maintaining authenticity, and perpetually enhancing your brand’s offerings. Bringing VALUE to something makes a brand special. Decide what value you bring.

8. You Need to Create Assets to Support Your Brand
In today’s visually-driven world, crafting assets aligned with your brand is important. These “assets” reinforce your brand identity, demonstrate your value, and amplify your professional presence. Invest in professional photos capturing your personality and professionalism. Create valuable digital publications within your field of expertise to showcase your thought leadership. Design a personal logo embodying your brand’s essence. Curate a robust LinkedIn profile or X presense spotlighting your journey and accomplishments. Even consider your own personal website. And, even in this digital era, business cards remain relevant for networking, so ensure they reflect your brand thoughtfully.

9. You Need to Protect Your Brand Like It’s a Member of Your Family
Your personal brand isn’t just a label; it’s an extension of who you are. Much like safeguarding your family, your brand deserves protection. Nurture it, guide it, and defend it against any threats that might undermine its integrity. Just as you would prioritize the well-being of a loved one, prioritize the preservation of your personal brand’s reputation. This means maintaining consistency, staying true to your values, and being mindful of the content you share and associate with.

It can feel odd to think about being a “brand”, especially if you have had a job for a long time. But in our online world, people see you, what you say, what you post, what you look like, what you represent both personally and professionally. Use it to your advantage, whether you are looking for that next career jump or venturing out on your own. Embrace this realization, and you’ll find that shaping your personal brand journey isn’t just empowering; it’s transformative.

For more information on business consulting, investing or selling, schedule a time with Cindy Rayfield at bit.ly/schedulecindy.