“What exactly is a personal brand?” As an executive image consultant, I hear this question on a regular basis from my clients – especially those that have (or are building) a digital presence. Branding has become a huge buzzword, and even if you’re not exactly sure what a brand is… I’m here to tell you: they aren’t just for big businesses and designer labels! Your personal brand is an all-encompassing representation of who you are, and – equally as important! – how you’re perceived. And no matter what industry you’re in, impressions and perceptions matter. Let me give you some Polished tips: let’s talk about 3 ways to level up your personal brand!
In the same way that it works for businesses, your brand is what will distinguish you from the competition. It’s the main factor that will position you as a key player in your industry. Your personal brand is vital to your success. Your brand is, quite literally, everything YOU.
Building a great, quality brand takes vision, authenticity, discipline, and a laser-focused understanding of the customers that you seek to attract. Businesses visually communicate their brand with imagery and verbiage, using both to make an impactful and distinct statement about who they are and what they do. When curating your brand, you should strive to do the same by focusing on impeccable business etiquette, communication skills, and of course, personal appearance! (And if you’ve got that down, make sure you know how to prepare for a branding shoot, too!)
Polished Tips: The Top 3 Ways To Level Up Your Personal Brand
- Always dress for the occasion. Before you even open your mouth, you’re already being sized up! Let’s be honest, my friend. Everyone makes judgments when they meet someone for the first time. (Don’t you? I know I do!) People will make an assessment of your professional, socioeconomic, and education levels based simply on what you’re wearing. Did you know it only takes 10 seconds to make a good first impression, and 75% of that is based on how you look? That’s not a lot of time to make it count, so you should always be prepared. When selecting your look for a meeting or event, ask yourself: where am I going? Who will be there? And what kind of outfit is best for this experience?
- Watch your words. Today’s professionals must manage and respond to all types of communication while also representing their organizations and divisions in person AND online. Some industries are more relaxed than others when it comes to communication, so make it your business to understand what is acceptable in yours. What you say – and how you say it – can separate you from the pack in good OR bad ways. Take care to develop your reputation as a class act.
- Always be respectful, no matter what. This advice that my aunt shared with me as a teenager always tops the list. Through words and actions, she taught me the importance of being respectful at home, which in turn taught me how to properly respond publicly and professionally in tough situations. While there was a time when aggressive personalities got the promotions or made the big sale, these days, respect and thoughtfulness are winning! Your merit will shine brighter while you climb when you serve it on a platter of professionalism.
BONUS TIP: ALWAYS ASSUME SOMEONE IS WATCHING.
Even when you don’t think there are any eyes on you, believe me – there are. On several occasions during my professional career, I started getting multiple opportunities seemingly out of the blue. Why? Because senior staff felt I was ready… because they were watching. At the time, I didn’t know anyone was paying attention. I was just showing up as my authentic self. Turns out that my authentic professional image conveyed me as an ambitious, high performer who was poised to advance to the next level!
Whether you’re seeking to get on the fast track at your current company, or to become the face of your own at some point, check in on your personal brand on a regular basis. I advise all of my clients to audit their professional images annually to determine if their current image communicates what they want it to say!
What is your image saying about your brand today? Is it making the right statement? If you need some more guidance, contact me TODAY! Let’s level up how you show up!
