I hosted a personal brand masterclass in New York recently. The audience was split in two: those who are proactively building a reputation in their industry, and those who didn’t think they needed a personal brand.
Whichever camp you fall into, one thing is clear: taking time to build your personal brand will lead to more professional opportunities. Whether you’re looking to increase sales in your business or land a new job, there is no time to blend in. You have to do everything you can to stand out and become known for your expertise.
5 Things You Must Do to Build Your Personal Brand
#1 Become a Thought Leader
Sharing other people’s content across social media will only get you so far. Have you noticed how your favorite experts always have their own unique perspective? The real winners are those consistently putting their voice out there. Think about the industry points of view you can share with the world.
#2 Look Good Online
A clear, consistent online and offline identity is crucial. Professional photography, clear messaging and a standout brand will boost your credibility. I’ve seen this with my own clients. The moment they revamp their brand to a more professional look, more opportunities come flooding in. With so much noise in the online world, think about what you can do to be remembered.
#3 Add Value
Focus on consistently giving value to your community as a way to build the all important know, like and trust factor. Gary Vaynerchuk often talks about the importance of ‘jab, jab, jab, right hook,’ meaning give immense value before asking for the sale. No-one likes a pushy salesperson, so always prioritize giving value above anything else.
#4 Be Your Own Publicist
Newspapers, magazines, TV, podcasts – any kind of media coverage will help establish you as an authority. In my free ‘5 Steps to Stand Out In Your Industry’ guide, publicity is one of the key points covered because it really can take you to a global audience.
#5 Partner
Collaborating with others in your niche is a strategic way to take your brand to the next level. Not only will partnerships give you access to a bigger audience; you’ll also build a strong support network.
The world as we know it is changing fast. Those that get ahead will have taken the time to build a recognizable personal brand.
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