How to build the foundation of a strong personal brand?
– From message to influence –
In a society where every message we want to deliver is only one click away from the rest of the world, the personal image is essential.
What this image implies and what kind of messages we send through it, these are topics that have been described to detail. What I want to highlight, from my point of view, are the pillars on which we can build the personal brand.
What do we deliver/design?
Whatever we want, if we do this consciously and with liability; otherwise, the way we look, how we behave, what we say, or what we post online is a message.
Why would we consciously work to shape the personal brand?
Because a strong personal brand will give you confidence and increase your self-esteem; indirectly, it will help you to develop the skills that will bring you closer to achieving your goal, whether we speak of the much-wanted job, the desired promotion, the ideal couple relationship, or the network of valuable people with whom you want to spend your time, etc.
By what means?
By any image, hashtag#, post, vlog, meeting, conversation, attire, gesture, etc. we deliver a message. Be present and consciously deliver YOUR message, the authentic one!
When?
In any moment of your life. The permanent connection and visibility to which we are exposed with the help of current technology “forces” us to find ourselves in the “spotlight” more often than we would want, regardless we speak of an office meeting, a speech at an event, or a simple post on one of the social networks. It is never too late to transform, refine, or update the personal brand. Any moment is perfect for undertaking it with responsibility.
Before actually sending our message to the world, we have to know ourselves to the slightest detail. If you want to run on the speed band and accomplish your goal faster, you could get in contact with a couch that would uncover and debate these secrets with you. Otherwise, you can discover them on your own by trials and exercise.
- Embrace and value authenticity.
It is ok to shape ourselves according to circumstances or interlocutors; however, the “amendment” we make has to be relatively small, as we must remain honest with our authentic self.
- Be aware of your own image, the message delivered, and how others perceive you.
Observe yourself in various situations, note down your reactions, attitude, and thoughts. Ask feedback and set up maximum one feature to consistently focus on for at least a couple of months.
- Discover or develop your super-power. Start from where you want, professionally or personally, but dot the i’s and cross the t’s and put it to work. Is your biggest asset your nice voice or storytelling? That’s perfect! If it is a transferable skill – from professional to professional and vice versa – like this one, you double win! Just think how easy it will be to send or emphasize a message in a business presentation, only by the strength of your super-power… it’s just as simple as telling a story to your child. 🙂
- Create value by what you say/do. Associate with people like you. Bring value through “content”, value others, as well, and help them to become better. This way, your brand will improve alongside them. What makes you strong and one of a kind? Tell us! Sharing is caring 🙂
- Show the value of your personality. Your expertise is essential, but the person behind it is the key. YOU. With your personality and interplay, you will establish contacts and sign contracts. We are impressed and driven by results, but we always connect with the “person.” Show yourself!
- Prove consistency and be consequent! Once you hit this road, do not step back. Go on and discipline yourself in delivering your message, periodically. Accustom your online or offline audience with precise timing that you can follow. What does it say about you? That you are responsible, disciplined, and reliable.
- Evaluate/Re-evaluate your core values and stay faithful to them. Start thinking about what are your most significant aspects, what are your most burning aspirations, and what are the things that you could never cross over. Is intransigence/consideration one of your values? Respect to be respected or ask for it if you acted by your values and standards. Is freedom one of your values? In this case, ask yourself if your life is currently founded on this value. If not, what limits your freedom and violates this value?
- Define your personal style and image. Your style is your signature. You can build it and improve it continuously. If you get to be recognized for your expressions, the way you dress, or how you complete tasks, you can say you have a stylistic signature. Do not forget to sign wherever you go! 🙂
Long story short, to build your brand means getting to know yourself, which isn’t as easy as it may sound. That is why maybe the biggest secret you have to acquire is not walking this way on your own.