Do You Have a Personal Brand?

We are often asked how an individual can brand themselves and if personal branding is as valuable as corporate branding. Personal branding can single an individual out as an expert in their field, but are there downfalls to personal branding vs. company branding?

Truth is personal branding is easier than company branding. Why? Because if you believe in your talent, skills and ability – it’s easier to sell what you believe in. Your image is already created and now you just have to market it. How do you market yourself? That’s easy. You must become a pro in your industry and an expert in your field.

With that said are there downfalls to personal branding? Absolutely. Unless you plan to work forever, it will be difficult to transition the brand to someone else. After all you are the brand. If you are alright with the fact that in order to transition out of the brand you will need to create a new one that your consumers can grasp onto then personal branding may just be for you.

When branding yourself remember that you must create a strong and consistent brand. You cannot skimp just because it’s about you. Strong brands are clear about who they are and what they are not; which is why branding yourself can be an easy process. You already know who you are and what you are not. Strong brands are also consistent; it’s easy to be consistent in who you are. By branding yourself effectively you will:

• Establish yourself as an expert in your chosen field.
• Build a solid reputation within your industry.
• Increase your notoriety and improve your perceived value in the marketplace.

The key to successfully branding yourself and doing it effectively is to first establish a personal brand identity. Once you have done that focus that message on who you are and what you stand for within your chosen field. Your final step is to get the word out through a variety of media channels that are viewed by the people most likely to be interested in your message.

People will begin to see your name and become aware of the benefit and knowledge that you offer. Before you know it, people will not only know who you are but they will begin to seek out your services and expertise. They will identify with your brand which is you.