Quick Shots for #HR and #Business Pros – Personal Branding Edition
Sometimes I am amazed at the things I read on the internet. I’m sure you are too. You read a quote and say to yourself, “They said what?!” And I’m not even talking about political candidates. Just like we say a company brand paints a picture of what the organization is like, well, a personal brand tells people what we’re like.
Our brand needs to be authentic. But being authentic doesn’t mean we cannot occasionally use a filter. The essence of our personal brand is understanding “What Do You Want to be Known for?” When those moments arise and we say to ourselves, “Should I weigh in on this conversation?” I always ask myself first, “Is this what I want to be known for?”
In the age of social media, it’s important for us to remember that our personal brand extends to the digital space. Even if someone isn’t actively using social media, that says something about them. I love this interview with Heather Bussing on “Who Owns Your Social Brand?”
If you’re looking for a resource to develop your personal brand, PwC Creates Personal Brand Experience for Students is a good place to start. While the post is focused on students, I think the information can apply to anyone. Another great resource is the Career Sherpa blog.
Lastly, if you’re saying to yourself, I would really like to change my personal brand. This interview “Changing Your Personal Brand: Expert Interview with Amanda Hite and Dan Schawbel” might give you some ideas. We change as individuals all the time. Our brand should change with us.
I know some people might dismiss the value of personal branding. I think of it as a calling card. There’s no right way or wrong way to develop your personal brand. The bottom-line is you have to be comfortable with the perception it creates.
Image taken by Sharlyn Lauby at Fork and Balls in Fort Lauderdale
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