6 Simple, But Overlooked Ways to Build Your Personal Professional Brand
Spend 30 minutes each week to build your personal brand.
Network, grow your personal brand, be successful.
Many of us are guilty of putting all our efforts into our daily professional responsibilities and don’t take the time to invest in ourselves. Obviously job responsibilities are priority, but it’s important to to take the time to also keep up your personal brand image. Here are 6 Key Areas to Build Your Personal Brand at a foundational level from Into the Blue Agency founder, Sharon Patterson.
- Professional Images and Profiles. Today everyone’s a photographer. Either invest in a professional photographer or rely on a talented friend to take a professional image of you that is utlized in your work and personal profile. Especially on company websites and LinkedIn, do not use photos taken in your car, or on vacation, or the “cropped out ex-spouse” image. Put your best face forward when it comes to business.
- Social media. Think about what you post and who you’re connected with. If you’ve watched the news, you realize your personal social media is not that personal, (many have lost jobs, court cases and opportunities based on their social media content). Remember to occasionally look at who you’re connected with in social media and if its of benefit to remain connected with them. Most importantly keep in mind that it’s not truly personal so if you have business connections, they may not be the best to see your political rants or weekend partying. Think twice before you post, clean up or delete old posts… remember some things are not really worth sharing.
- Blog. You’re a professional, share your accomplishments, latest work, new clients or connections and informative insights with others. This is an excellent way to showcase your expertise.
- Use LinkedIn for many of its great networking features. LinkedIn is a business networking social platform, unlike all other social media. Use a professional image, have an honest and thorough bio, make sure your bio is free of typos and poor grammar, keep it current, build connections with like minded people, select valuable groups to join for insights, tips and to contribute, endorse others, request endorsements. LinkedIn can be very powerful if you’re in sales, business ownership and business development especially. Take advantage of the ProFinder to seek professional companies and individuals offering services you need.
- Network and Share It. Whatever your profession, get involved in key organizations that will benefit from your involvement and expertise. Don’t just get involved, stand out. Whether you join the Chamber of Commerce, an
- Industry Association or select key charities, contribute your time and talents; share this with the world via blogs, LinkedIn and otherwise. It’s a great way to build your brand, network and showcase your talents in a meaningful and beneficial way.
- Ask for references and recommendations from colleagues, vendors and clients. Nothing will speak as effectively as an authentic reference on your talents, abilities and expertise as the voice of others who have benefited from working with you.
By increasing your personal and professional value, your career and company will benefit. Learn more at www.intotheblueagency.com.