A no-nonsense guide for busy professionals
Your personal brand: Does everyone need one?
Paula Fleming, CMSO, discusses personal brand and provides a no-nonsense guide for busy professionals . (July 8, 2024)
The phrase "personal brand" is everywhere these days. But what does it really mean? And more importantly, do you need to worry about it? If you're like many of us, the idea of building a personal brand might feel like another daunting task on your already overflowing to-do list.
Truth be told, not everyone needs to be the next social media influencer. Your personal brand doesn't have to be a flashy spectacle. But whether you realize it or not, you already have a personal brand. It's the impression you leave on others, the value you bring, and the way you differentiate yourself.
So, where do you start?
If you haven't focused on your personal brand before, don't worry – it's never too late to begin. Here's a simplified approach:
Self-reflection: What are your strengths, values, and passions? What makes you unique? What do you want to be known for? Take some time to think about these questions and jot down your answers.
Define your audience: Who do you want to connect with? Are you targeting potential clients, employers, collaborators, or a broader community? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your message and focus your efforts.
Craft your story: Your personal brand is your story. What experiences, challenges, and triumphs have shaped you? What are your aspirations? Share your story authentically and let it resonate with your audience.
Choose your platforms: You don't need to be everywhere. Focus on the platforms where your audience spends their time. LinkedIn is great for professionals, while Twitter is ideal for sharing thoughts and insights. If you're visually inclined, consider Instagram or Pinterest.
Start creating content: Share your expertise, insights, and experiences through articles, blog posts, videos, or social media updates. Don't be afraid to experiment with different formats to find what works best for you.
Is a personal brand industry-specific or level-of-experience specific?
While a personal brand can be beneficial for anyone, it's particularly important for those in certain fields, such as:
Entrepreneurs: A strong personal brand can help you attract investors, customers, and partners.
Professionals in competitive industries: A well-defined brand can help you stand out from the crowd and land your dream job.
Thought leaders: If you want to share your expertise and influence others, a strong personal brand is essential.
However, even if you're not in one of these fields, building your personal brand can still open doors, create opportunities, and help you achieve your goals.
My experience as a leader
As a leader, I've seen firsthand the power of a strong personal brand. By sharing my experiences, insights, and values, I've been able to connect with like-minded individuals, build trust with my team, and attract new opportunities.
I've focused on creating authentic content that resonates with my audience, and I've made a conscious effort to engage with others on social media. While it hasn't always been easy, the effort has been well worth it.
Actionable items for you:
Start small: Don't feel overwhelmed. Begin with one platform and focus on creating high-quality content.
Be consistent: Share content regularly to stay top of mind with your audience.
Engage with others: Respond to comments, ask questions, and participate in discussions.
Be authentic: Don't try to be someone you're not. Let your personality shine through.
Remember, building your personal brand is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and consistency. But by taking those first steps, you're already on your way to unlocking new opportunities and achieving your goals.
New England leaders excelling at personal branding:
Linda Henry, CEO of Boston Globe Media: Henry has embraced her role as a leader in the media industry, using her platform to advocate for quality journalism and community engagement. Her LinkedIn profile showcases her accomplishments, industry insights, and commitment to social impact.
Andrew Dreyfus, Former CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts: Dreyfus is a prominent voice in healthcare, frequently sharing his perspectives on LinkedIn and Twitter. He's known for his focus on innovation, affordability, and patient-centered care.
Sheena Collier, Founder and CEO of Boston While Black: Collier's personal brand is all about empowerment and connection. She uses social media and events to build a strong community for Black professionals in Boston, demonstrating the power of niche branding.
Michael Bastian, Co-Founder and CEO of Mainvest: Bastian effectively uses LinkedIn to share his expertise on community-driven investing and economic development. His posts are informative, engaging, and reflect his passion for supporting small businesses.
Jody Rose, President of the New England Venture Capital Association (NEVCA): Rose leverages her role at NEVCA to champion diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. She's an active presence on LinkedIn, sharing insights and promoting the work of underrepresented founders.
These are just a few examples of New England leaders who are effectively building their personal brands. They demonstrate the power of authenticity, consistent communication, and a focus on providing value to their audience.
Key takeaways from these leaders:
Authenticity: Be yourself. Share your experiences, values, and passions in a way that feels true to you.
Value: Provide your audience with valuable insights, information, or entertainment.
Consistency: Regularly share content and engage with your audience to stay top of mind.
Niche focus: Consider specializing in a specific area to differentiate yourself and build expertise.
Platform strategy: Choose the platforms where your audience spends their time and tailor your content accordingly.
By learning from these successful leaders, you can gain inspiration and valuable insights for building your own personal brand. Remember, personal branding is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and dedication, but the rewards are well worth it.
