There’s more to your personal brand than what you say in your elevator pitch or in your career marketing materials, whether they’re written, digital, or online. You differentiate yourself from your peers based on the combination of your attributes, values, drivers, strengths, and passions. Your personal brand helps people know who you are and what makes you special. Here are some tips to help you define and showcase your unique brand:
Why are you here? What goal are you working towards? Think about how you want to change the world or help people. This is your vision. Then think about how your skills and experience can help make that vision a reality.
What principles guide you? Things like honesty, teamwork, or challenge could be your values. Think about what matters most to you.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time and at work? Your passions are things that energize you like certain hobbies, topics, or activities. See how your passions connect with your strengths.
Set some targets. Where do you want your career to be in 1, 2, or 5 years from now? Map out steps to reach those goals.
What words describe you best? Consider adjectives like creative, fun-loving, or hard-working to define your personality and values.
Ask for feedback too. People who know you can share their thoughts on your strengths and brand.
Analyze your options. Do a SWOT analysis to look at your Strengths, Weaknesses, and Opportunities compared to any Threats in your field.
Tailor your message. Decide who you want to impress like certain roles or industries. Learn what matters most to these people. Without a target audience, it’s as if you’re talking to no one when trying to talk to everyone.
Stand out from the crowd. See what others competing for the same jobs offer and highlight what makes you unique. Highlight what you bring to the table.
Taking the time to understand your personal brand will help you market yourself to future employers and get the jobs you want. Believe in your unique strengths and gifts to build a brand people respect.
