4 Easy Ways to Build A Personal Brand.

Building a personal brand.

Many people think talking highly of themselves is arrogant or self-indulgent. Nothing could be further from the truth. Whether starting a business, getting ahead in your career, or monetizing your hobby, you need serious and intentional self-promotion.

Self-promotion only gets a bad reputation when it comes across as insincere or inauthentic. If you are only interested in making a sale or closing a deal, your prospects will sense it and back away. You make better strides when you offer value and are authentic.

It is a delicate dance that you must master. Gone are the days when you relied on your work to speak for itself. Today, you need to echo the same to anyone who will listen. Here are four easy ways to build a personal brand.

1. Be Unique.

The beauty of life is that we are all similar, yet very different. Even identical twins have subtle differences that tell them apart. Those discrepancies set us apart. They make us unique.

Ironically, what we think makes us weird is what exalts us. It could be your quirkiness, bubbly personality, or excellent work ethic. They help make up your identity, so lean on them while building a brand or a business.

Don’t get lost in the rabbit hole of trying to be like everyone else. Your uniqueness is the salt and pepper that makes your broth spicy and delicious. Similarly, find your definition of success and align every thought, goal, and action towards it. This way, you will always be true to yourself, no matter what happens.

2. Listen More Than You Speak.

Most people who attend networking events want to maximize every interaction. They come equipped with business cards, well-rehearsed introductions and briefs about themselves. Driven by the strong desire to close a deal as fast as possible.

However, the most impactful way to build relationships is by listening. A good listener always leaves a lasting impression on people. Ask thoughtful questions and engage in meaningful conversations. As a result, you will build a rapport based on professional interests.

Don’t just dish out business cards; collect them! And when they talk, listen attentively. You can offer a solution to their issues and have a solid ground for follow-up conversations. When you understand other people’s needs, you position yourself as a valuable connection.

3. Maximize Social Media.

Social Media is good for more than sharing funny videos; it is an essential marketing tool. It is a powerful branding tool. A strong online presence helps establish your expertise and authority in your field.

Begin with evaluating your current use of social media. You may need a separate account depending on your goal and purpose. Then, you can keep posting your personal life and goofy posts on a personal account.

For a strong personal brand, you must keep your accounts professional. Thus, have similar imagery, videos, content, and posts on all social media platforms. Remember, you are consciously trying to manage and enhance how others perceive you.

You can talk about your life or become a thought leader in a particular field. Either way, you will need to be consistent to achieve desired results. And the more authentic you are, your brand will be better and more sustainable.

4. Offer Value Every Time You Speak.

It is crucial to offer value every time you speak to other people. However, for a smooth and productive interaction, you require ground rules. First, don’t abruptly interrupt a conversation and begin giving your opinion. Read the room first. Listen. Then, build on the topic with your opinion when the opportunity arises.

Also, be mindful of the context of the conversation. If the discussion is sensitive, be aware of all groups of people despite personal regards. While at it, consider your brand and what it represents or aims to present and align yourself with it.

Be genuine while you talk. Don’t just recite things you have heard before. Also, look at the people you are talking to and take their cues. Express yourself in a believable manner. And offer valuable insights that build connections rather than toot your horn.

What steps will you take today to build a personal brand? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. ♥