Why everyone need a strong personal brand and how to craft yours
Mark Wright, Regional Marketing Manager at Ecolab has personal experience of this, having transferred from a sales role into the marketing field, meaning he was the perfect candidate to lead our masterclass on how best to craft your personal brand, and why it matters.
The Importance of Your ‘Why’
One of the most important aspects of personal branding is identifying your ‘why,” says Mark. Your ‘why’ is the reason you do what you do, the passion that drives you and holds you true to every decision you make. “A lot of people tell you what they do and how they do it – not a lot of people can say why.” Says Mark, referencing Simon Sinek’s widely viewed TedX talk. Therefore, it’s important to understand and articulate your ‘why’ clearly in your personal brand.
Curating Your Personal Brand
Curating your personal brand can impress recruiters and help land your dream job. “We all hate that interview question, “so tell me a bit about yourself,” but leading with your mission statement ensures there are no awkward pauses and it instantly gives people a flavour of who you are, what you do, and why.” Make sure your brand speaks to your unique strengths, achievements, and values.
What Makes You Different?
What do you offer that sets you apart? What do you do that’s remarkable, measurable, distinguished? “Keep a list of your strengths and achievements handy which can be used for your brand, but also are great for for personal development reviews.” Says Mark.
Credibility is Key
Credibility is the most important thing to consider in a personal brand. Always include measurable examples with your achievements so that the reader knows that you deliver on what you say.
Stay True to Your Values
Your passions, strengths, values, and purpose should all be present in your personal brand. Answering key questions like What sets you apart from your peers? If you were to receive an award, what would it be for? and What three words would your colleagues use to describe you? can really help you draw ideas which you can then craft into your mission statement and brand.
Don’t Write it and Hide it!
Finally, don’t write your brand and hide it away! Ensure that it is visible in your CV, social media profiles, and any other relevant platforms. Let your personal brand speak for you and showcase the unique value you bring.
By identifying your ‘why’ and crafting an authentic and compelling personal brand, you can differentiate yourself and lead conversations about yourself more confidently. Remember to stay true to your values, highlight your unique strengths and achievements, and showcase your brand on relevant platforms.
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