3 personal branding tips
You might have read the title and grimaced. I get it. There was a time I definitely would have too. But the truth is, we can't stick our heads in the sand when it comes to our personal brand. Here are three takeaways that may help you flip that frown upside down:
#1: Own your personal brand.
The thing is, you have a personal brand -- whether you know it or not. Your personal brand is your reputation. So if you don't curate your personal brand with intention, people will still draw their own conclusions about you and what you're all about. When it comes to your brand, take matters into your own hands!
Looking back, the steps I took to cultivate my brand were using my voice and putting myself out there. I believe these steps can help anyone find their brand! For example, I became vocal about my career change -- and why it happened -- and was very honest about my fears. I kept sharing stories. Eventually, I created JMT Speaks and put "storyteller" on my business card. What does (or will) yours say?
#2: Identify your unique value proposition.
What makes you different? Chances are, others have your same professional skillset. I am not under the false impression that I'm the only professional speaker out there talking about quieting the imposter voice, saying no, setting boundaries, and extinguishing burnout -- and doing it well.
But think about walking down the sparkling water aisle at the grocery store. There are countless brands. Some people prefer LaCroix, others prefer Waterloo, and some prefer the store brand. They all offer basically the same thing, but we like what we like -- and are loyal to that brand. (Ever get in a Coke vs. Pepsi debate with some? Yikes!)
What makes you different is indeed your brand. My unique value proposition is that no other speaker has my particular style, approach, delivery, and ability to engage the audience using storytelling. It's that special combination that makes me both myself and different from the rest. (And if I were sparkling water, I'd either be a raspberry lime Spindrift or a blood orange San Pellegrino!)
#3: Allow your brand to evolve
Years ago, my brand was "lawyer" or "law firm partner." That was it! As the years passed, my career and life evolved, and as a result, so did my brand. JMT Speaks was born. I was a storyteller! After some time, I realized the common thread running through all my stories: authenticity.
So I changed my logo. If you've been with me for awhile, you may remember the old, handwritten "JMT" in my logo. I rebranded with the pineapple -- the symbol of authenticity -- that analogize in my speaking engagements. I also realized I was drawn to causes, projects, and clients that support and empower women. Today, that work is a critical part of my brand and who I am.
Maybe you have a brand but it doesn't fit or feel right anymore. It may not encompass your life's work or it's not aligned with your sense of self or core values anymore. We evolve and develop gradually, over time, so it only makes sense that as we gain work and life experience, our brand will continue to form. The good news? You can be in charge of shaping it -- so go ahead and stand out!
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