A lot has been made of the importance of personal brand in today’s digitally-led business world, but why does it matter? Why should you set aside time, energy and effort to get it right?
Personally, I have always been deliberate about building, maintaining and evolving my personal brand. For me, it’s been innate and something I’ve focused on since high school. But for many it can be unnatural, an afterthought, lapsed or misunderstood. Most people who are against the premise often end up, over time, realizing it’s criticality to career success. Don’t find yourself playing catch-up when the need for a personal brand inevitably calls.
Here are five core reasons you should focus on your business oriented social profiles (LinkedIn, Twitter, Medium/Blog, AngelList, CrunchBase, Personal Website & Email, etc.) to drive personal brand, as they are the foundation and megaphone for the truest and most important thing to market — YOU!
- Career Narrative / Story Arc — Can you articulate your resume/CV in a meaningful and connected way? Do the moves you make make sense?
- Relevance — Are you current, dynamic, fluid and on point? In your company, speciality, function, interests or industry?
- Networking — Are you extending your reach and leveraging your contacts? Do they really know YOU? Do you know THEM?
- Diversification— Are you well rounded in your business pursuits? Or are you a one trick pony?
- Pride — Do you feel intrinsic passion and happiness in your career? Are you confident enough to share that with the world?
I always say to be loyal and play the long-game. How are you ensuring you’re maximizing personal brand for the greatest career results? Share your thoughts.
I’ve also written similar more holistic advice on SocialMediaToday about personal brand: Update Your Ambition Every 6 Months and 20 Other Pieces of Career Advice
