This is how you can leverage the power of social media for personal branding
The times when it was acceptable to have your pet as your profile photo and a movie quote in your bio are over. I mean, you can still do it, but it’s not the smartest thing to do, especially if you are very active online. We all have social media accounts and use them every day. Are we showcasing ourselves in the best light? Should we? Social media has allowed us to create a certain image of ourselves online. Why not make the best of it and use it for personal branding?
Personal branding is very important, not only for those working in the digital world, but for all of us. Everyone should be able to know how to represent themselves online in the best way possible.
Follow these few simple tips to help you achieve that:
Profile photo matters
It’s important to have a high-quality profile photo. Make sure you look the best you can, since this is how people who have never seen you will remember you. Also, bonus points if you’re smiling. It makes you seem more friendly and approachable. People like the photos of people who are smiling. Definitely do not put a photo of your cat as your profile photo.
Consistency is key
Have the same username on all social media platforms. Keep it clean. It will make it easier for people to find you even if they do not know your username on every social media. Since it will be the same on all platforms, they will find you easily. Related to that, use the same profile photo. Of course, some social media platforms require a different type of a profile photo. For example, you might not want to have the same profile photo on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Do not be afraid to show your personality
We are all different. Showcase your personal style on social media and do not be afraid to do so. You won’t get anywhere looking like someone else. Find your style and express it. The right people will love you for that.
Create your own portfolio
Social media platforms like Instagram allow creatives to show their talent easily to the world. Use your account like a portfolio to showcase the work you’ve done. With that, your profile is only a click away from the right person who needs to see it. Be creative about the layout, colors, style of photos or anything else. Just be yourself.
Be aware of your activity
Everything you do or say on social media is public and can be seen one way or another. Be aware of that and think twice before posting content.
Make improvements
Work on yourself and your social media accounts regularly. Update them. Use them to motivate you to be better. However, do not compare yourself to others. We are all different and have different lives that can’t be compared. You’re on your own journey.
The power of LinkedIn
LinkedIn has more power than you think. It’s a great social media platform to showcase your business success and business life in general. Your LinkedIn profile is basically your CV. Edit your profile and update it regularly. Add all your education, skills and past experiences. Make sure your profile photo is professional. Become a member of some relevant groups for your industry. Network.
Focus on few social media platforms
Choose few social media platforms which suit your style and the type of content you enjoy sharing the most. Work hard on creating content for those social media platforms. Of course, if you have the time, you can create content for several different social media platforms, but it is the best to focus on few that are the most important to you.
Set up a plan
Don’t just post everything that comes to your mind, unless that’s your plan. Create a plan and stick to it, it will help you stay consistent. Also, it will help make your style clear. Choose how you want to be seen and create and post content that showcases that. This will also help you build an audience.
Use hashtags
Use relevant and appropriate hashtags. Research a bit. See which hashtags people in your industry are using. Create your own hashtag formula and use it. One example of a good hashtag practice is using few general hashtags that are widely used and a few that are less used. However, don’t overdo it. There IS such thing as too many hashtags.
Get inspired
Find someone you look up to and follow their work. Be inspired. Recognize what’s working for them and apply it to yourself. Read a lot, keep track of the trends in your industry, and aspire to learn something new every day.
That’s it, good luck and have fun looking professional online!
