How to Develop a Personal Brand

What is a personal brand?

A personal brand is what you project to the world. It is how others view you, it is your motivation and aspirations, it is your style and the way you communicate, it is your ethics and values, and ultimately the different parts that make you ‘You’. It is not just what you do in your career, it is a combination of all these factors, as well as how you perceive the world and how the world perceives you.

Why should you care about Personal Brand?

What is the difference between Nike and a lesser known sports company? The difference is that Nike is a strong brand. It is a brand with a message, with a community and unique style. It is different. That is why so many people choose Nike over other brands and vice versa.

What sort of brand do you want to be? Do you want to have a personal brand that is strong and visible? Or one that is unknown? Whether you know what it is or not, you already have a brand. The best thing you can do as early as possible in your career (or college life) is to know what your brand is and manage it accordingly. If you don’t know what it is, ask your peers, family members, and colleagues. You can start by asking people who know you: What is your brand in their eyes? Do people perceive you in a way that you want them to perceive you? Are you consistent with your brand across your personal and professional lives? If yes, great, keep working on it. If not, then it is time to re-introduce yourself with your improved brand.

(Tip: You can create an anonymous survey and send it out to your network).

By understanding your personal brand, you will have a better idea of who you are, what to focus on, and what you aim to achieve in your life. You will also recognize which areas need improvement. People with strong brands are clear about who they are. They know and maximize their strengths. You can leverage your brand in your professional and personal lives.

How to better understand your personal brand? Start by asking yourself the following questions:

• What gives you energy?
• What do people come to you to seek advice for?
• What are you known for?
• What do you want to be known for?
• What comes naturally to you?
• What are your top values?
• What is the mark you wish to leave on the world?

Your fellow students or peers and others you will meet in college and during your career will all create an image about you once they meet you. What do you want that image to be?