How to Build the Personal Brand You Truly Want

In our last post, we looked at understanding what your colleagues say about you and your personal brand. Now, armed with this information, let’s look at how you can build the personal brand you really want.

Here are a few suggestions to get started.

Own who you are. Your colleagues have a perception of who you are in a business sense. You may not be happy with their perceptions or you may even disagree with them wholeheartedly. However, if you are getting the same feedback consistently, you can’t ignore that this is the view of you that people see.  Look at what you’ve been told. What are the positive aspects? How are these traits manifested in your personal, as well as your professional life? How can you build upon what people think you already do well?

Perceptions evolve and change. Nothing is set in stone. It’s possible to change the way people perceive you, but it means you must have a focused effort to develop a different image. If you’re currently thought of as quiet and slow to make decisions, you’ll need to work hard to show how you can be more engaging, more assertive, and move more decisively. You’ll want to look for opportunities where you can show your ability to move quickly and to command the necessary presence when needed.

Understand what the organization rewards. Is it risk taking or prudent, methodical decision making? Is it creativity or detailed follow through? Focus on those attributes in your personality that mesh with what your organization’s values. It’s not unusual to find aspects of your brand that are better rewarded outside of work. However, if nothing you see yourself standing for is aligned with what your organization’s values, it’s time to look for a new place to work.

Fix the fatal flaws. It’s often best to focus your efforts on building your strengths. However, sometimes there are key areas that can really benefit from extra attention. For example, if the career path you’re on will require good speaking skills and oral communication is a weakness for you, you’ll want to find a way to correct this. Join a Toastmasters Club or volunteer for assignments where you can practice your speaking skills in a safe, non-threatening environment.

-Linda Popky, President, Leverage2Market Associates