What Is A Personal Brand And Why Do I Need One?

Having a strong personal brand across paper and multiple interviewers will set you apart from the pack.

Having a well-crafted personal brand allows the job seeker to market themselves in a way that makes them stand out. You have to know what your personal brand is if you are going to thrive – especially in this new job market. There is so much noise to cut through. As the internet has allowed jobs to be posted faster and viewed globally, there has been an increase in the volume of candidates that apply. You might be one of three-hundred competing for the same job! This is why personal brand is so important.

Curating a personal brand will give you instant recognition both on paper and with multiple interviewers at a company. What is brand, you ask? Seth Godin taught me that “brand” is building something that matters with a story people care about. You buy into specific brands because you care about them. It brings meaning and gives you a sense of belonging. Brands build trust and credibility. The same goes for your personal brand! Your brand allows people to see who you are and see how your story might become a part of theirs.

The number one place we encourage our clients to lean into their personal brand is on their LinkedIn profile – particularly in the “About Me” section. This section should be a first person narrative answering the following questions:
 

• What do you really enjoy doing professionally?
• What motivates you to perform your work in your role? What are your driving forces?
• What do you believe to be your strengths?
• What difference would you like to make to your future employer?

Your answers to these questions should give you a hearty “about me” section where people can learn more about who you are and where you want to go.

If you are not sure where to start with your personal brand, try filling out your personal brand board. This can be a great guide to forming a cohesive and unique brand which will carry over into your LinkedIn, resume, and life. If you haven’t already, get started on it this week and see where it takes you!