Creating Your Personal Brand
The world of work has evolved to the point where we are all our own promotional agencies. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, corporate leader, or early-career professional, your ability to position yourself as an expert with a unique point of view can determine your visibility, influence, and career trajectory.
Establishing a platform that extends your expertise beyond your immediate sphere of influence is no longer optional, it’s essential.
Is it difficult? Not really, but it does require a shift in perspective. You’ll need to turn the magnifying glass on yourself to clearly define your value proposition and commit to an ongoing investment of time, focus, and resources.
Can you do it alone? Technically, yes. You have the skills, the tools, and the experience. But the smartest approach is to work with at least one trusted adviser, ideally someone outside your immediate circle who can give honest, constructive feedback. This could be a career coach, a strategist, or a mentor with a vested interest in your success.
Here are six steps to get started:
Define What Makes You Different
Write down three to five career attributes that set you apart from others in your field. Think about your unique mix of experiences, results you’ve achieved, and perspectives you bring. Ask yourself: If someone introduced me on stage tomorrow, what would I want them to say?
Identify Your Target Audience
Who needs to know about you? Industry peers? Decision-makers in a specific sector? The more precisely you define your audience, the easier it will be to tailor your content, select the right platforms, and measure impact.
Build Your Digital Platform
Your platform isn’t just LinkedIn. It may include newsletters, podcasts, niche online communities, or even private member groups. Audit your current digital presence and identify gaps. Focus on channels where your audience is most active and where you can consistently show up.
Join and Lead the Conversation
Start by engaging with others: share, comment, and add perspective to existing discussions. Curate high-quality articles and offer your own take on trends. Once you’ve built confidence and a following, begin publishing your own insights, think original articles, videos, or data-backed opinions.
Create High-Value Content
Content still reigns supreme but attention spans are shorter, so clarity and value matter more than ever. Offer practical tips, lessons learned, or trend analysis that’s relevant to your audience. Experiment with formats: short videos, carousel posts, and interactive polls can amplify reach.
Go Beyond the Screen
Don’t underestimate the power of offline visibility. Apply to speak at conferences, pitch yourself for industry panels, or host workshops. Virtual events are still valuable, but in-person opportunities often create deeper, longer-lasting connections.