The term “personal brand” means different things to different people.
Think of your brand as how people think and feel about your company. It should instantly communicate your personality and unique value, and set you apart from everyone else.
Here is where a lot of people get stuck. Everyone tells you that you have to create a unique and compelling brand. And you have probably been trying to figure out what your brand is all about and how you can make it unique and different.
Here’s the truth ….
You are already a brand. And this brand of YOU is 100% unique. You can try all you like, you won’t find anything more unique than YOU! All you need to do is embrace YOU, get clear on your message and learn to communicate that message. That’s what authentic branding is all about.
Here are some success tips to stand out online with your brand and message.
1. Do a Reality Check
- It’s important to understand how you’re currently perceived
- Know the real reasons clients work with you – if you don’t know, ask!
- Does your marketing reinforce your uniqueness?
2. Don’t Get Distracted by the Frills
- Your logo, colors, banner, etc. are the visual representation of your brand
- Don’t get caught up on design. Figure out your message first and the emotional connection you want to make with people
- The look and feel of your brand is about communicating that emotional connection and who you are
- Learn from others but don’t get caught up in trying to emulate others or put on a persona. At best you’ll just blend in, at worst you won’t be trusted
- Be fully expressed in what you do and don’t worry about what people will think about you. The right ones will be attracted to you – quirks and all
- Your brand is the sum total of everything you put out in the world – every article you write, video you create, social media profile, etc.
- You want a create an authentic and consistent experience in all your touch points, with the same look and feel on all your online platforms
- Building a brand is about sharing your message and communications should always be two-way
- Ask questions and invite interaction — through social media, blog posts, emails, etc.
- Don’t shout your message to the world. Engage with people in a meaningful way
I think I am doing okay with those five things right now. I just wish that I could dedicate a ton of time to blogging. I have so much to say about everything in my niche, but not enough time to say it. 🙁
Good for you Angie! Blogging definitely takes time. I like to prepare a bunch of blog posts at once while the creative juices are flowing, and then post them one at a time. Thanks for sharing!
Right on target. My post yesterday was on Exposing your Secret. – It might be your perfect brand. (You know the kind of secret you don’t mention at a party with strangers – I’m a dog lover, I really like ballroom dancing. etc.)
Thanks for sharing.
Dr. Hale
Thanks for stopping by Dr. Hale. I tend to be pretty transparent, although we all have our little secrets:)
warm wishes,
Cindy
Great post and very informative. I am going to apply these 5 tips. This post came at the right time.
I’m so glad Retha – I look forward to hearing back from you as to how it’s going in applying these tips. Thanks for stopping by and sharing!
warm wishes,
Cindy
The thing about the frills is true. I’ve known people who design all their marketing materials before they’ve had a chance to get to know themselves as well as their clients. Take some time out to think about who you are and what you do and the visual representation comes quite naturally.
For instance, I am operating design and marketing in my local town. I’m actually involved in local politics to some degree and contribute to the community in many ways. I operate free services that serve as a loss leader for business.
My town is a very run down place with boarded up shops etc – our local council are always struggling for money and I think it’s up to people such as myself to do what they can for others . We are the largest town in England with no train station. We need it bad, so I designed a website as a campaign and personally contacted local businesses and Councillors (political reps) to contribute to the site. It has really helped in the way I engage with others because I am not particularly trying to sell people all the time. They feel more like buying from me.
This is not a persona or insincere act. I realised a while ago that i am being perceived in a certain way. I cannot therefore talk left and walk right.
Thanks for sharing that Darren. You’ve shared a great example of relationship marketing. And as you noted so well, those relationships have to be sincere and rooted in your values. Thanks again!
Cindy