Article Written for Newton Leaders – A career consultancy
Personal branding has many interpretations, yet Jeff Bezos’s definition resonates deeply with me: “Personal brand is what people say about you when you leave the room.”
Often, personal branding is mistakenly equated with having an online presence or being a thought leader. However, personal branding encompasses far more.
It is built through interactions with customers, colleagues, leaders, partners, and competitors. Every interaction contributes to the foundation of our personal brand, reflecting our influence and impact.
Our personal brand is shaped when we demonstrate humility, empathy, and vulnerability—whether it’s stepping back to learn, taking responsibility, or supporting others in their time of need. Developing our online presence and engaging in thought leadership should not distort reality but rather serve as tools to enhance our personal brand. This approach not only expands our reach but also allows us to express our values, skills, and unique stories on a broader canvas.
The most inspiring and enduring thought leaders are those who remain authentic, aligning their online personas with their real-life actions. They engage passionately with issues that mirror their values and struggles, ensuring their thought leadership is a true reflection of themselves. When thought- leadership aligns with a genuine personal brand, the effort becomes sustainable, and the outcomes are likely to meet our intentions. This journey requires significant investment—time to share knowledge, courage to be open, and a generous spirit. Therefore, being intentional about both the effort and its outcomes is crucial. Whether the goals are business or personal, as long as they are well-defined and regularly evaluated, the endeavor is worthwhile.
Before diving into content creation, consider establishing a personal brand framework. This involves introspection to define your purpose, values, strengths, expertise, milestones, personality, and tone of voice. Such preparation helps in targeting the right audience, creating relevant content pillars, and setting up feedback mechanisms. Ideally, undertake this process with a certified coach who can guide you through self-discovery. Understanding oneself, our role, and how we fit in is half the battle won when it comes to thought-leadership.
Remember, this is not a race. Move at a pace that suits you, and stay focused on your desired outcomes.
Photo by Patrik Michalicka on Unsplash