Putting together a personal brand has never been more important than it is at the moment. Any person who has access to the internet and social media is able to build an audience, position themselves as an expert, and then start interesting clients for their business. And that’s precisely what a lot of people are doing.
A study by Upwork showed that the freelance workforce is increasing at a rate three times faster than the general workforce in the U.S. By 2027, freelancers are expected to constitute the majority of the U.S. workforce.
While it’s fantastic to see that so many people are embracing their entrepreneurial spirit, this also means that each and every self-employed freelancer, independent contractor, as well as entrepreneur, will soon face more competition as opposed to what they already do. The fundamental aspect of distinguishing yourself from your competition is developing a personal brand.
What Is A Personal Brand? Why Is It Important?
A personal brand can be demarcated as the total experience of someone having a relationship with who you are in addition to what you represent. It’s like a personal trademark which informs and guides how you conduct yourself so that you can deliver the “experience of you”.
Your personal brand needs to represent the value you are able to deliver consistently to those who you are serving. It is not about self-promotion; however built on the value you deliver to others in your leadership role.
Keep Your Personal Brand Streamlined
There’s a lot which makes you unique. In addition, it can be hard to narrow down your focus however too many elements up front can become distracting. Ideally, a person should be able to get a snapshot of who you are and how you will fit into their project or workplace right immediately. Fill them in on the details over coffee once you have your foot in the door.
If you’re not really sure where to begin, ask a friend to tell you about what they thought when they first met you. Is it what you expected? Why did you come across that way? Through writing down what you’re doing right and wrong, it will be much simpler to put together a thoughtful and genuine plan.
Your personal brand should come through clearly and consistently in your permanent publications: Your LinkedIn profile, business cards, cover letter and CV should work together in order to support the qualities that you want people to see most strongly in you.
