How to create and polish a personal brand?
What comes into your mind when you think of MDH (a very renowned Indian spice brand)? Most probably the image of its founder Mr. Mahashay Dharampal Gulati, right? MDH is one of those few companies that have managed to create a personal brand effectively. This is the major reason behind its success; no wonder it has had a long career of 93 years! As Wikipedia defines it, “Personal branding is the conscious and intentional effort to create and influence public perception of an individual by positioning them as an authority in their industry, elevating their credibility, and differentiating themselves from the competition, to ultimately advance their career, increase their circle of influence, and have a larger impact.”
Building a personal brand is essential to every business (whether big or small) in order to have a distinct identity among the competitors. Although there is much more to a personal brand, its essence revolves around a pivotal figure that represents the brand, holds accountability for it and builds goodwill among the common folk. Let us see how to create a personal brand that pays dividends:
Define your niche
The trickiest thing is to understand where to start. Begin by defining your niche. Keep refining and redefining your niche until you find out what resonates with your vision. Try keeping your niche as narrow as possible in the beginning so that your content, your products (or services), social media handles- everything has the same feel. You can broaden it later but be specific while setting off.
Obliterate the distinction between personal and professional
You need to possess high intrapersonal knowledge to take your brand to a height. Your personal brand is a reflection of your own life. Make sure to have a positive outlook, high ideals, inspiring lifestyle and integrity in personal life too. Besides working on the growth of your business, you have to work on your personal growth as well. Your brand values should be a part of your life.
Devise a video that narrates your brand message
Every brand must have a short 1-minute video handy to narrate your story. While at conferences or informal meetings, you should not leave without introducing your business through a powerfully aesthetic elevator pitch. Think of what message you want to convey through it before you Create a personal brand.
Some additional tips:
- Be consistent with the content.
- Be authentic, genuine and original.
- Meet other successful brand owners.
- Interview brand strategists.
After building a personal brand, the next challenge is to polish it. Here are some tips to help you refine your brand:
Optimize your brand identity
Brand identity consists of the visual elements of the brand. The logo, title, tagline etc must display professionalism. If your brand identity is weak, chances are you won’t be able to grow as a brand.
Don’t fear the failures
You all are aware that in the process of growing, failures are bound to happen. But still, the fear of failure holds you back from making life-changing decisions. Bernard Kelvin Clive, an international author and brand strategist, suggests embracing failure. A great piece of art is created only when you fail, learn and recreate. Don’t fear the process.
Networking is the key
Building a network and having professional acquaintances is always vital in promoting a personal brand. Once you have established yourself as a brand, it is time to form networking groups, hold events, organize live shows and interact socially with other people from your industry.
Remember there is enough space for everyone to grow. So, help others and don’t drag them down.
