I really dislike the concept of 'personal brand'.
Maybe it's my marketing background. I find the process of how a corporate or charity defines itself and communicates that to other people fascinating. But I don't think the concepts relate to how we interact as humans.
Brands should bring an organisation together, giving clarity and consistency to the message they want to get across.
As individuals we need to build productive relationships that get the best out of us and the people we’re working with.
It’s not the same.
You don’t need to build a “personal brand”, you need to build trust and respect.
When thinking about the impact you're making at work and the progress you want to make in your career, ask this question instead:
What do people say about me when I’m not in the room?*
Be really honest with yourself.
How are you seen at work? Are you perceived as helpful and approachable? Are you reliable? Are you credible?
What are your strengths? And are these the things you are known for?
What are your values? Are these demonstrated in how you work? Would your colleagues recognise them?
If the answers aren’t the ones you’d want, then you need to stop and think and review what you’re doing.
Get in touch if you’d like some help.
*Yes, it's based on that famous quote from Jeff Bezos that all the brand managers here will recognise….