If you want to be known as the go to girl for recipes or garden advice it’s time you build your expertise. If you want to nab the job, create a new sideline business or be known among colleagues and clients as Miss Organizational Queen you need to add the signature pieces to your look that help build your personal brand. Think of it as ways to “hook your look.”
Want an edge, a way to stand apart from the crowd or competition? Don’t put your freak on and start adding pink streaks to your hair, instead do the research and follow what thrills you.
Your personal brand is the way to make yourself memorable by highlighting your unique persona and interests to those around you – coworkers, friends, and new acquaintances. It’s about creating a niche, an expertise you’re passionate about and making sure you express that passion in everything you do. No matter what your “thing” is, make it part of your lifestyle.
Let’s say you’re a gal best known for her dinner menus and table décor then make sure your brand reflects that. Take photos of the meals, the table settings, the party and carry them in a n albuem on your iPhoen or Blackberry. Family, neighbors and new acquaintances will remember that you love to cook and make sure that you’re involved in planning the menu for the next block party or school picnic.
For recent college grads pursuing a job in graphic design – make sure your brand communicates your creativity. Shining a spotlight on your artistic eye will reinforce your existing qualifications and help you stand out from other candidates.
There’s no need to hire a stylist to create this hook when you consider these three simple tips
First – define and wear a signature look. Think of how you want to highlight yourself with this brand – what style of clothes, accessories and personal touches will make you stand out. Extend your style by finding a statement accessory. Maybe it’s an over-sized cocktail ring, a multi-strand necklace, a scarf or colorful shoes or a cool tech gadget. And you don’t necessarily have to buy something new; you may already have something in your wardrobe that completes the look. The key is to keep your look consistent.
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For example, if you are a stay-at-home mom and want to be known for your superb gardening skills, incorporate floral print scarves into your wardrobe or carry a planner or tote decorated with flowers.
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If you’re looking to put that graphics design degree to work in Corporate America, you want to appear polished and professional, yet stand out at the same time during interviews. Add accessories that make your look pop. Consider adding to your well-fitting suit brightly colored shoes or a bold necklace. And carry your latest design ideas in a journal or portfolio.
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Second – invest in personal stationery that says something about you. Consistency is key here too, whether it’s business or social calling cards, note cards, letterhead, notepads or address labels. Make sure they all have the same look and can further communicate your personal brand. I like places that help me with these pieces. I’m a fan of several online sites like FedEx.com with their Design and Print Center and VistaPrint.com for all their discounts.
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Third – carry your brand through in all your personal touch points. Remember you can leave a lasting impression about your personal brand even in e-mail and voicemail messages.
For the gardening guru, maybe create an e-mail signature with a quote about the beauty of flowers or add a tagline such as “How does your garden grow?” encouraging people to learn more about how easy it is to grow delicious fruits and vegetables at home. You can even continue that to your voicemail. “Hi it’s Jane Birken, asking How Does Your Garden Grow? Leave me a message and let me know!” Or leave quick tips like, “It’s time for planting your tulip bulbs.” Sure a little corny, but it will be remembered.
As for the graphic designer, consider choosing an e-mail address with words like Modern, Design, or Style and continue that to your blog or Web site. And for anybody looking to build their brand a blog is a simple way to express it from foodie notes and recipes finds, shopping favorites or even short videos of your makeup talents.
The goal in all of these personal branding tips is to find something that tells people who you are and intrigues them to learn more. It’s about standing out without looking like you’re trying too hard to prove yourself.