Personal branding is nothing new. For centuries people have developed symbols and crests to represent them. During tournaments and on battlefields, knights displayed crests proudly on their armor to signify their might. As an example, fans of Game of Thrones will no doubt recognize the crests that represent each of the houses. They symbolize the family’s beliefs and evoke loyalty from those who live under them. Crests and modern brands have the same goal, to communicate confidence in the person they represent.
In today’s realm it is just as important to present a strong personal brand when competing for a job, move up in a company, enter the world of sports or creating your own path by becoming an entrepreneur. No matter what your goal in life, having a strong sense of yourself and a consistent message gives you a foundation on which to grow.
When creating Marblehead Creative we defined some key target groups that we believe will benefit from having a strong personal brand:
Graduates looking to enter the workforce and land that big job. We all know how competitive the marketplace is these days. Some job postings have hundreds or even thousands of applicants. You need to build a case that you are the only candidate that matters and a strong brand used consistently gives an employer a reason to stop and consider you.
Young executives who are looking to move up the corporate ladder. A strong personal brand showcases your skills, experience and drive to succeed in a concise and compelling way. A confident personal brand will show the executives you are ready to take the next step.
Athletes looking to impress. Many of today’s professional athletes have created brands to help market themselves. When you’re just getting started it is important to create a buzz to get noticed. Your athletic skill is first and foremost but having a strong brand will demonstrate confidence in yourself and your ability to succeed. It also sets a strong foundation for you throughout your playing career and beyond.
Those who choose to tread their own path to success. Entrepreneurs, freelancers, artists, musicians, models, comedians, anyone who’s willing to back themselves in this world. If you’re going to make it on your own you better have confidence in yourself. Establishing an authentic personal brand will make selling yourself more convincing and professional.
Those for whom the Internet is a canvas. Bloggers, Vloggers, YouTube sensations, Freelance contributors and anyone wanting to make their mark online. Ensuring that you are taken seriously by the online world requires a strong personal brand that tells people you’re worth listening to. Everyone has an opinion but a well-executed brand will give a sense of authority and confidence to yours. Once established your brand will become a beacon for those who value your perspective.
The world is an increasingly competitive place and it is important that you don’t get lost in the crowd. We are not saying that a personal brand will make all your wishes come true but it will give you a firm foundation on which to build. It helps you understand who you are and tells people that you have confidence in in what you have to say.