In the playground that I refer to as the workplace, brand has always been influential, now it is more important than ever. In today’s economic environment, it takes more than just walking into the job search with an impressive resume’. It takes you standing out among the crowd. And it is a crowd today with most jobs having hundreds, if not thousands, of applications. So the question becomes, what is your brand and does it differentiate you in the marketplace?
 

Personal brand is about the person. The clearer you are about your destination, the easier it will be to communicate why others should pay attention. In addition to showcasing your own blend of expertise and experience, your personal brand should communicate the qualities and values you want to be know for—-being cutting-edge, innovative, honest, a team player.
 

You may be asking how do I describe my brand….how am I perceived by others? I suggest that you conduct an internal and external test. Write down how you would describe yourself based on qualities and values you possess. Then ask both personal and professional contacts if they see you as the type to thrive under high pressure situations, spark interest in others about your ideas, and serve as an effective manager/leader. Be prepared to accept the answers and do not get defensive and try to respond. Simply say thank you. Then analyze the comments you have received against your own description. Is there a correlation or a disconnect? Are there changes to be made to enhance your brand or is the perception of you by others what you want.
 

Today people are becoming more involved in social marketing and networking. Remember that every way you communicate, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others says a lot about you. Make sure that every “touch point” or point in which others see, hear, or interact with you, is supportive of the brand you desire. Everything must be consistent in order to create and develop a strong brand.
 

Effective personal branding serves as career protection in uncertain times. It is also a critical tool for reinventing yourself because you can leverage the reputation and skill set you already have to prove you have the ability to do the job you want.
 

So, how are you perceived?
 

Nyda
 

P. S. Check out the new format for the NC Mountain blog, I think you will really like it! I will be updating it again soon. We are getting close to the grand finale’. http://www.nydabittmannneville.com/nc_test.htm
 

Join me as I blog about my upcoming National Book Tour and Women’s Conference hosted by the Professional Woman Network. The tour begins in Louisville May 16^th, followed by Atlanta, DC, LA and Orlando. To find out details and register for this one-of-a-kind event, click on www.NydaBittmannNeville.com and you will see the tour.
 

Image and Brand analysis is on special….now is a great time to evaluate…please email or call me to set an appointment.