Individual Branding is Important for your Career

When we think of branding, we think of commercial products and companies investing large sums in the development and promotion of their brand. But individuals have brands as well – and you already have one, and it’s public if you have a LinkedIn Profile.

People don’t often think of themselves as a business, but you can benefit by doing so. Over the years, professional athletes have made this leap and it has benefited them greatly. And while you may not have the brand or recognition that a professional athlete has, you can take control of your brand and improve your messaging/positioning and impression you create.

How do you want to be perceived in your professional life? What is your identity? What is your focus? What are your strengths, what values do you promote and bring to an organization, what are your aspirations?

Taking some time to think about and develop your LinkedIn profile is a great start. Whether you outsource the work to one of the many people who do this professionally, or are a DIY person (there are some great books available to help, such as Donna Serdula’s LinkedIn Optimization for Dummies, 2nd Edition), And having a professionally done headshot that exemplifies your brand is a key part of the process as well (please – no selfies, cut out pictures from your cousin’s wedding, or parking lot/golf course background shots!).

This advice is not just for job seekers – even if you’re totally happy in your current job, you’ll want to take control of your brand. It not only helps others understand who you are, it will help you take more control of and be more deliberate about your professional career and life, and that’s a good thing!