People talk about brands, branding, personal branding, product branding among other branding. The question that then follows is, what is a brand? Is it a logo?, a name? What is it?

A brand is more than just a logo or name. It’s the overall perception of a person, company, product, or service.
A brand is the identity plus the reputation of something or someone. It encompasses a host of several things:

• Visual identity represented by the Logo, colors, and fonts
• Voice and tone- looking at how the brand communicates. Does it communicate formally, friendly, or expertly, etc.
• Values and mission- refers to what the brand stands for
• Experience- denotes how people feel when they interact with the brand
• Promise- indicates what the brand consistently delivers to it’s clients

A personal brand is what people say about you when you’re not there. It reflects when you are absent or not in the room. It denotes your skill, behavior, communication style, and the value you bring!

A brand is brought about by branding. Branding is the process of creating a unique identity for a company, product, or service.
It includes creating a name, logo, tagline, values, tone of voice, and overall reputation.
The goal of branding is to create a distinct and memorable image in the minds of the target audience.

On the hand personal branding is the practice of marketing oneself and their career as a brand. It involves presenting ones skills, values, personality, and knowledge in a way that sets you apart from others.

Personal branding can be done by creating an online presence. This includes platforms like LinkedIn, a personal website, or social media. It can also be achieved through public speaking, publishing work, or professional networking.

How to build a strong personal brand

Define your Brand Identity
This involves;

• Knowing your strengths through Identifying your key skills, values, and passions.
• Clarify your message so that the audience can understand what you want them to associate with you e.g., in leadership, innovation, reliability.

Build an online presence.
Some brands can be developed by building online presence like on
LinkedIn or creating a personal website.

With online presence it is essential to keep your profile updated with achievements, experience, and endorsements.

On a personal website or blog make sure that you showcase your work, resume, portfolio, and thought leadership. Social media can help build a brand. You can share content relevant to your field and engage in discussions to show skill.

Create Valuable Content.
You brand can also be built through writing articles, sharing insights, or creating videos on topics you’re knowledgeable about.

When writing make sure you are consistent in the content to builds trust and authority.

Network strategically
Creating networks helps build a strong brand. Attend industry events, seminars, and conferences. Engage with others in your field online and offline to get your brand known.

Ask for Feedback
Getting feedback about yourself and your activities creates good brands. Seek advice from colleagues, mentors, or friends to understand how others perceive you. Use the feedback to adjust if needed.

Stay Authentic
Authenticity is key to branding. Never try to portray someone you’re not to build credibility and lasting relationships.

Continue Learning
Updating your skills and knowledge through continuous learning will elevate your personal brand. Continuous learning helps you to be seen as current and evolving.

What do you think? Are you ready to design your personal brand? Let’s engage!