The concept of personal branding may have been born in 1997, with Tom Peters’ article “The Brand Called You” in Fast Company magazine. Even if it predates Peters, it’s become a legitimate career practice employed by entrepreneurs, CEOs, and even regular workers who want to distinguish themselves from the pack.
Take charge of your career—and your life—by constructing your very own personal brand. Put these steps into action:
- Identify your passion. Your brand won’t stand the test of time unless it’s based on something you feel strongly about and want to do for the rest of your life.
- Specialize. Plant your banner in a niche that’s narrow enough for you to stand out in. Look at what you already do better than anyone else, and concentrate on keeping your skills sharp in that area.
- Market yourself. Position yourself as a service provider. Let your manager and co-workers know what you’re capable of and what you want to do. Think of yourself as a CEO, even though you have an employer. Your career is ultimately your responsibility, after all.
- Keep a scorecard. You know that setting goals is important to your career progress, right? Decide what you want your brand to accomplish, and establish some milestones—your next promotion, a new client, a completed project, etc. Track your brand’s success over time.
“Do the best you can to be yourself.”
[Article first appeared in the May 2011 issue of Family Times published monthly by Play-a-Round Golf. To get your own copy full of helpful information and valuable coupons, just send your mailing address to starter@playaroundgolf.net.]
