How To Develop Your Personal Brand

To be successful in today's competitive market, you have to make a positive impression. Develop your personal brand by following these steps.

Work out your personality characteristics and your passions. Discover what sets you apart. Develop a personal brand statement that is just for you—your internal dialogue—then use that as the basis for external communication.

Develop your statement into a short ad about you. When you meet people you should be able to say clearly what you do, how you do it differently, and the benefit it provides.

Develop a unique style suitable to your personality and work. Balance your style with what appeals to those you are trying to impress.

Learn good business manners and social etiquette. Send handwritten notes and return phone calls because it's the little things that count.

Build your network. Make new business contacts and stay in touch with them. Be selective in joining networking groups. Choose those who can help you and those you can help in return.

Build your brand by coming up with a new idea or by recognizing a major trend in your field.

Work hard to develop strong communication and presentation skills. Being a proficient public speaker will help reinforce your personal brand.

Choose the best employees, contractors, consultants, and partners. They will help build your brand reputation.

Develop a personal brand plan for yourself, include specific goals, strategies, action steps, and a timetable. Do this every year, and review your plan often.