What is a personal brand, and why is building a presence important?

It’s what people say and think about you. A personal brand encompasses everything from your core values and professional work to how you present yourself on social media and at networking events.

Brisbane-based Personal Brand Expert Suzie Lightfoot says, “Your personal brand is not just about creating a name for yourself. It’s about being true to who you are, what you stand for, and what you bring to the table. When you build a powerful and authentic personal brand, you not only amplify your reputation and influence, but you also inspire and empower others to do the same.”

And in 2023, it’s an essential part of anyone’s professional career—no matter how much experience you have. It’s a way to differentiate and stand out from your competitors, and when done right, it can lead to excellent career prospects.

“Your personal brand is not just about creating a name for yourself. It’s about being true to who you are, what you stand for, and what you bring to the table.” — Suzie Lightfoot

The benefits of building your personal brand:

1.    Established trust

If people understand who you are, what you do, and why you’re passionate about your field, they will likely trust you. Building a strong personal brand will allow others to know your genuine intentions, which may make them feel more comfortable around you—and when people feel comfortable, trust is established. And once trust is built, more opportunities might arise.

2.    Enhanced credibility

As well as establishing trust, you’ll also gain credibility. Building your personal brand by demonstrating your expertise or providing invaluable insights to other like-minded professionals through the likes of social media or networking events might elevate you to becoming a respected thought leader in your industry, resulting in newfound growth and success.

3.    Career advancement opportunities

By establishing a strong reputation, you might also increase your job opportunities. According to a CareerBuilder survey, 70% of employers use social media platforms to find and research future employees, and if you’ve established a strong, credible, and visible brand, employers are more likely to see your online presence stand out from the others which may lead to career progression.

4.    Networking possibilities 

Through building your personal brand, you’ll also have the chance to broaden your network, enabling you to create more personal industry connections. The more exposure you gain through strengthening your personal brand, the more connections you can expect to make.

5.    Increased confidence 

Building your network and becoming a trusted professional also helps boost your confidence. Sharing your skills, expertise, and positive qualities with your network and connecting with other like-minded professionals could make you feel more confident in your abilities and improve your career trajectory.

Building your personal brand is a powerful tool for establishing yourself as a thought leader in your industry, enhancing your credibility and attracting ideal opportunities. It’ll set you apart from your competitors and is an investment that can pay dividends throughout your career.

Have a question for us? If you’re a job seeker on the lookout for your next role, a hiring manager looking to fill a position, or want to know more about this topic, contact us at Humanised Group! We’re here to help you succeed.