The growth of social media has made it more important than ever to establish your own brand name. Like a product’s brand, your personal brand tells people who you are and what value you bring to the world. Your brand is your reputation, and it’s essential to take control of it, whether you are a growing business or a job hunter. Here are five important characteristics that your brand needs to have.

1. Consistency

All of your actions should be consistent with the image of your brand. You will become known for something that you always do, and you should never stray too far away from it. When you’re consistent, it shows that you are reliable, and this helps to establish your credibility. When you’re inconsistent, it creates a disconnect that is not conducive to your branding. While you should be consistent, remember that your personal brand is not static and can evolve over time.

2. Uniqueness

Being unique is absolutely essential because you’re brand needs to set you apart from everybody else. You don’t want to force uniqueness by trying to be something that you’re not. However, you can seek out the natural qualities that are unique to you. Don’t create your personal brand; discover it. What are your passions? What is it that you are especially good at? Exactly what makes you different? Look for these things that you do not see in others.

3. Personality

The personality of your brand is more important to fans then actual products or services. Show off your personality as much as possible, especially when interacting with people online. Usually people want to be seen as friendly, generous, and helpful experts. Spend your time making connections with others and learning from them.

4. Memorability

Being memorable is possibly one of the most important characteristics for personal branding. Even if you are the world’s greatest blogger, when nobody remembers who you are 10 seconds later, your personal branding has failed. By highlighting a small number of skills, proficiencies and attributes but not trying to master everything, you hone in on what makes you memorable. This handful of specialties which you really excel at will become inexorably associated with your brand in the minds of others. Don’t be afraid to be brazenly different. This will make you a leader rather than a follower.

5. Clarity

Work hard to make sure that everything you produce shouts out loud exactly what you do, the value that you offer and how you are unique. Don’t force people to think about it. Let the world know exactly what it is about you and use as few carefully chosen words as possible.

Personal branding is a relatively new concept – there aren’t any textbooks that tell you how to do it. The most effective way to establish your brand is to watch and learn. Look for those who brand themselves well and follow them. Study what they’re doing and learn how to do it yourself. Pay close attention to how their words and actions contain consistency, clarity, uniqueness, personality and memorability.

Contact us for help with your branding, we’re always glad to help you.  Give us a call at 630-296-6932 or email us.