Yesterday, I shared some ways you might begin using social media to build your personal brand in the nonprofit field. Letting people know who you are, putting yourself out there, growing your network – these are all important aspects of personal branding.
But what if you don’t really know what your personal brand is yet?
Like many concepts, personal branding is simple – in theory. Your personal brand is essentially just your professional reputation. It’s what other people say about you when you’re not in the room. The real question is: do you have a good personal brand or not? Is it helping you thrive in your career? What do your colleagues think of you? Do people even know who you are beyond your little cubicle in the corner of the office???
So many questions, Rosetta! I know, I know. Take a deep breath. Exhale. We’re about to take a moment to explore them together today.
What’s your three-word personal brand?
Get out a sheet of paper and come up with three words, characteristics or attributes that you want people to think of when they think of you. What do you want to be known for? Jot down what comes to mind. Think: is this really who I am? Is this who I want to be? Then, tweak them a bit. Important note: As @snotforprofit points out, words like “passionate” and ” hard-working” are often overused.
So, try to go beyond the obvious. What makes you unique or memorable? What makes you a valuable asset to the workplace? To the sector? Play those things up instead. Then, perhaps you’ll be ready to think more clearly about how you might use social media tools to showcase your personal brand online.
Inquiring minds want to know . . . what’s your three-word personal brand? Tell me what you came up with in the comments!
Wanna learn more about personal branding? Purchase your copy of my popular 90-minute webinar training, Personal Branding 101: How to Use Social Media to Accelerate Your Career.
