Branding is the combination of tangible and intangible characteristics that make a brand unique. Branding is developing an image -- with results to match.
Here's your starting point... grab your pen:
- Write down what sets you apart from others, describe the added value you bring to a situation
- List your Experience and Accomplishments
- Stay up to date with changes in your field, continuing education is VERY important. What have you done lately to perfect your craft, to prove you are an expert in your field?
- Building Relationships - a top priority!
Cultivate your existing relationships with clients and/or supporters. Don't lose site of account maintenance while pursuing new business. Nothing is more powerful in building your career brand than what your network of contacts -- your friends, colleagues, customers, clients, and former bosses -- say about you and your set of skills, education, and accomplishments.
Most importantly...Promote Yourself
You can have an amazing brand, but if no one knows about it, you are not going to have much success with your career development. And no one more than you has more reasons to promote your brand. Throw modesty out the window? There is a fine line between bragging and promoting -- and you need to learn it -- but it's always better to err on the side of promoting your brand than notFinal Thoughts
Once you identify and build your brand, remember to continue strengthening and protecting it. There will always be competing brands but you are indeed founder and CEO of Y-O-U, Inc., and the more you do to cultivate your career brand, the more successful you'll be.
