What is Personal Branding - A Guide to Re-Inventing Yourself

In the fast-paced world of executive leadership, standing out is not just an option – it's a necessity. Personal branding is the key to making a lasting impact in your industry. At Bigger Fish - Executive Branding, we believe in crafting personal brands that are as unique as the individuals behind them. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the core components of "what is personal branding", offering expert insights and practical tips.

What is Personal Branding?

1. Style: Crafting an Image That Speaks Volumes

Define Your Signature Look

Your style is an extension of your professional persona. Work with Bigger Fish to identify a signature look that reflects your personality and aligns with industry expectations. Whether it's a power suit or a distinctive accessory, make it yours. We can help edit and craft the perfect profile image for your social media.

Invest in Quality Wardrobe Staples

Quality over quantity is the golden rule. Invest in timeless, well-made wardrobe staples that withstand trends. Bigger Fish recommends a wardrobe audit to ensure you have versatile pieces that can seamlessly transition from boardroom to networking events.

Express Confidence Through Body Language

Your posture and gestures speak volumes. Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and use gestures purposefully to project assurance in every interaction. Bigger Fish provides an online interview coaching course that can help you with this.

2. Personality: The Heart of Your Professional Identity

Identify Your Core Values

Your personal brand is rooted in your values. Identify and showcase the core values that define you as a leader. Incorporate these values into your interactions, decisions, and overall professional narrative.

Authenticity Wins Every Time

Authenticity is magnetic. Bigger Fish encourages you to be genuine in your communication and actions. Embrace your quirks, share your journey authentically, and let your true self shine through in all aspects of your professional life.

Consistency Is Key

Consistency builds trust. We emphasise the importance of maintaining consistency in your actions, messaging, and visual identity. A consistent personal brand reinforces your professional identity and fosters credibility.

3. Your CV: Transforming Experience into a Compelling Story

Quantify Your Achievements

Numbers speak louder than words. Bigger Fish helps you quantify your achievements on your CV, providing concrete evidence of your impact. Whether it's revenue growth, cost savings, or successful projects, let the numbers tell your success story.

Tailor Your CV for Your Audience

One size doesn't fit all. Bigger Fish advises tailoring your CV for specific roles and industries. Customise your CV to align with the expectations and needs of your target audience, showcasing how your skills and experience meet their requirements.

Craft a Powerful Personal Summary

Your personal summary is the first thing employers see. Bigger Fish assists in crafting a powerful summary that encapsulates your professional journey, highlights your strengths, and sets the tone for the rest of your CV. Make it compelling and memorable.

4. Social Media: Navigating the Digital Landscape

Curate Your Online Persona

Your online presence is an extension of your personal branding. Bigger Fish guides you in curating a professional online persona across various platforms, including LinkedIn. Ensure that your social media profiles reflect the same level of professionalism as your offline presence.

Engage Thoughtfully in Conversations

Social media is not just a broadcasting tool; it's a platform for engagement. Bigger Fish encourages thoughtful participation in industry conversations. Share insights, comment on relevant topics, and actively engage with your professional community.

Showcase Your Expertise Through Content

Position yourself as an industry thought leader. Bigger Fish suggests creating and sharing valuable content related to your expertise. Whether it's articles, videos, or infographics, consistent content creation enhances your credibility and visibility.

5. LinkedIn Optimisation: Maximizing Your Professional Network

Optimize Your Profile for Keywords

Make your profile easily discoverable. We advise strategic use of keywords relevant to your industry and role. This optimisation ensures that your profile appears in searches conducted by recruiters and professionals seeking your expertise.

Build and Nurture Meaningful Connections

Quality trumps quantity in your professional network. Bigger Fish recommends building and nurturing meaningful connections. Engage with professionals who align with your goals, and foster relationships that go beyond superficial connections.

Regularly Update Your Profile

An outdated profile may convey a lack of engagement. We stress the importance of regular updates and stylish profile image. Add new skills, accomplishments, and endorsements to keep your profile current and demonstrate continuous professional growth.

6. Your Website: A Hub for Your Professional Brand

Create a User-Friendly Design

Your website is your digital home. Bigger Fish can assist in creating a user-friendly design that reflects your personal brand. Ensure easy navigation, clear messaging, and a professional aesthetic to make a positive impression.

Showcase Your Portfolio or Achievements

Your website is an opportunity to showcase your work. Bigger Fish suggests incorporating a portfolio or achievements section, allowing visitors to see tangible examples of your expertise and accomplishments.

Include a Personal Branding Statement

Craft a concise and impactful personal branding statement. Bigger Fish helps you articulate your unique value proposition on your website. This statement should succinctly communicate who you are, what you do, and why you're exceptional.

7. How to Differentiate Yourself: Standing Out in a Sea of Talent

Find Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Bigger Fish assists you in identifying your Unique Selling Proposition – what sets you apart from others in your field. Whether it's a specific skill, experience, or approach, your USP becomes the focal point of your personal brand.

Embrace Innovation and Continuous Learning

The business landscape evolves, and so should you. Bigger Fish encourages embracing innovation and continuous learning. Stay updated on industry trends, acquire new skills, and showcase your adaptability to stand out as a forward-thinking professional.

Seek and Showcase Testimonials

Let others sing your praises. Bigger Fish advises seeking and showcasing testimonials from colleagues, clients, or superiors. Positive testimonials serve as social proof, reinforcing your professional reputation and credibility.

8. Communication: The Art of Building Lasting Connections

Hone Your Active Listening Skills

Communication is a two-way street. Bigger Fish emphasizes the importance of active listening. Mastering this skill allows you to understand others' perspectives, respond thoughtfully, and build stronger, more meaningful connections.

Craft a Consistent Verbal and Visual Message

Consistency in messaging is crucial. Bigger Fish helps you align your verbal and visual communication. From spoken words to body language, ensure that every aspect of your communication reinforces your personal brand consistently. You can learn more in our online interview coaching course here.

Handle Criticism with Grace

In the professional world, criticism is inevitable. We suggest handling criticism with grace. Respond constructively, learn from feedback, and use it as an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and a commitment to improvement.

In the world of executive branding, Bigger Fish is your partner in unlocking the full potential of your personal brand. By focusing on Style, Personality, Your CV, Social Media, LinkedIn Optimisation, Your Website Design, How to Differentiate Yourself, and Communication, we equip you with the tools to navigate the competitive landscape with confidence and distinction. Your personal brand is your competitive edge – let's make it unforgettable.