Too many professionals don’t make the most of their personal brand because they feel shy about really putting themselves out there.
The reality is that countless professionals have a personal brand, and you don’t need to do anything grand to get noticed. It’s the small tweaks that really matter.
Here are a few things to consider if you want to stand out in your sector.
1. Evaluate Your LinkedIn Profile
When last did you have a proper read through your LinkedIn profile? Is it still up to date? Does it sell you and your skills? Even your profile picture matters – if you haven’t updated it in a while, this is a good time to book a session with a personal branding photographer.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is both detailed and personal – give people a small taste of who you are and what you’re capable of.
2. Review Your Online Presence
If you want to make the best first impression, take some time out to Google your name. What pops up? If someone had to search for you on any social media platform, would you be happy with what they see? You may even stumble upon bad reviews on other sites that you had no idea existed.
Ensure that every interaction you have with someone is as positive as possible – you never know what far-reaching impact it might have.
And if you have a website, take the time to update it in a way that’s consistent with your other online profiles and portfolios.
3. Have an Elevator Pitch
If you’re a working professional, you should have an elevator pitch. You never quite know when you might need to sell yourself. How often have people asked you what you do only for you to fumble for a very long-winded answer?
Having an elevator pitch means you will never have to search for the words, and you instantly come across as more confident.
4. Work Your Network
Have you done business or worked with people who are well known online or in their industries? Find ways to partner with them, get a shout-out, or at least a review on LinkedIn. And if someone had a positive experience with you, they will be more than happy to help you out. All it takes is for you to reach out to them.
You really don’t need to wait to be noticed when there are a number of smaller steps you can take to elevate your personal brand right away.