If you don’t know why, why will people buy? This is really the first step in marketing yourself. Knowing your purpose and having belief in what you do.
I’ve been reminded of the well-known Simon Sinek Ted Talk on, Begin with Why, as I am going through the process of refining my brand, photos and communication collateral.
He says, “Knowing your why can help you act with purpose”. It is that core element, your unique shining point or magic ingredient that will help you stand apart. Knowing your why, how you make a difference and how you help others is one way to boost (or refine) your personal brand and business.
You may feel uncomfortable about the idea of marketing yourself, however personal branding doesn’t have to be “showy", it’s about stepping up and communicating the value you bring to others.
Video to Communicate
One strategy I work with is video and it is everywhere now including short form videos on LinkedIn and reels on Instagram. I post videos on my website, social media, for online training and on my YouTube channel. Also, YouTube is the second largest search engine in the world, so it would be crazy not to utilise it more.
Creating videos is not relevant for everyone. It suits my business and my personal branding approach. You might prefer other forms of social media marketing such as newsletters or posts on LinkedIn which is the number one choice for business professionals. Profiling yourself through social media is one way to get noticed.
The thing is though not everyone feels confident about being in the spotlight. And that’s where my “why” comes in. My aim is to ignite that spark and give you the tools and encouragement to overcome lack of confidence to step into being seen, heard, and valued.
Here’s a few other ideas on Increasing your Confidence and Visibility
Choose one or two social media sites that work for you. Think about your target audience, who you want to reach and what channel will be most suitable. You don’t have to be across everything. Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn are top popular choices. Where will your prospective clients or customers be? Use one or two of your chosen social media networks and use them well, as a tool for you to express your ideas and showcase your skills and brand in front of those that count.
Networks are not just found on social media. You still need to have face-to-face communication and get to know people through connecting in person and often that happens by networking. Now that could be through attending events put on by your industry association, women’s business groups, Rotary, Chamber of Commerce or even within your company.
Networking is about building a network of people. Getting to know people and understanding each other’s needs. Can you find ways to communicate with your network – perhaps having actual conversations and coffee catch ups each week. Coffee conversations can lead to great connections.
Inviting someone for coffee could be considered an event, another tactic of self-marketing and a way of communicating or expressing your self-brand. What sort of special event could you set up? Lunch or after work drinks. Can you organise something and socialise with those that count?
Awards could also be considered special events and are a way to showcase your personal brand. Entering an award, even though you may not win can create greater awareness of you and your business. Another reason is it gives you the chance to look at your work through fresh eyes. Having to answer questions and be succinct about why you should be a winner could just help you believe that you already are.
Public Speaking is also a great way to enhance your visibility and communicate your personal brand. Can you volunteer for speaking opportunities at your office or with professional associations? Perhaps join the committee and take your turn at being the MC. Is there an opportunity for you to be on an industry panel? Join toastmasters to get some practise or undertake presentation skills training to overcome any fear you may have.
For anyone building a business or career it is important to be confident at presenting business proposals and putting your thoughts across succinctly and engagingly. You don’t always need to be on stage to speak up and express yourself. Go to meetings prepared to speak up and volunteer your opinion.
Read more about my Four V's of Communication in The Secret to Your Personal Brand Revolution. Get Your Free eBook Now!
Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
