When asked about “branding”, most think about logos & color choice.
We also tend to associate branding with products & services.
However, for small businesses & solopreneurs, we 100% understand that people do business with people.
People we know, like & trust. Right?
This is where Personal Branding comes into play.
First, let’s define branding.
Branding is all about making something more desirable by highlighting its uniqueness and value.
We understand how this may work with a product or service, but how do we go about highlighting our personal uniqueness and value?
The following are 4 strategies you can use to build up your personal brand:
1. Be Memorable
When it comes to marketing a product, giving it a personality, and using eye-catching visuals can help it stand out – the same applies to your personal brand.
Look for ways that you can be more distinctive in your market.
What is it about your personal brand that you love and that others are always complimenting you on?
What are your best skills and what energy and working style do you bring to projects?
Inspiration:
- images of you at work
- images of your products
- personal branding photos
- share your values with others
- hold a workshop or webinar to demonstrate your skills
2. Be Visible
Visibility is key in all types of marketing.
Being visible means you’ll stay top-of-mind in your industry and professional network.
If customers don’t know about you, they can’t interact with or buy from you.
Did you know that the average person sees between 4,000 – 10,000 ads per day?
If we’re not intentional about being visible to our ideal clients, we have little luck of succeeding.
Here’s some ideas:
- speaking at events
- join networking groups in your area
- engage with your audience on social
- be interviewed on a podcast
3. WIIFM (What’s In It for Them)?
If you want customers to sit up and pay attention, tell them what they will gain or lose from using your product or service.
Remember, people don’t typically buy features. They buy the benefits that your product or service provides.
How will using your product or service save the client money, time, or frustration?
Why should people work with you?
How can you provide value to the lives of your clients & partners?
Client testimonials that reflect their positive experiences from using your service or products is perfect for guiding new leads to your contact page.
4. Why You?
What is it that drives you to do what you do?
When you’re passionate, authentic, and do meaningful work, you will automatically build trust and credibility.
Think about your dream clients and learn what’s important to them.
Then think about how you can build a link between that and the reason why you’re offering what you do.
Use this authenticity in all modes of communication.
Be consistent.
Remember, your customers want to get to know “YOU” and connect with the person they’re thinking about partnering or doing business with.
A memorable, authentic, and visible personal brand will always stand out amongst the rest.
All it takes is understanding your audience and being clear about the what and why behind your brand.