“Who are you? Who, who? Who, who?
I really want to know…”
The Who, 1978
Perhaps the more provocative question: who am I? Who, who?
#PersonalBranding is something I’ve come to understand and leverage relatively recently and wish I had thought more about earlier in my career. Even now, I find it terribly easy to conform to the corporate culture, which may be safer, but often withholds my best, most diverse thinking. Bringing my “A” game starts with knowing my own brand—my differentiated value—and capturing its essence in words that I can snap back to in the moment. Some quick thoughts about personal brand:
· Have one! I was asked a few years ago “what is your personal brand Phil?” and I did not even understand the question. I’ve since thought about my brand as mine to shape and drive. I’m still surprised how few actually have a brand statement.
· Stand apart. I read a lot of resumes, and they tend to sound very much alike. When hiring, I’m looking for the person who isn’t like the rest of my team. It’s the same with one’s brand–be courageous and let your unique authenticity, your superpower, shine through.
· Reinforce it. Remember that most folks think in snippets. One or two words come to mind when people think of who we are, and what we stand for. Create opportunities to narrow and strengthen how you want to be known.