You might recall that a few years ago I posted a podcast with my good friend Sam Richter about the importance of personal branding, especially in the digital world.
Well, I’m telling you right now that your personal brand is everything.
I came across a Fast Company article penned by Tom Peters that talks about what it takes to success in the “Age of the Individual.” There’s no age more individual than now; the digital age. Social media has completely changed the way people interact with each other. Now you have access to see basically anything in someone’s life- and it’s because they give you immediate, up-to-the-second access.
Here’s the funny thing you’ll notice about Tom Peters’ article. It’s from 1997…yes 1997! 18 years ago! Could it be that even before the advent of the smartphone, one’s personal brand was vital to their career’s success?
Yes.
It’s that simple. Your reputation precedes you and this has always been the case. New technologies have just given others more viewing platforms to gain insight on who you are.
So, the question is, what do you do? Take some advice from Tom:
Starting today you are a brand.
You're every bit as much a brand as Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop. To start thinking like your own favorite brand manager, ask yourself the same question the brand managers at Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop ask themselves: What is it that my product or service does that makes it different? Give yourself the traditional 15-words-or-less contest challenge. Take the time to write down your answer. And then take the time to read it. Several times.
Looking for a new job? Trying to land some business? Learn how to be the “CEO of Me Inc.” Once you understand the power of you, you will be able to understand the potential of the future you.
