You are constantly growing and achieving new things. The evolution of you deserves to be displayed in a manner that is suitable for such accomplishments.
Your personal brand is comprised of every touch point that allows others to shape perception about you. Some of those touch points are your personal appearance, communication style, and online presence, which largely influence your overall brand image.
When it comes to the presentation of self, there is no room for chance. Your packaging should always be as good as your substance…or better! Could it be time to refresh your brand image? These five steps will get you in tip-top shape.
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1. Clean up your social media profiles.
Your social media profiles should effectively tell your story. Take a look at your most recent posts and ask yourself, "Are these posts the best representation of me?"
In many ways, social media has become the new business card. Take pride in what you share and make sure that it is meaningful and has long-term value in your life.
2. Perfect your mini bio.
Who are you? That can be very challenging to answer in a few words, yet so critical to making a powerful first impression.
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The words that you choose to describe yourself in your social media mini bios (or lack thereof) offer insight into your personality, brand style, and what's important to you. Your mini bio in combination with your profile image and recent posts are key considerations that profile visitors use when deciding whether or not to connect with you.
3. Streamline your name/handles across social media platforms.
It's always so funny when you meet someone in person that you've been connected with socially, and they refer to you by one of your social media handles. Every time you post, people read your handle as well, so it is a very important aspect of branding yourself.
When selecting your handles, remember that it's more important to be easy to remember than creative and different. Use your name or something that is clearly associated with your brand, and keep your handle (and profile image) consistent across all platforms.
If we met briefly at an event without exchanging contact information, it should be relatively easy for me to locate you online afterwards.
4. Take a power headshot.
Poor presentation is a huge disservice to your brand. Take a look at the photo that you currently use to represent yourself on social sites, and ask yourself these questions:
1) Does it look like me?
2) Would I take me seriously?
3) Does it embody the essence of my brand?
4) Is it quality?
When it comes to your personal brand, a selfie just won't cut it. You have to look like money to make money. Show your audience that you are willing to invest in yourself, and they will be willing to invest in you.
5. Boost your confidence.
You can have a well-presented personal brand with amazing substance, but if you lack confidence in presenting yourself to others, it is all in vain.
Take some time to make a list of all the things that make you, YOU! Also, revisit your success stories to be reminded of your strengths. Recalling these things regularly will help you to face the world with confidence and be the total package.
Aaja Corinne Magee is a Chicago-based Image & Personal Branding Strategist, specializing in helping high-potential leaders create game-changing personal brands. For more savvy advice and quick tips, connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and sign up for her newsletter at www.aajacorinnethebrand.com.
