Whether you're the leader of a small business or CEO of a massive corporation, having a strong personal brand is the best way to make yourself known to the world. But while every personal brand is different, there's one key ingredient that goes into making a great one.
That's why we asked six entrepreneurs from FounderSociety the following question:
Q. What’s the most important thing I should focus on as I build my own personal brand?
1. Remember the Details Matter
Don't give people a reason to not want to read your content or experience your brand. Check the spelling and grammar of everything you produce, and make sure photos are of a reasonable resolution, are relevant, and that you have permission to publish them. Things like this won't stop you from getting out there, but they do stop people from coming back. —Ben Gamble, Quincus
2. Always Be Authentic
Remember you are your brand at all times. That person in line behind you at the store could be your next client, or that person you met at a friend's party could be your next referral; making connections is always possible if you allow for it. Real connections are made without expecting anything in return. Personal branding isn't rocket science, it's just "you doing you." —Angela Delmedico, Elev8 Consulting Group
3. Let Your Personality Shine
There are many things that go into building a great personal brand: the ability to frame yourself as an expert, showing you're good at what you do, making yourself look great, and so on...but anyone can do that. Focus on what makes you unique—ask yourself who you are, and figure out how to convey that in how you present and conduct yourself. —Steven Buchwald, The E2 Visa Lawyer
4. Form a Relationship With Your Customers
Throughout my experience, I've found that the best way to build a personal brand is by word of mouth. If you keep a great relationship with your customers, you'll be able to build a strong personal brand made up of an exceptional customer base. —Ajmal Saleem, Suprex Learning
5. Control Your Message
Contrary to popular belief, not all PR is good PR. You need to be mindful and cognizant of the message you're sending at all times. You and your team don't want to accidentally put something out there that goes against your actual beliefs or company vision; it could potentially damage your company and everything you've built to this point. So be careful, and always keep your message under control. —Ben Walker, Transcription Outsourcing, LLC
6. Know, Believe and Preach Your 'Why'
People don't follow you, buy from you, ask you to speak at their events, or sign up for your newsletter because of all the stuff you do. They do so because of why you do it. Figure out what connects everything you do, then integrate that "why" into everything you do—your social media posts, your blog, your work, the events you attend, etc. You should even be focusing on your "why" when you relax and unwind. —Mike Jones, Resound
