During the last term, we learned how to design a brand identity for a client. We followed a specific process and each of us developed logos and corporate design guidelines for various businesses. Part of the process was a creative brief that was put together after talking to the client to understand his product, services and requirements.
This term we are asked to brand ourselves and build our own portfolio. Why does this seem so different and somewhat difficult? Maybe because we have to spend some time with ourselves thinking about who we are and how we want to be perceived by others, especially by our future clients and business partners. We might have some “blind spots” in regards to our strengths and weaknesses and certain personal brand characteristics that we haven’t been aware of so far.
Here are five tips and suggestions I found helpful during the process of building my personal brand:
- Create content that is valuable to others and that showcases your competence in specific areas.
Starting a blog about graphic design related topics like this is a great start. Other examples are sharing interesting and information about graphic design on social media platforms such as Linkedin or a Facebook. (Source: TheGuardian.com) - Google your name
Search for your own name in Google and analyze the results. Are the links relating to pages that present you in a way you would like to be perceived by potential clients, employers or business partners? (Source: Topdogsocialmedia.com) - Be authentic
Don’t try to be someone you aren’t. Instead, create a realistic personal brand that reflects your true interests, specialties and passions. (Source: Contentmarketinginstitute.com) - Define yourself
Who are you, what is important to you, “what makes you different from everyone else”, which values do you live by? Take the time to sit down and make a list with characteristics that describe you best. (Source: About.com) - Update your narrative
Even if we are not always aware of changes, our life and our own story are not “static” as this article on Forbes.com states. It is helpful to update resumes and “About me” summaries on online platforms regularly. Also, it is suggested to update one’s social contacts about recent activtities or success stories. People remember these news bits and might refer back to someone with your specific skills in the future. (Source: Forbes.com).
What is your strategy of building your personal brand? Share your insights in the comment section or link to your online portfolio.