Whether you’re seeking to land more clients for your company, to grow your professional network or to simply build the foundation for future success, it is important to develop a strong, recognizable personal brand. Similar to business-level branding, personal branding allows you to establish a reputation, credibility and a unique identity for yourself, all of which have the power to open doors of new opportunity. Here are a few quick tips to help you get started:

Create A Brand Vision
The first step in developing your personal brand is to identify your own values, passions and strengths. In addition, determine what makes you unique and what you want to be known for. This information will provide insight into how you’d like yourself to be perceived by others, and is the foundation and vision of your brand.

Establish An Online Presence
Build your reputation and showcase your expertise within your niche by publishing thoughtful and engaging content online. Have a personal website? Tell a compelling story—in the first person—about who you are, your experiences and what makes you, you.  Start a blog that you update on a regular basis, and/or contribute to publications as a guest blogger.

Have social profiles? Make sure they are up-to-date with current employment and skillset information. Stay active on these channels by posting interesting articles that spark engagement. In addition, don’t skip an opportunity to join the conversation on others’ posts.

Grow Your Network
The more opportunities you have to meet people and chat about who you are and what you do, the better. This goes for both social media the real world. Engage in online discussions frequently and attend professional networking events when you have the chance. Connections in your field, social influencers and anyone that values your message can help spread the word about your know-how.

If you’d like the opportunity to explore the development of your personal brand on a deeper level, listen to the podcast of our event — Building A Blockbuster Personal Brand.

In this podcast, Jacquie Chakirelis, Senior Digital Director at Advance Ohio, discusses the foundation of building a strong personal brand and why the process is so valuable. She also gives tips to help you start separating yourself from the competition immediately.