In marketing, brand image is the impression of a product held by current or
prospective customers. It is the picture created in the consumer’s mind whether
real or imaginary of qualities and shortcomings. It is formed over time and is
authenticated through the consumer’s direct experience. Similarly, your
personal brand image will be the impression you give through your interpersonal
relationships.
When building your personal brand:
Encourage. Give credit where credit is due. Appreciate others and tell them.
Acknowledge their talents.
Hear their concerns. Listen more than you talk.
Don’t lose sight of the fact that there is something good in everyone. Even
the orneriest coworker has a redeeming quality. Find it and encourage them in
their strength.
Don’t defend—listen.
Be authentic. Keep it real.
Keep in mind how your “product” can benefit your “customer.” It’s not always easy, but when you are successful your personal brand will be remembered long after your LinkedIn profile has left this earth. This is authentic personal branding.
When building your personal brand, think about what you’re communicating. Be intentional with your actions and words. Be the kind of person who thinks of others and is authentic—the same on the outside as the inside. Do others benefit from the experience of interacting with you? If so, they’ll probably be a little more willing to overlook your shortcomings. People often form an impression based on how an interaction makes them feel. Relax. You don’t have to be perfect to have a strong brand image.
In my psychological romance novel, All the Other Voices, the main character, Marina, believes that it is about consciously building an image—her personal brand—so that she can get what she wants in return for her life. You can read a sample chapter to see if my writing style aligns with your reading preferences. If you like what you find on these pages, chances are likely you’ll enjoy the full book.
“…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Personal Branding Blog 