Define Yourself with a Personal Brand

If recruiters do not understand exactly who they are interviewing or receiving a resume from, then they will force a rejection. But how do you define yourself? One way to solve this reoccurring issue is by developing a Personal Brand. Personal Branding, by definition is an individual’s total perceived value, relative to competition, as viewed by their target audience. Before you can create a unique identity for yourself, you must first discover your inner strengths and abilities. This is easier said than done, but there are professionals in the market today that can help you ask the right questions. By this I mean, questions such as “what about you is different than the millions of other candidates in the world?” and statements such as “tell me about how your background connects to your work experience and education.” These questions are based around the four elements of Personal Branding: personality, appearance, competencies and your differentiator.

Personality is your ability to establish relationships with your audience, your verbal communication skills and your business etiquette. Appearance is how you behave, including your body language and your dress code. Competencies are the skills required in order to accomplish your job. Your differentiator is the single most important element because without it, you are a commodity and will not be chosen for a highly competitive job. A differentiator is how you position yourself, relative to others vying for a specific job.

When these four elements are integrated together, a core message comes to life. This core message is your most valuable interpersonal artillery and is considered by most as an “elevator pitch.” While this core message is an intangible ingredient, individuals should also focus on a Personal Branding Kit. This kit is made up of a combination of different materials, such as a resume, cover letter, portfolio, website, flash introduction and reference document. After the creation phase, you as an applicant, now have the tools you need for your job search and for interviewing. Even with the tangible and intangible parts of your Personal Brand, there is still another factor to consider. This factor is maintaining this identity over time and being consistent, so that your audience understands your message and creates an image of you in their minds, taking into account the attributes in your core message.

Article by: Dan Schawbel

As a marketing specialist for EMC2 Corporation, Dan Schawbel has driven results by assisting in the launch of six new EMC solutions and services, leading a six sigma high performing team, and developing the current eService offerings. Dan has 6 years of experience as a marketing consultant, business owner, web designer, and market strategist, at age 23. Prior to EMC2 in 2006, he served in several marketing positions in companies such as Reebok, Lycos, LoJack, and TechTarget, where his experience in marketing diversified. He has owned a web design business, GlobalSportsVillage.com and continues to be an entrepreneur with his current interest in Personal Branding.

Email: Dan@PersonalBrandingOnline.com
Blog: http://personalbrandingblog.wordpress.com/

Tags: dan schawbel, elevator pitch, personal branding

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