Major Fortune 500 Companies hire brand strategists, marketing consultants and research professionals to help them build, maintain and monitor their brand image. A company’s brand has a lot to do with its reputation, how it is perceived in the marketplace and how much cache its logo carries. Think of Nike’s “just do it” marketing campaign and what it did for the Nike brand. Get the point? In the same way, we each are our own walking advertisements, our own personal brand, which sells, markets and conveys information about our credibility, intelligence, self image, and confidence. All these factors impact our own reputation and image in the eyes of others. What does your image say about your personal brand? Hopefully you convey an image that says: "I’m trustworthy, approachable, confident, assertive, commanding, competent, intelligent…” and not “I’m dishonest, lacking in confidence, have low self esteem, incompetent, insecure…” or a host of other “image saboteurs” that can ruin your reputation and your success in the world. Your appearance and all that goes with it is the secret weapon that can enhance your personal brand. But this is only successful to the extent you make conscious choices about your image to ensure you create a credible, memorable, effective, consistent and positive personal brand. At Élan Image Management, we coach our clients by helping them asses the current state of their image and advise them on steps they can take to align their image with their goals. Typically we have them answer a few questions to get them started, such as:
- What brand image do I want to convey?
- Are my clothes and appearance consistent with this image?
- If yes, what can I do to further refine my image?
- If not, what can I do to create an image aligned with my goals?
Answering these questions is typically a defining moment for many clients and a start in a transformational image journey. Personal branding hinges upon establishing a reputation for yourself, showcasing what differentiates you from others, and conveying the unique ‘value add’ you bring to a situation. Look for an upcoming post on developing a signature look.
Natalie Jobity Elan Image Management
