February
17, 2021
3 min read
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The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged and changed the way businesses operate, possibly forever. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the importance of how your clients and potential clients perceive your accomplishments, your personality, your approach, and the quality of your work.
Your personal brand (the sum total of the above factors and others) remains more important than ever because it is the ultimate source of your credit. It is therefore important to know how to unlock your full potential.
Credit originates from Latin To believe means belief or confidence. Obtaining credit (financial or interpersonal) therefore depends on your credibility. If you manage to condition your credibility into a personal brand, you will give your business a boost in 2021.
Here are three key principles for a successful personal branding to project you and your business towards business success in 2021.
See also: Personal Branding: The Key to Success in the Digital Age
1. Promote your brand
Personal branding expert Gary Vaynerchuk says you have to “be 100% authentic”, but first you have to identify who it is.
Create online profiles on at least two entrepreneur-friendly platforms (e.g. Instagram and LinkedIn) and focus on developing an authentic, customer-oriented bio. Your bio should also showcase your business philosophy and exude authenticity.
Make sure the content is presented in a professional manner throughout the process, including high resolution photos and quality social media banners and graphics for your profiles.
Showcase that personal brand through your social media presence, supported by your online presence through a bespoke website and local presence – what people are saying about you.
See also: Why building a personal brand is more important than ever
2. Address an appropriate target audience
Kylie Jenner might not be your favorite viewer, but she’s an entrepreneur you should watch out for.
She has her target audience clearly in her sights: The following market research Keeping up with the Kardashians told her team to focus on the group of “women ages 18-38” and she saturates the media consumed in that tribe.
It markets in a way consumable by this group through visual media, consumer goods centered on women and appealing to the lived experiences of women.
Identify your audience, then plan and operationalize your marketing strategy.
See also: How to strike a balance between personal and professional social media
3. See the development of your personal brand as a long-term investment.
Patience is a virtue – often the big deal or breakthrough in your business comes long after you’ve done the groundwork, promoted your personal brand, and built the relationships. Good things happen to those who wait.
Developing a complete and credible personal brand will facilitate engagement with your target audience, which will produce continued results and returns.
See also: Why personal branding is a secret weapon
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