DEFINE YOUR BRAND, DESIGN YOUR LIFE

You know the Mac computer
commercial that features the hip Mac guy and the stuffed shirt PC man?   Computer preferences aside (and I'll cop to being an elitist Mac snob) Apple has cleverly personified their brand
in that spot.  That is,
they’ve successfully communicated their style, uniqueness and customer appeal.

Just like the cheeky Mac and straight arrow PC, we are all
brands.  Whether you’re a
stay-at-home mom, corporate employee or small business owner, you have a
reputation and image.  As much as
you may balk at being commoditized, you can either define your personal brand
or have one assigned to you by others. 

Here are five strategies to help you define your personal brand:

1. Understand that you are your brand, so it must be consistent with
   your authentic values, gifts and goals.
2. Stand out from the crowd by identifying what
   makes you unique and memorable.
3. Craft an “elevator speech,” that is, an
   introduction brief enough to deliver on a short elevator ride that answers
   the question, “So what do you do?”
4. Broadcast your brand by taking the risk to speak
   up at social events, community function and networking meetings.
5. Expand your brand by continuing to set goals for
   personal excellence and continuous improvement.

When you’ve defined your emotionally authentic personal brand, you
can design your life around who you are and what you want.  And by learning to boldly strut your
stuff and speak your spin, without the least hint of arrogance, you’ll shine
the spotlight on your unique talents. 

Libby Gill is a personal coach and branding expert. For a complimentary coaching consultation, contact Libby at Libby@LibbyGill.com.