How to develop your own personal brand

14 August 2016 - 02:00 By Margaret Harris

What is a personal brand, and why do we each need one? Your personal brand is your reputation - it tells people what to expect when they meet or work with you.Carolann Edwards, the global director of learning and organisational development at Norton Rose Fulbright, calls it a promise."The world of work is very competitive. There are not enough jobs and opportunities for everyone who wants them. Having a good personal brand helps you stand out from the pack. It tells colleagues and clients what's unique and special about you and why they should opt to work with you rather than your competitors," she says.When your name is mentioned, a picture of "you - your attitudes, behaviour, values, strengths and weaknesses - pops into the speaker's and/or the listener's mind", says Edwards. "Take a proactive and entrepreneurial approach to building and maintaining your brand ."She has the following advice on establishing a personal brand:Work out what you want to be known for, and focus on meeting that goal; Know and promote your strengths; Work hard to neutralise your weaknesses; Deliver on your promises; and Prepare and deliver a strong elevator pitch - a 20-second speech that epitomises who you are and what you do that's special. ..

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.