These days, everyone is a brand—whether or not they intend to be. It is essential to cultivate a strong personal brand in the modern landscape—and equally essential to start that process offline.
Here is the first step of my proven effective recipe to set you up for success.
Ask 5-10 people: "In your opinion, what are the three top things* that stand out to you about me?" I highly encourage you to carry out this step in person whenever possible. When thinking of who to ask, try to get as wide a variety as possible. Friends? Family? Coworkers? Clients? You should speak with all of them.
Let them know that you are going through a process that calls for the sit down as a means to develop professionally. Try to avoid saying the words "personal brand/ing" until they've given you their thoughts.
The question is strategically open to interpretation. I asterisked "things" because you may choose to play around with language like attributes, strengths, or differentiating factors. The power of "things" is that it is purposely vague and allows for more free form—and at times unexpected—answers. You can always follow up with the words above—and others of your own—if the person you're speaking with is seeking clarity. You can also rephrase the question if you find that helps, but I caution you against traveling any distance down that road (you don't want to accidentally lead them somewhere they wouldn't have gone or, worse yet, away from an unexpected golden nugget). Some people might ask if they should answer on a personal or professional level. Greet that question with a happy: "Yes!" Both will inform your brand strategy.
Guide your interviewees to answer with their gut responses. If they work with you a lot or know you well, they have spent time thinking about it—if not intentionally, or even consciously. The gut (rather than a more thoughtful response) is best because it is neither edited nor regulated—and therefore usually closest to the truth. You may find that a few days after your sit down, your interviewee reaches back out to you with, "Oh, I realized I didn't say you're [really-important-thing]." This is worth taking note of, but doesn't need to be prompted—it's a naturally occurring part of the process for many (though not all).
If you get through 10 interviews and are feeling like you need more, go for it. In this case, more is never less.
Remember that this is a process and can feel uncomfortable at times. That is normal.
Questions? Comments? Freaking out or just need more support? Use the comments section (that’s what it’s there for!) or tweet me @AliMercier, and I’ll be happy to help.
Originally published on LinkedIn.