In the last 2 or 3 years, I’ve noticed that the term “personal brand” has been popping up more and more on social media. Working as a branding photographer, I’ve not only witnessed the rise in interest in personal branding, but I’ve also actively played a part in helping individuals and businesses uncover and develop their unique personal brands. I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of individuals and businesses across different industries to build captivating visual identities for their brands. Some of them have become long-term partners, and it’s been an absolute joy to witness their brands evolve and flourish.

When I’m working with my clients, especially when we’re in the process of crafting their personal brands and strategizing content that perfectly aligns with their brand identity, I always stress that personal branding goes beyond marketing. It’s a tool that allows you to authentically express who you are, effectively communicate your values, and create a narrative that resonates with your audience. This narrative encompasses every facet of your brand, from the uniqueness of your personality and the values you hold dear to the distinct tone of your voice, your signature style, the colors that represent your brand, the carefully selected images that tell your story, and the way you present yourself online.

What’s Personal Branding Again?

Personal branding is all about you – who you are, the promise you make to your audience, and the relationship you build with them. It’s the mental image that comes to mind when people think of you, reflecting your values, personality, expertise, and those special qualities that set you apart from the rest. Your personal brand is also a promise – it tells people what they can expect when they engage with you and your services or products. Your visual branding is the portrayal of your story, values, and expertise. It makes a lasting and memorable impression on your audience, enriching the recognition and influence of your personal brand. So, when we talk about personal branding, we’re talking about the authentic you and how you visually express it to create a meaningful connection with your audience.

 

The Building Blocks of a Personal Brand

Building a personal brand is about creating a consistent and authentic representation of yourself and your business. Here are some important elements that make up a solid personal brand, each contributing to the overall impact of your brand identity:

1. Unique Personality

Your personality is your most valuable asset. Your quirks, your passions, your values – they all contribute to what makes you, well, you. Embracing your unique personality is what sets you apart from the crowd. When working with my clients, I encourage them to showcase their authentic selves. 

 

2. Values

Your core values are the guiding principles that steer your life and business. Your personal brand should align with these values. For instance, if personal relationships are a core value, your brand can include details and memories with family and friends, such as using family heirlooms in your photos. By demonstrating your commitment to your values, you not only attract like-minded individuals but also build trust and credibility within your niche.

 

3. Colors

Colors evoke emotions and associations. Your choice of colors in your branding materials, website, and your personal style can influence how people perceive you. Think about a social media manager whose brand colors are soothing blues and calming neutrals. This choice may convey a sense of calm and approachability. In contrast, vibrant, bold colors could reflect energy and dynamism. Be mindful of the emotions you want to evoke in your audience when selecting your brand’s color palette.

 

4. Wardrobe

Your wardrobe is usually an overlooked aspect of personal branding. What you wear can be a powerful visual cue. Your wardrobe choices can become synonymous with your brand. Make sure to choose your wardrobe in alignment with your brand colors. Your wardrobe should mirror your brands’ colors and values. For some tips on how to choose your wardrobe for your personal brand, check out this blog, “What To Wear To Your Personal Branding Photoshoot?“

 

6. Photos

High-quality thought-out images are your primary tool for conveying your personal brand. When working with clients, I ensure that their photos tell a consistent story. For example, if you’re a chef who is known for their farm-to-table philosophy, your photos should showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and your for cooking.

The Benefits of Building A Strong Personal Brand in 2023

1. Consistency and Recognition: When you maintain a uniform image and message across all your business interactions, you become more memorable. You want your brand images and symbols to be etched into your audience’s consciousness. When your personal brand is consistent, people come to associate you with a particular set of values, qualities, or expertise. For example, think of  a local entrepreneur who runs a cozy neighborhood bakery. Her personal brand consistently reflects her commitment to homemade pastries. Over time, her regular customers come to expect a certain quality and flavor profile that’s unique to her bakery. This consistency not only keeps her customers coming back but also spreads word-of-mouth recommendations, effectively building her reputation within the community.

2. Professional Trust:  Think about the professionals you trust in your life, be it your go-to healthcare provider, financial advisor, or a favorite restaurant. Trust is the cornerstone of these relationships, and a well-constructed personal brand radiates trustworthiness. Just like a doctor’s white coat or a lawyer’s formal attire signifies professionalism, your personal brand signals that you’re serious about what you do. Trust is at the core of enduring client relationships, whether you’re a healthcare professional, lawyer, consultant, or any other service-oriented career. It goes beyond the service or product you provide; it’s about the belief that you will consistently deliver on your promises and act in the best interests of your clients. This trust can lead to long-lasting client relationships and a positive reputation that precedes you in your field.

 

3. Differentiation: Your personal brand is your unique selling proposition. It showcases what makes you special, why you’re different from the competition, and why you’re the choice for your client. Your personal brand can help you carve a niche in your industry or field by emphasizing what makes you exceptional. Whether you’re an artisan crafting handmade goods, a consultant offering a unique approach to problem-solving, or an artist with a distinctive style, your personal brand is what guides those who resonate with your uniqueness toward you. It’s the reason clients or customers choose you over others and keep coming back for more.

 

4. Attracts the Right Audience: Your personal brand should act as a magnet for your ideal audience. When your brand resonates with your values and addresses the needs and desires of your target clients or customers, you naturally attract the right people. The alignment between personal brand and target audience creates a deeper, more meaningful connection. Clients feel understood and supported, and they’re more likely to stay engaged and loyal. Because you’re attracting those who resonate with your values and offerings, your marketing efforts become more efficient. You’re not casting a wide net and hoping for a catch; you’re speaking directly to the people who are most likely to become your loyal clients or customers. This precision in attracting the right audience not only saves you time and resources but also builds a solid foundation for lasting relationships. If you need any tips on how to identify the right audience for you, check out this blog, “4 Things You Need To Focus On For Your Branding Session.“

 

5. Enhanced Credibility: Your personal brand positions you as an authority in your field. Consistently sharing your knowledge and insights builds trust and credibility. Building credibility through your personal brand can lead to opportunities that extend beyond your current role or business. It can result in speaking engagements, media features, and partnerships that further enhance your reputation and open new avenues for professional growth. Your personal brand serves as the cornerstone of your credibility, reinforcing your expertise and authority in your chosen field.

 

Your personal brand is an essential aspect of your professional success. By embracing your unique personality, values, voice, wardrobe, colors, photos, and online presence, you can create a personal brand that ensures your business’ continued growth and resonates with your target audience. If you would love to learn more about how you can build your personal brand, reach out to me at info@monikanormandphoto.com