Moving up the career ladder?

Just got a new job?

Started your business?

You need a be intentional about your personal brand.

Let’s do this simple exercise….type your name in your favourite search engine, and press the search button, what do you see?

Do you like what you see or can it be improved upon?

Branding is the perception of people concerning a subject. There are different types of branding, and the one we are focusing on here is personal branding.

When you think of your mentor, what are the words and mental images that come to your mind?

When people think of you, what are the things that come to their mind?

And so, here are 10 personal branding tips for creative professionals out there:

1. Find your niche: Know what you are good at and make you sure you work at it and learn all you can about it. If you are good at photography; work at it and learn more about photography. You can also go further to decide the type of photography you will specialize in, this is because it is not possible to do all the types of photography. You might need to decide on the ones you think you are good at and like. This could be wedding photography, portrait photography, product photography, etc.
2. Have an elevator pitch: If you meet someone you have always wanted to meet, what will you say? For instance, if you meet someone in your industry you have always wanted to meet today, what are the things you would say about yourself and what you do? You need to practice your elevator pitch and perfect it.
3. Choose the right name: some people prefer to use their own personal name, while others choose to use another name for their creative business. If you will be choosing another name, you need to make sure the name is simple, easy to remember, and that it communicates the right thing with the audience.
4. Get a website: Your website will serve as your portfolio, and it will give you a chance to tell your story, add value to others, carve a niche for yourself, showcase your skills, and so on. Whenever you search for your name in your favourite search engine, some of these content on your website may be seen in the search results.
5. Your logo and colours: Colours have meanings, you can look for the ones that communicate who you are and what your brand is about. Your logo should also follow suit.
6. Your bio is important: If you write for any publication or you are being invited to speak, your bio is needed. You need to ensure your bio adequately and effectively talks about you in a succinct way.
7. LinkedIn: Your LinkedIn is like your professional CV online. It is a great platform to showcase your skills and expertise and connect with people of similar interests with you.
8. Your professional photograph: Your professional portrait photograph is an essential aspect of your personal brand. You get to use it when you are being interviewed, invites for events, on your LinkedIn, and so on. You should ensure that your photograph sends out the right message.
9. Be an expert and add value: Read more, learn more, ask questions and improve yourself constantly.
10. Use social media: On social media is effective if you use it to your advantage the way you ought to. Make sure whatever you put out adds value, and also engage with your audience. Engagement and value are the currencies of social media.

Are you a creative professional? Do you brand your creative business? If yes, give us some tips below!