If you don’t show up you won’t be seen. Aside from a flash of the obvious, showing up is the key for building your brand, reputation and gaining trust with others.
Yes, keep building your personal brand online but don’t forget that your personal brand is also very important to build and sustain.
The entire world has not shifted to function digitally. Just like you can’t judge a book by its cover, you can’t evaluate a person only by their blog, Instagram, FB and Twitter posts alone. Having a virtual identity is more important than ever and will only continue to grow. However, as human beings we have an instinctive, deep need for personal relationships and connection.
To gain a following and become noticed and respected, say less and provide more content and information of value and substance. Freely share content and information you come across that has meaning and provides valuable information, AND, tell us what you think. We’re interested in your opinion if its objective and balanced and not only a put down of others. Communicate your ideas in a professional, logical, objective manner to get us thinking and considering new and interesting options and perspectives.
Be vulnerable and real. We trust people that don’t try to look like they have it all together – you’ll remind us more of ourselves that way and we’ll trust you.
Ensure you don’t have to apologize for what you’ve posted when we meet you in person. Please spare us your rants and expletive laden commentaries about how you are right and everyone that disagrees with you is a fool. They’re not.
Building a balanced brand starts by defining what you want to be known for, virtually and in person. If your followers meet you in person, the genuine you will be revealed.
Our perception of you either declines if you’re not as advertised, or gets stronger if everything we’ve read and heard aligns when we meet you.
Personal Presence Builders:
- First Impressions (you only have seconds make it good)
- Presence – be noticed for your appearance, style and professional presentation
- Deportment – posture, smile, kindness, behaviours
- Manners – use them and don’t embarrass yourself or us
- Engagement – contribute and add value
- Eye contact – look me in the eye – that builds trust
- Hand shake – firm not loose, crushing or sweaty
If you don’t own the room someone else will.
If you are interested in finding out more information about this topic, read this blog and watch this short video.
