Webster’s Dictionary defines a brand as 1) to make an indelible impression on the memory/senses; 2) an association of positive qualities with a widely recognized name, as of a product line/celebrity. Essentially your brand is something that represents you AND shares how you impress on the world. Your brand is what shows up before you get to the room, is with you in the room, and is there long after you leave the room. Your brand is what represents who you are, what you do, and why you are and it is to be protected at all costs.
Believe it or not, you are your brand. Don’t believe me? Let’s look at a certain unnamed celebrity. Said celebrity has successfully played a beloved father figure for several years on television. America became accustomed to seeing this person as a father figure – developing the ‘father figure’ brand. Years later, long after the show has been in syndication, this father figure is allegedly accused of indiscretions with several women. How could a father – this father – be accused of such things? America is shocked beyond belief because the ‘father figure’ brand was implanted in our psyche. So remember, as you go to school, get your first job, get married, raise your children, serve in your church, open your business – you are your brand.
Your brand is made up of more than who you are. It is also what you do. You know that one person who shows up late to every function even though they are told to be there 30 minutes earlier than everyone else? Their brand is ‘late’. How about that individual who no matter what stops what they are doing to give a homeless person a pair of socks or pauses in what they are doing to give candy to a child? Their brand is ‘giver’. What you do and how you show up in a space with others is how your brand is perceived by others. Your actions speak loudly to your brand and its effect on others extends your brand beyond that singular point in time.
Your brand is who you are, and what you are, but also why you are. Your brand is an extension of what makes you tick. The things that make us ‘tick’ are the things that began impacting us at a very early age. Your parents, siblings, and extended family are a part of developing your brand. Your time in college, first job, and first failure were all a part of developing your brand. All of the people you came in contact with and all of the experiences you encountered develop you into the person you are.
Your personal brand is made up of who, what, and why you are. As you embark on starting/growing a business, your brand transcends your business and represents not only you but the business you are building. Take heed of the things that affect your brand because those things will eventually impact your bottom line.
Learn more about Dawn Jones at www.29elevenmedia.net
Twitter: @29ElevenMedia
