5 Myths About Personal Branding You Need to Know

Personal branding is a topic that is becoming more popular these days but there are misconceptions or myths that surround your brand identity which are good to discuss here.

This is an important concept to grasp but it's important to understand what it isn't.

Myth #1: If you have a logo, you have a brand. Having a logo can become a representation of you, your products or services but it isn't your personal brand.

Who you are and what you represent, both positive and negative are factors that play an important role in how potential customers think of you.

Having a logo, merely creates an image associated with your brand that when seen repeatedly becomes a trigger for people to remember who you are and what you do.

Having a catchy and appropriate logo can be very good for your business as long as it is congruent with your personal brand.

There's no need to spend millions or even thousands to have your own logo created. Remember, it is a representation and a visual cue for others to think about you and your business or what you are offering.

Myth#2: Your Unique Selling Proposition is your Personal Brand. Having a unique selling proposition (USP) is certainly important when differentiating yourself from the competition, but 'it' alone is not your personal brand.

What makes you different from others in your business? Why should customers buy from you and not the next guy? What do you do that is better or more efficient? What extra touch or service do you provide that sets you apart?

Having a USP can serve you well and if you are consistent and congruent with your USP, this can end up being part of your overall personal brand.

Myth#3:Personal Branding is about Ego. If you think that your personal brand is all about "YOU" and telling everyone just how great you are...think again.

Branding is about your customers, viewers, and your audience or target market. Your target market is your audience and it is how they perceive you, your service or product that is in fact your personal brand.

The impression your audience has of how you deliver the goods, promises or services is key. Did you get them delivered on time? How are your interactions with your audience? Are you friendly? Do you provide support?

Myth#4:Once you define your Personal Brand, the hard work is done. If only that were so...Defining your brand is really just the beginning. It helps you to formulate in your mind what you hope others will perceive as well. Then you might assume that if they do this, then all your worries are over.....Wrong.

Being consistent is very important. Otherwise, your audience will not perceive you in the way you intend. As an example, if you say you will deliver your service or product on time and you don't, you are not consistent. This will affect your brand in the eyes of your target market.

Myth#5: Once you have your brand you don't have to communicate it with anyone. They will find you. This is untrue. You do have to communicate it with your target market but not the world.

The 'scatter gun 'approach isn't effective. What is effective is reaching your target market, specific to your niche, product and services.

Incorporating your logo and tag line on your websites, blogs, articles, and emails to your target market can over time, help your business grow.