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Your Personal Brand Exists—Are You Shaping It or Letting Others Define It?
Your personal brand is not just about visibility. It’s not about being the loudest voice in the room or constantly self-promoting. It’s about being recognised for the right things by the right people. Yet, many leaders and executives let their brand evolve by default rather than shaping it with intention.
The Four V’s of Personal Branding
To build a strong and credible personal brand, focus on these four pillars:
Visibility – Are you known by the right people?
Value – Do people clearly understand what you bring to the table?
Voice – Are you leading conversations or just reacting?
Veracity – Are you showing up with honesty and authenticity?
Without these four elements, your brand risks being shaped by others rather than reflecting your true strengths and expertise.
Is Your Work Speaking for Itself?
Many high-achieving professionals assume that delivering results, hitting targets, and being an expert in their field will automatically get them noticed. But here’s the truth: your work alone isn’t enough.
Neuroscience Insight: People form lasting impressions in just 1/10th of a second. Once an impression is made, the brain tends to confirm rather than challenge it. If you don’t actively shape your brand, others will do it for you.
For years, I believed my work alone would open doors. But when I transitioned from finance to coaching, I quickly realised that expertise without visibility wasn’t enough. I hesitated to put myself out there, fearing that personal branding meant self-promotion. The shift came when I reframed it—not as marketing myself, but as making it easy for the right people to see my value. Instead of focusing on self-promotion, I focused on sharing valuable insights. And as Adam Grant suggests, the most effective way to build influence is not by promoting yourself but by promoting ideas.
What Is Personal Branding, Really?
Your personal brand is the reputation you build through your leadership, communication, and contributions. It’s what people say about you and the ideas you share when you’re not in the room. Whether you shape it or not, people are forming perceptions based on how you show up.
The key is ensuring their perception aligns with how you want to be known.
Common Misconceptions That Hold Leaders Back
“My work speaks for itself.” → Not entirely. People need to see and understand your impact.
“I don’t like self-promotion.” → Personal branding isn’t about bragging; it’s about clarity and sharing ideas.
“I’m too private for this.” → You don’t have to be everywhere—just visible in the right places.
“I don’t want to be like ‘those people’ on social media.” → You don’t need to post constantly—just be present where it matters.
“I don’t have time for this.” → You’re already shaping your brand—whether you intend to or not. The key is making it work for you, not against you.
How to Test If Your Brand Is Working
Ask trusted colleagues: How would you describe me in three words? If their answer surprises you, your brand might not be as clear as you think.
Observe opportunities: Are you being recognised for what you want to be known for?
Check visibility: Do key decision-makers know your value?
If not, it’s time to refine how you show up.
Three Steps to Shape Your Brand with Intention
Define It – Get clear on what you want to be known for.
Align It – Ensure your actions, words, and presence reflect your intended brand.
Communicate It – Share your expertise where it matters.
Neuroscience Insight: The Halo Effect means that one strong positive association can shape how people perceive you in other areas too. Make sure your brand signals the right strengths.
You Can Stay Private & Still Make an Impact
Personal branding isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being intentional. You don’t have to be loud, but you do need to be present where it counts. The most successful leaders don’t leave their personal brand to chance; they shape it to build influence, open doors, and create opportunities.
Further Resources
TED Talk: Why Personal Branding is No Longer Optional – Rory Vaden
Book: The Brand You 50 – Tom Peters
Book: Give and Take – Adam Grant
Podcast: Branding for Leaders – The Tim Ferriss Show
🚀 Ready to shape your personal brand with intention? Let’s talk. I help leaders and executives navigate transitions—both internal and external. Refining your brand with clarity and purpose is a key part of that journey.
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