What Is a Personal Brand Strategy (And Why You Need One)

In order for the ability, creativity and intent behind your personal brand’s headshot to come through, it has to be all about what people think of the things that is you. If you run a company, design a book case or head up marketing for your company, then having a good personal brand can break down walls, open minds and shrink your own distance from the competition. But creating a personal brand that speaks to people requires not only a plan of action but consistent tension and focus over time.

This blog post will explain what exactly is a personal brand strategy, why it matters and how to start building one that reflects your unique strengths and values.

What is a Personal Brand Strategy?

A personal brand strategy is a deliberate plan. It should be something you go about implementing systematically — not just a one-off event. The process involves identifying your unique strengths, values and personality traits, and then conveying these consistently across many platforms and networks.

You could look at it a little like putting together an identity. Making you memorable involves more than just sticking in the minds of your target market however, a personal brand strategy will also clearly define what you are there to do in your audience’s eyes and establish yourself as an authority figure within the field.

Why Does a Personal Brand Strategy Matter?

1. It Builds Credibility and Trust

Your brand tells your story, and when done right, it creates trust. By consistently delivering valuable insights or demonstrating expertise, people are more likely to view you as a reliable resource.

2. It Sets You Apart

No matter what industry you’re in, competition is everywhere. A well-defined personal brand helps you stand out by highlighting what makes you unique. It becomes your professional “signature.”

3. It Attracts Opportunities

From collaborations to job offers, a strong personal brand makes it easier for the right opportunities to find you. Think of individuals like Simon Sinek or Marie Forleo, whose personal brands attract speaking, consulting, and business opportunities.

4. It Boosts Career Security

Traditional career paths are less predictable than they once were. By building a personal brand, you create a safety net, as your influence and connections become assets that can help sustain your trajectory, even during transitions.

Crafting Your Personal Brand Strategy in 6 Steps

Crafting an effective personal brand strategy involves more than updating your LinkedIn profile. Here’s how to build a brand that resonates:

1. Define Your ‘Why’

Start by asking yourself some foundational questions:

• What are your core values?
• What excites you in your professional life?
• What expertise or value do people consistently seek from you?

2. Identify Your Target Audience

Your personal brand won’t resonate with everyone, and that’s okay. Focus on the community or clients you want to connect with. For instance:

• Are you appealing to startup founders, corporate executives, or creatives?
• Is your target audience local, national, or international?

3. Define Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP)

Think about what sets you apart. This could be your expertise in a niche area, your storytelling abilities, or even a unique combination of skills and experiences. Ask yourself:

• What do you do exceptionally well?
• What problems can you solve for your audience?

4. Create a Content and Communication Plan

Once your brand identity and audience are clearly defined, your next step is to create a plan for engaging with them. This might include:

• Social Media: Share thought-leadership articles, videos, or posts on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok (depending on where your audience is).
• Blogging: Publish long-form content showcasing your insights or personal takeaways from industry trends.
• Speaking Opportunities: Participate in panels, webinars, or podcasts to physically connect with your audience.

5. Leverage Visual Branding

While personal brands are largely about substance, visuals play a critical supporting role. Invest in high-quality headshots, create a logo if it suits your goals, and use consistent fonts, colors, and visual styles on your materials.

Think about how all your visual elements—from your LinkedIn banner to your PowerPoint presentations—convey your value.

6. Engage With Your Community

A personal brand doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Engagement is essential for growth.

• Reply to comments on your posts.
• Reach out to build relationships with industry peers.
• Ask thought-provoking questions to start conversations.

Personal Brand Strategy Examples You Can Learn From

To help bring these strategies to life, here are some examples of individuals with exceptional personal brands:

1. Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee)

Gary Vee is relentless in his pursuit of helping entrepreneurs and businesses grow. He uses high-energy videos, no-nonsense advice, and constant engagement to position himself as both relatable and authoritative. His UVP? Hustle and authentic connection.

2. Brené Brown

Brené Brown has built an academic yet approachable personal brand focusing on vulnerability, empathy, and leadership. Her TED Talks, books, and consistent tone reinforce her credibility as a thought leader.

3. Adam Grant

A management professor with a flair for breaking down complex organizational psychology, Adam Grant shares thought-provoking ideas and research with his audience on LinkedIn, Twitter, and podcasts. His UVP is bringing science-based insights to practical leadership problems.

Pitfalls to Avoid While Building Your Personal Brand

While building your brand, be wary of these common mistakes:

• Trying to Be Everything to Everyone: Your brand should serve a specific audience and purpose, not the masses.
• Copying Others Excessively: It’s okay to take inspiration, but your brand should reflect your unique personality and expertise.
• Lack of Patience: Building a strong personal brand takes time. Consistency and persistence are key.

Final Thoughts on Personal Brand Strategy

Your personal brand is an investment in your future, and of course, yourself.Seeking to articulate your value system, reach out to them on their wavelength, and express what is unusual about you in such a way the message hits home naturally rather than just seeming forced, you have got a plan that not only rings true but also memorable too.

In fact, building a personal brand takes time, effort, and consistency. Start small. Then maintain it from there and watch for what develops as the opportunities begin to flow to you.

Are you tired of waiting to be discovered as a professional or artist? Then start planning your personal brand today and let us know how it’s going with a comment below!