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Standing out isn’t easy, especially in industries where women are navigating biases and barriers. That’s why having a personal leadership brand is so important. It’s your chance to show the world who you are, what you stand for, and the unique value you bring to the table. As Mark Schaefer says in his best-selling book, KNOWN. So, how do you build a personal brand? Let’s break it down.

What is Personal Branding Really?

Personal branding is the process of making your name and career stand out. It’s about showcasing specific strengths and delivering messages that stick with people. People at work will know, “oh I’ll ask Sue, she is known for her skills in this area.” Think of it as how you express and communicate your skills, personality, and values—whether you’re interacting in person or building your presence online. It’s your way of saying, Here’s who I am and what I’m all about. Here’s how to go about setting yourself apart with personal branding

1. Start with Your Core Values

Your leadership brand starts with what matters most to you. Think about your core values—those principles that guide your decisions and shape how you show up. Ask yourself: What do I stand for? What’s non-negotiable for me? Maybe it’s integrity, inclusivity, creativity, or resilience. Whatever it is, knowing your values helps keep your brand authentic and true to who you are.

2. Own Your Strengths

Here’s the thing: a lot of us downplay our skills or hesitate to talk about our achievements. But owning your unique strengths is key to standing out. Take a moment to reflect on what makes you great. Are you an amazing problem-solver? Do you excel at bringing people together? Are you great at turning big ideas into action? Figure out your superpowers and make sure they’re front and center in how you present yourself.

3. Create a Leadership Vision

Think big—what kind of leader do you want to be? What’s the impact you want to make? Your vision is like a North Star for your leadership brand. For example, if you’re passionate about mentoring, you can position yourself as someone who’s supportive and uplifting. Your vision helps guide your actions and shows others what you’re all about.

4. Show Up Consistently

Your brand isn’t just about your resume—it’s how you show up every day.

• Online Presence: Update your LinkedIn profile, share posts that reflect your expertise, and engage with content that aligns with your vision.
• In Person: Speak up in meetings, volunteer for leadership roles, and make sure your actions match the values you’ve defined. The more consistent you are, the stronger your brand becomes.

5. Be Authentic

Authenticity is everything. Learn from leaders you admire, but don’t necessarily copy their style—own yours. Share your story, including the challenges you’ve overcome. It’ll make you relatable and build trust with those around you. People connect with realness, and being genuine is what makes your brand stand out.

6. Stay Open to Feedback

Your leadership brand isn’t set in stone. It evolves as you grow. Ask for feedback from mentors, peers, or team members to see how you’re perceived and where you can improve. Use that insight to refine your brand and make sure it aligns with your goals.

7. Build Relationships That Matter

No one builds a leadership brand alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. Join professional groups, attend conferences, and connect with mentors or advocates who can help amplify your voice. Building relationships is just as important as building skills.

Wrapping It Up

Building a personal leadership brand as a woman takes confidence, self-awareness, and a little bit of boldness. Define your values, showcase your strengths, and don’t be afraid to be yourself. Remember, leadership isn’t just about the title—it’s about the impact you make. So go ahead and build a brand that’s authentic, bold, and unforgettable. You’ve got this!

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One-on-one virtual career coaching will help you build your personal brand, and make decisions and plan for your future based on your unique goals. Fill out my intake form to get started with leadership coaching!