Crafting your personal branding: Why it matters 

The best way to predict the future is to create it

Over the past six months, I’ve been sharing branding and communication tips, covering everything from personal interactions to workplace dynamics. If you’ve been following my insights, I hope you’ve found them valuable. If not, feel free to explore my previous sharings here!

In recent articles, I have emphasised the importance of investing effort in both visual and vocal aspects of communication. It’s not just about appearances and attire; it’s also about effective communication. Let me explain why it truly matters. 

While making a strong first impression by presenting yourself at your best is crucial, consistency remains the key to maintaining the authenticity of who you are. That includes how you carry yourself and present to your loved ones, family, and friends. Moreover, everything you say or share on social media contributes to the perception of how you want others to perceive you. Don’t believe me? Try Googling your own name and you will likely find thousands of search results. 

“Fuihhh” — I hear you! Internally, you might be relieved that there aren’t many Google search results associated with your name. But can you guarantee that it won’t change down the road? For someone more prominent, the chances of appearing on that Google page could be extensive. 

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, once said, “Your brand is what people say about you when you are not in the room.” I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment. 

So, what is personal branding? Personal branding involves a deliberate process of defining who you are and what you stand for. Imagine it as an ongoing effort to shape how others perceive you, influencing the values, interests, and skills they associate with your name. Each of us possesses unique experiences, skills, and values, setting us apart in a sea of individuals.

In today’s digital age, people frequently use social media, blogs, and websites to showcase their personal brand. Unbeknownst to many, they have already begun shaping their brand identity. So, whether consciously or inadvertently, your personal branding is already in motion.

And here is the question: Do you want the accumulation of your online words to define who you are, or would you rather take the lead today, shaping the narrative of how you want to be perceived through your actions and words?

Let’s explore some examples from the world of celebrities. Kim Soo Hyun, the main actor in the global hit drama “Queen of Tears”, has crafted an image of sweetness and hard work, endearing himself to fans worldwide. Rain (Jung Ji-hoon), another K-pop sensation, has built a brand around being a loving husband and father. His devotion to his wife and family values shines through, making him a relatable figure beyond his music career. Now, consider Song Joong Ki, who gained fame through his role in “Descendant of The Sun”. His positive branding took a hit when he divorced his ex-wife, leading to speculation and rumours about his character. 

Closer to home, Jimmy Choo, our very own Malaysian designer, has masterfully crafted his personal brand through global achievements in luxury fashion. His exquisite, handcrafted shoes and accessories have not only elevated his status but also put Malaysia on the fashion map. Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza, Malaysia’s top pop singer and businesswoman, meticulously built her personal brand through her talent, grace, and entrepreneurial spirit. And who can forget Henry Golding, hailing from Sarawak, who captivated hearts of many when he played the role of Nick Young in “Crazy Rich Asians”. Since then, he has starred in other blockbusters, demonstrating the immense impact of personal branding.

You might think that personal branding is for the famous, but the truth is it is for everyone including you and me. Now, let’s shift the spotlight to me: most people who know me personally or follow me on social media are aware that I am a communication and public relations (PR) strategist. My passion for communication, expressing PR ideas, and helping brands establish credibility are practically in my DNA. Additionally, I am an avid writer, which is why I’m here.

Now, it’s your turn to reflect: what and how do you want others to perceive you. Whether you wear the hat of an employee, employer, spouse, daughter, or anyone else, cultivating your personal brand matters more than ever.

Remember, honesty and authenticity will set you apart in the long run. Keep it real, and don’t lose sight of your true self. You never get a second chance to make a first good impression. So, make it count and let your true self shine.

The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune.