Why Your Personal Brand is Vital to Get Ahead in Your Career

‘Your personal brand is your professional reputation in action—built on what you consistently communicate, how you show up, and the value you offer to others.’

‘What’s Brand Susanna?’ - a manager in my mid-20s asked me. I had NO idea! I was loud, sang in the office, was obnoxious, aggressive and saw things with blinkers. Probably what most mid-20-year-olds are like, or was it just me ;) 

I have only realised the weight of perception, communication and the importance of creating your personal brand later in my career life.

Over the last 5-8 years, I’ve been actively reflecting on my brand and the impression I want to leave on others, and how I can help others in the process. Building my brand is a continuous process. Even just today, I’ve been thinking about my business, what’s flowing/not, and how I want to engage with people, so that I shine bright in the process. Being a magnet. When you’re in ALIGNMENT with yourself, you attract people to you. Your BRAND will automatically act as a catalyst to drawing people towards you.

So what is a personal brand? 

A personal brand is the unique combination of skills, experiences, values, and personality that you project to the WORLD—essentially, it’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room. Ohhh.

What impression do you think you leave people with?

It’s the impression you leave on others, particularly in professional settings, and it influences how you're perceived, trusted, and remembered.

Why it’s important in a corporate environment:

1. Visibility

• You might be great at what you do, but if people don’t know who you are and what you bring to the table, you’ll likely get overlooked.

• A strong personal brand helps you stay top of mind for promotions, stretch assignments, and leadership opportunities.
  

2. Trust and Credibility

• A consistent, authentic brand builds trust with colleagues, clients, and decision-makers.

• It helps others feel confident in your ability to lead, influence, or take on more responsibility.
  

3. Differentiation

• In a competitive corporate environment, your personal brand sets you apart from others with similar technical skills or qualifications.

• It answers the unspoken question: Why you?
  

4. Influence and Leadership

• Leaders are often chosen not just for competence but for their ability to inspire and influence others.

• A strong personal brand helps position you as a thought leader or go-to expert in your domain.
  

5. Opportunities Find You

When you’re known for something valuable, opportunities tend to come to you—whether it’s an internal promotion, a speaking gig, or a high-profile project.

Which of these resonates with you? Or all of them perhaps?