In life we sometimes define ourselves by the position we hold rather than the person we are. It's much more about your own purpose and personal identity.
It is far more important to develop your own brand, as your position in life can change, and as a result, your brand can develop and grow. Therefore, if you attach your brand to your job, what will your brand be in the instance that you no longer have a job?
Things that will influence your personal brand include:
your confidence,
your values and
your behaviour.
We will discuss these notions and delve into how having a mentor can help.
Your Job Isn’t Necessarily Your Personal Brand
If you don't have a job, it does not mean you can't have a personal brand.
When you have the confidence, ability, insight and understanding of who you are and what you want to achieve, the position you hold is less important.
For example, the brand that you have developed is the values you share with your family and friends. These are going to stand you with strength and in good stead for the future ahead.
Your Confidence Will Impact Your Personal Brand
Everyone has a brand. You need to be confident within yourself so that your brand can be prominent and stand out from the crowd.
You need to understand the position you hold to know the impact you can create.
Your Values Will Impact Your Personal Brand
Your values are the core principles within your life that come naturally.
You need to establish your values by consciously exploiting your attitudes, beliefs, and non-negotiables in life. What are the lines you’re willing to cross and those you’re not?
Playing to the strengths of your values can give you the opportunity to make a significant impact on the world. This is the essence of who you are as a person rather than the position you hold.
Your Behaviours Will Impact Your Personal Brand
Your brand is exhibited through your behaviours, and your behaviours are informed by your values.
If your behaviours aren’t consistent with your values, they can send out mixed signals and damage your brand.
This is why it’s so important to know what your values are.
Why Having a Mentor Can Be Beneficial
You’re never too young or old or too experienced or inexperienced to have a mentor.
Choose a mentor who aligns with your values.
They will be able to provide insight into your reputation and what people perceive of you. Are your values being perceived as how you have intended?
A mentor provides a platform for discussions and suggestions, and they can offer valuable feedback, guidance and direction.
They can ensure that you remain aligned with your values so that you stay on brand.
Key Takeaways
Of the people around you and the world in which you live, you will be able to strike more purpose by focusing on the person you are as opposed to the position you hold.
While people do inevitably care about status, they are more drawn to who someone is as a person and their sincerity and integrity.
Having a great paying job with a high position in the company means nothing for your brand if your morals and values are unattractive.
Know your true values, and be confident in portraying them to the world.
A mentor who’s on the same page as you can hold you accountable and ensure you are staying true to your values in all spheres of life.