Personal Branding: More Than a Trend on Instagram

Personal branding. We’ve all heard of it, but if you’re not acquainted with it, it can give you….the ick. Here’s the thing: whether you like it or not, you have a personal brand. The real question is, are you shaping it intentionally or letting it take on a life of its own? The leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs we admire all have a clear, consistent brand that opens doors and builds trust. And in today’s noisy world, that’s exactly what helps you stand out.

Why Personal Branding Matters

Personal branding is more than just a polished LinkedIn profile or a great headshot—it’s the essence of who you are, what you stand for, and how others perceive you. It influences opportunities, career growth, and even the way people talk about you when you’re not in the room. And here’s a compelling reason to take it seriously: “67% of Americans say they’re willing to spend more on products or services from companies whose founders have a personal brand that aligns with their values.” That’s according to a study by the Brand Builders Group, and it proves that people don’t just buy products—they buy people they believe in.

Authenticity: The Foundation of a Strong Personal Brand

Nobody wants to connect with a carefully curated, overly polished and filtered version of you. People gravitate toward authenticity. The best personal brands are built on real stories, quirks, strengths, and even vulnerabilities. Instead of trying to fit into a mold, lean into what makes you uniquely you.

A strong personal brand isn’t about creating an image—it’s about amplifying the best, truest version of yourself. When you show up as the real you, you attract the right opportunities and connections effortlessly.

The Digital Tools That Elevate Your Brand

From dating apps to business websites, first impressions often happen online. The tools you use to showcase your personal brand matter just as much as the brand itself. Gone are the days when a paper business card or a well-written resume were enough. Now, you need dynamic, interactive ways to connect.

Take Viiision’s Digital Business Card, for example. (Am I a little biased? Sure. But I also haven’t found anything like it elsewhere.) Unlike traditional business cards, Viiision allows you to update your information in real-time, showcase your latest projects, and even connect with a global audience thanks to its multilingual capabilities. It’s not just a card—it’s like having a personal app that tells your story.

Of course, LinkedIn is another powerhouse for personal branding. It’s not just a place to post your resume; it’s where you establish thought leadership, build credibility, and form meaningful professional connections. If you’re not actively engaging there; posting insights, commenting on discussions, or sharing valuable content, you’re missing a huge opportunity. Other social media may fit for you, too, but stay away from platforms that aren’t authentic to who you are!  

Finding Your People: The Power of Community

Personal branding is truly about crafting a message and then sharing it with the right people.

The most successful personal brands don’t just shout into the void; they engage with communities that align with their goals and values.

• Pick the right platforms
  • Where does your ideal audience spend time? LinkedIn is great for B2B networking, while platforms like Twitter, Instagram, BlueSky, or industry-specific forums might be better depending on your field.  
• Be an active participant
  • Share insights, ask questions, and join conversations. Becoming a recognizable, valuable voice in your space does more for your personal brand than any polished “about me” page ever could.
• Build real relationships
  • Networking isn’t about collecting connections—it’s about cultivating them. Find ways to add value to others, whether that’s through introductions, advice, or collaboration.

Networking with Purpose

Speaking of networking,traditional networking can feel forced, awkward, and transactional. The key to making it work for you? Be strategic about it.

Set clear goals.

• Are you looking for mentorship?
• New clients?
• Industry insights?

Knowing what you want will help you build meaningful relationships rather than aimlessly collecting business cards.

Focus on quality over quantity. A smaller network of engaged, supportive people is far more powerful than a giant list of surface-level connections.

Follow up with intention. If you have a great conversation with someone, don’t let it end there. A thoughtful follow-up (beyond a generic LinkedIn request) can turn a casual connection into a lasting one.  

Your Brand is a Living, Breathing Thing

Your personal brand isn’t a “set it and forget it” thing—it evolves with you. As you grow in your career, gain new skills, and shift your focus, your brand should reflect that.

• Seek feedback
  • How do others perceive your brand? Don’t be afraid to ask mentors, colleagues, or even your audience for insights. –
• Stay current
  • Industry trends shift, and so should your approach. Make sure your digital presence and messaging evolve with the times.
• Showcase growth.
  • Your personal brand should reflect where you are but also where you’re going. Highlight new skills, projects, and experiences as you continue to build your career.

The Bottom Line

Personal branding isn’t about self-promotion—it’s about reputation, trust, and connection. When done right, it opens doors, attracts the right opportunities, and makes your professional journey feel more intentional. So embrace who you are, use the right tools to showcase it, and engage with the communities that matter. Your brand already exists—the power is in shaping it with purpose.

*Note: While I have a vested interest in Viiision, the insights shared in this article are based on industry trends and personal experience.*

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