Reflections of a Square Peg

The 'Art' of Personal Branding

So just how original can you be with your personal brand?

How about to the point where you (i.e. your own DNA) IS the piece of art?

DNA11.com, a Canadian based company, has developed a process to collect your DNA and then turn it in to a one off piece of art. They also do the same with your fingerprints.

Perhaps this is the ultimate in displaying your personal brand!

Is Personal Branding Just About Image?

To some the answer is yes. To most of us in the world of personal branding absolutely not.

But, it was not until I worked with an image consultant (Amy Casson of Polished Image) that I realised how critical it really was - it can sometimes be the difference between success and failure.

You know how great you feel when you are in your favourite suit or outfit (think about when you have an important meeting or interview you always reach for THE outfit) it can make the difference between sealing the deal and feleing so so about the meeting.

A recent article in the Globe & Mail reminded me how important it is to look (and feel) from your head to your toes - this Italian showmaker written about is a perfectionist and a master craftsman and the journalist could almost think he was not wearing shoes - and the shoes were initialled.

Now just how great would that make you feel?

How do you Exude your personal brand?

Are you doing enough to stand out from the crowd in your exchanges with people?

In a meeting most of us will present business cards, perhaps even give someone a promotional item with our company logo on and if its something a little more formal or special perhaps even a gift.

But does any of this refelct your personal brand?

Certainly in the work that I do with executive and professional women we always look at the various aspects of their brand environment, and that includes business materials, logo, colours and fonts. But many women like to add a personal touch and this is a great opportunity to really make your brand memorable.

The former Prime Minister of Canada, Jean Chretien,  gave out personal golf balls - he loved the sport (although did get mixed up in a local buisness deal with a golf club that was questioned - not so good for the personal brand!), but there was always a suggestion that the golf ball was also a touch of his elitist nature.

Stephen Harper the current PM however chooses to be more 'on brand'. He certainly portrays the family man persona and is a known fan of hockey (even sneaking out from official engagements to catch the latest scores or even a game or two!), rumour is he is writing a book on the sport.

So in his meetings he gives out hockey pucks - very on brand for him and very on brand for Canada.