By Angela Kambarian, Founder, Essential Communications
As a CEO, senior executive or business owner, you may think that when it comes to branding, your company should be the main focus. However, developing your personal brand is of equal importance and should always be high on your list of priorities. A recent study found that when C-Suite executives are active on social media and engage with their audiences, positive perception of the quality of their leadership increased from 45% to 75% within 12 months.
In my professional opinion, every business leader should build a personal brand that transcends their business. In fact, personal branding is the reason why CEOs like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk have such an impact and influence on the public. They created a solid, compelling and enduring brand – not just for their businesses, but also for themselves.
Of course educational credentials, certifications and industry expertise matter. So does a proven track record of success. However, the way you make people feel, the way you tell your story and connect with your audiences is equally important. If done well, CEO branding will make you memorable, trustworthy and downright likable in your industry. It will not only positively impact your image and reputation, but will also help you grow your company and take it to the next level.
You may follow the crucial tips below to create a strong personal brand as a business leader and set yourself apart from others.

1.Tie in your personal values
Please keep in mind that the CEO’s personal beliefs should have an impact on her / his professional brand. As a leader, you should take the time to clearly identify and communicate your values and strongly held beliefs. In fact, your values are the backbone of who you are – whether you are at home with your family and friends or at work with your colleagues and clients.
For example, if you are are fully committed to excellence and constantly striving for perfection, that can certainly count as a personal value and should be shared with the public. I suggest you pick three to five values you mostly identify with and make sure you incorporate them into your brand.
2. Focus on your expertise and differentiators.
As a business leader, your personal brand should be part of your experience, professional credentials and industry expertise. What information and insights can you share with people who are new to the field? What are you passionate about?
In addition, you should demonstrate that you deeply care about your colleagues, employees, customers, clients and vendors. Can you clearly define your unique attributes? What do you think makes you memorable? Do you consider yourself a visionary leader? Why? You can also differentiate yourself by having a unique, controversial or outspoken opinion. CEOs like Bill Ackman and Larry Ellison quickly made themselves known by sharing their opinions. Just make sure you proceed with caution and do it carefully and respectfully.
3. Consistency is key
Keep in mind that branding is an ongoing effort. One press release or thought leadership piece will not make much of a difference. Make sure you are writing blogs, speaking at conferences, recording podcasts, filming videos and posting your insights on social media on a regular basis. It’s important because with dedication and consistency, you will be able to boost your reputation and build a trusted name over time.
4. Investigate your online presence
It’s in your best interest to do some detective work and look up any old social-media profiles or comments. If you come across something “untowards” that no longer matches your current brand or something you are not particularly proud of, try to delete it. After all, you don’t want your clients or prospects to stumble across your old, long-forgotten MySpace page. In case you have a great deal of “regrettable content” lurking online, consider hiring an online reputation management service to help you take care of the problem. As soon as possible.
5. Update your “about” page
As you may know, the “about” page is often one of the first pages people visit when checking out a company’s website. Therefore, make sure yours includes updated bios, high resolution images, social media links. Bios should include all your biggest accomplishments, milestones, media hits and interviews, articles, speeches and awards. Your audience is more likely to trust you if they can get a sense of your company, its culture and team, as well as the personalities of its leaders.
Final thoughts:
Personal branding can provide you with a competitive edge, enhance your image, personality and voice that your prospects, customers and competitors will recognize. Let me assure you that as your personal brand awareness grows, your network will expand along with your business.
Ready to reignite your PR, content marketing or social media campaign?
Please email: angela@kambarian.com, visit http://www.kambarian.com or call (516) 724-4372 today. Let’s join efforts and find new ways to build your business. Looking forward to speaking with you!