On average, we make 80,000 introductions in our lives. As the world becomes more interconnected, this number is set to rise, making it increasingly difficult to stand out.
You really are 1 in 7 soon to be 8 billion, but building your personal brand is an important step to take in ensuring everyone else how unique you are. Not only does it allow you to be recognised, others will find your sincerity attractive and you'll find yourself doing what you love with similar people. As the CEO of a Flower Delivery startup, I make sure I meet at least 15 people every week, it can be anyone, but I make sure it happens. Here are 6 personal brand hacks you can start with today to grow your personal brand.
1. Think fast and act slow
Acting rationally shows that you're in control. When something goes wrong, it's easy to show your frustration. Don't, always take a deep breath. Process information slowly, understand the situation, then decide on what the best course of action is. The tip here is to always maintain a perspective and be well-grounded, don't get emotional.
2. Dress the part
Dress for the job you want, not the one you already have. As much as I hate to admit it, even before you shake someone's hand, people make a quick subconscious judgement on how you carry yourself. And remember, no matter what you have to tell someone, everything sounds better through a smile!
3. Be early to everything
This is crucial - it forms an instant trust. Being punctual to meetings shows you're dependable, you keep promises and so builds trust from the get go.Consider being on time as being late. Always think 5 minutes ahead - if you're less than 5 minutes early you're already late!
4. Respond to emails quickly
Perception is reality. The vast majority of the people you are emailing, you don't know well. How do you stand out from the hundreds of emails they get each day? Respond instantaneously. Make yourself stand out.
Respond to emails whenever you can. If it's right before going to bed at 2.59 am after watching a midnight movie, people will assume you've been working the entire time. Like I said, perception is reality.
5. Always follow up
The number one trait that Paul Graham from Y Combinator looks for is determination. Follow up, show your determination and never take no for an answer.
It's a low investment that reaps high rewards. People value persistence; it shows determination, motivation, and enthusiasm.
6. Guest posts
This is crucial for personal branding and is a way to gain a lot of credibility. You've got to create something that is equal parts engaging, insightful, and interesting. Your aim is to get people to want to hear what you have to say.
Reach out to a new publication a week and try to commit to continuous posts for the ones you've already written for. At first, you'll find guest posting time-consuming. But you'll be a pro in no time, creating a strong digital presence that reaches broader audiences.