Protecting your brand!

Personal brand is something that takes a long time to build and easily unraveled, if not treated with care.

Whether you are climbing the corporate ladder, starting a business, working towards becoming an influencer or just how you want others to think of you. You have to decide yourself, who you are and what does your personal brand stand for. Some tips below based on what I have observed over the years, where I have watched personal brands take a hit, including my own, early in my career.

Don't be the person who;

• Bitches and moans about everything and everyone in the office

• Does not leave with grace when they resign / leave a company

• Is a blocker of others - in particular other women , who might be someone you should be learning from. Those you do that to, will remember for ever. They may be your boss one day or be asked for their view / support of your promotion. That will not go well for you.

• Can't be happy for others good fortune. They may get the job over you - no matter how unfair this may feel - be gracious.

• Does not lean in to support others when someone needs a hand or emotional support. You might not have the time nor really want to, however be kind and make it about someone else.

• Sulks or makes excuses when something does not go right or a mistake made. Own it, learn from it and be open about it with others. You will earn far greater respect by doing this than complaining or trying to hide it.

• Spends time trying to be the most senior / smartest person in the room and then expect everyone else to go away and do the work. Deliver on what is expected of you and roll up your sleeves. You will lose all credibility if you are more focused on positioning how important you are, rather than sometimes being on the tools to help create the solution. I have observed this a number of times over the years. When I am asked if this type of person is ready for the next role, you know the answer.

• Is dishonest in any shape or form - it will catch up with you and depending how significant, your reputation may never recover .

There are many examples of what not to do. If you are kind, considerate, authentic, work hard and invest time in being the best you can be, your personal brand will develop as you need it do. Be the person you are proud to be.

Until next time Lisa