Social media isn’t just a platform; it’s a potent tool for shaping your personal brand.
With a staggering 5.35 billion users worldwide and Australians spending over 1 hour and 51 minutes daily on social media, these platforms influence how we present ourselves. Whether you’re seeking a job, aiming to expand your business, or want to leave a lasting impression, honing your social presence is not just important; it’s crucial.
What Is Personal Branding?
Personal branding goes beyond a polished LinkedIn profile or carefully curated Instagram grid. It’s about showing up online authentically and with purpose. As Gary Vaynerchuk says, “Social media has transformed our world into one great big small town.” In this digital small town, success hinges on relationships, authenticity, and the digital equivalent of good old-fashioned word-of-mouth. Being authentic is not just a choice, it’s a necessity.
At its core, personal branding is about answering two questions:
- Who are you?
- What value do you bring to others?
The Psychology of Sharing
Why do people hit “share”? It’s simple: they want to express themselves, connect with others, or spread something they find entertaining or meaningful. To craft a personal brand people care about, you must offer something worth sharing.
Ask yourself:
- Does my content entertain, educate, or inspire?
- Am I sharing content that aligns with my values and speaks to my audience?
Authenticity: The Core of Personal Branding
If there’s one rule to follow, it’s this: Be real. Authenticity doesn’t mean oversharing every detail of your life—it means showing up as yourself. It’s about starting genuine conversations, engaging with your community, and sharing content that resonates with your audience.
But authenticity alone isn’t enough. Pair it with purpose. You’ll build trust and credibility when you understand why you’re online and what you’re trying to achieve. Trust is the ultimate currency of personal branding, and purpose is the compass that guides you towards it.
Optimising Your Brand: Best Practices
Ready to level up? Here are the building blocks of a standout personal brand:
- Consistency is key
Use the same name, profile picture, and tone across all platforms to make yourself instantly recognisable. - Define your niche
Focus on 1–3 areas of expertise. You don’t have to be everything to everyone—specialising helps you stand out. - Engage with your community
Join groups, participate in chats, and comment on posts in your industry. Visibility is your best friend. - Strategic posting
Spread your content evenly across your preferred platforms. Stay active and consistent.
The Benefits of a Strong Personal Brand
Building a robust personal brand pays off in big ways:
- Attract your ideal clients or land dream job offers
- Boost your credibility and gain recognition
- Open doors to leadership opportunities and partnerships
- Increase your perceived value and authority in your industry
What to Avoid
Even the strongest brands can falter. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Inappropriate content: Posts about illegal substances or anything overly sexual can damage your reputation (and 78% of recruiters agree!).
- Poor grammar or inconsistencies: A polished presence goes a long way.
- Overposting or constant selling: Nobody likes a one-person ad campaign.
Meg’s Hot Takes for Personal Branding
- Understand Your Audience: Who are you talking to, and what do they care about?
- Theme Your Content: A consistent theme creates a memorable story.
- Be Creative: Use visuals that stop the scroll, design for sound-off viewing, and prioritise accessibility.
- Tell a Story: Don’t just sell—share experiences, insights, and moments that connect with your audience.
Final Thoughts: Build, Refine, and Grow
Your personal brand isn’t static—it’s a work in progress. Show up consistently, engage authentically, and keep refining your approach. With strategy and purpose, social media can be the ultimate tool for transforming how the world sees you.
The world is watching—make your mark.
Like what you’ve read? Want me to speak to your team about personal branding? Get in touch!
