3 ways to create an unforgettable personal branding image
According to the U.S. Census Bureau 59,490 new business were started in just 2020 alone (source census.gov). So how can you compete and stand out from all the noise that is constantly generated online? A great place to start is to create an approachable, authentic and visually pleasing personal brand. I am sure most of you heard a phrase “A picture is worth a thousand words”. This quote is over 100 years old yet it is more relevant today than ever. Current research shows that we are a visual culture and our visual messages create more powerful memories than words alone. But in order for your images to covey the right message they must align with your authentic brand values. People are tired of same old ads that sell, sell and sell. The new trend of consumers has emerged and they want to purchase from those they connect with, like and trust. Your customers are savvy and can sense wether you truly care about the product or service you are creating or if you are in it just for the money. Obviously you are in business to make a living and that is understandable but genuinely caring about your customers needs will create a loyal and raving fan base. Yes I know it sounds cliche but what is often common sense is not often common practice.
If you look about at one of the most successful entrepreneurs such as Oprah what comes to mind? I am sure an image of a genuine, caring and inspirational person comes to mind and most people would buy almost anything she promotes because they trust her. But Oprah didn’t create her empire by hiding, she is always front & center on your TV screen, on covers of magazines, RP articles and the list goes on. She truly mastered the art of personal branding. And you can too! The following step below can give you a few ideas on how to start creating your personal band. I worked with many entrepreneurs and small businesses over the last 7 years and the ones that become successful long term use these methods consistently.
1.Create a Mood Boards
The best place to start is Pinterest. Save images of people, places and things you find inspiring that align with your values and your business. Who are the top 10 people that inspire you? Start pinning their images to your board and try to see the common thread or a theme that you like. Is it the quotes they say, or outfits they wear or they way the run their business. Finding and saving your favorite places can help you choose your shooting location. Is it indoors in an office like setting? Working from home is your favorite vibe? Or perhaps outdoor images that are the most appealing to you. You don’t have to go overboard or stress about it. This exercise should be fun and exciting, you are building the business you love and your mood board should reflect that. It will also help you narrow down your vision and figure out what you want and don’t want your branding to look like.
2. Schedule a personal branding photo shoot
Investing in a personal branding photographer should be one of your goals. If you cannot afford one yet you can do a DIY photoshoot with your cellphone using strategies I will list here. But as you grow try to find an experienced photographer who will not only take good photos but will help you create stylized images that will represent your brand. Once you find the photographer whose portfolio you love and had a great conversation next step would be to share your mood board with the photographer. I cannot stress enough how important it is for your photoshoot. I worked with so many people who came to me after a disappointing photoshoot and didn’t know where it went wrong, it’s just either didn’t “feel like them” or “look like them”. Creating a mood board will show your branding photographer what your expectations are. Is the look you are going for is clean and minimalistic or more dark and edgy or perhaps very colorful. This will help you choose your outfits, settings and props for the shoot. Here are a few examples of and ideas for props. For example, are you starting a podcast? Then you should bring your mike with you to use as a prop from promoting your podcast. Are you creating a product and want to show the behind the scenes look, we can create a fun lab-like set. Are you a nutritionist, health coach or a fitness instructor? See below images from a few previous photoshoot where we created an atmosphere to reflect my clients personality. See see more images here
3. Find your Why
You also need share your story of why you started your business. Why do you feel passionate about it? Did you struggle with something and found a solution and now this solution became your business? What truly motivates you? Imagine you already made the money you dream of, what would you do with it? What difference do you want to make in this world? Most entrepreneurs start their businesses not only to make money but to also make a difference in other people’s lives. Sharing your story and the struggles you overcame in life will help you connect with people on the emotional level. For instance, my passion is helping women feel better about themselves, which in turn gives them more confidence to be the face of their brand and run their businesses. I help them by showing that anyone can look great in photos, you don’t need to “lose 5 more pounds” or “get more fillers or botox” to look your best. Good lighting, proper fitting clothing, right posing and most importantly confidence will make your portraits beautiful and powerful.
Keeping these three strategies in mind as you market your business will help you create an unforgettable branding presence because, after all, there is only one you in the world and no matter how many experts there are in your filed no one has your unique prospective.
