Protect Your Brand(s)

Who would have thought we need to worry about our personal brand? Most people don't realize they even have a brand, but we all do. Everything we say or do, or tweet or text represents our brand. It is our reputation and how others remember us. In this digital world, it is always with you (and it doesn't go away), so we all need to be conscious of how we are branding ourselves.

Companies also need to be aware of how their employer brand is reflected. From selling a product or service to attracting or repelling the targeted candidates, the employer brand has a huge impact on a business' success. Bad press or a bad experience on a company website may lose a customer or top talent for good. I know when I visit a website and have a great experience I am more apt to re-visit the site and tell my friends about it. When I visit a site as a job seeker and the process to apply for a job is clear, and the description reflects the company culture, I am attracted to the company and am more inclined to apply and be excited about the opportunity. If I have difficulties getting through the process or find it cumbersome or unclear, I question whether this is a company for me.

Blogging is a fantastic way to promote both your personal and employer brand. Personally, a blog reflects what you are thinking and is a way to get your message, ideas, and personality out there. In a job search is an effective way to promote your skill set and expertise. A great marketing tool! By reading company blogs I get an immediate feel for the culture and gain more respect for the company. We get insights on how they operate, what they are thinking and what it is like to work there. Also an effective marketing and recruiting tool! A company that blogs is putting their brand out there and isn't afraid to reflect who they are and gain followers who can easily find them through search engines. A necessity for any company that wants to compete.

With social media taking off, personal and employer branding are key components to future success. We all need to be aware of how our brands are represented and make sure we are managing and protecting them. Take the time to think about your brands, those who do and make it a priority will have an advantage in this digital world.