A few years ago personal branding was more of a curiosity for
individuals. Now we cant read a magazine without hearing about
personal branding. I think in some ways branding yourself was
considered vain. The "corporate man culture" had not died out. I
think those days are gone. Just as women rely on having a black dress
in the closet - professionals need to have some sort of personal
branding going on - or they will seem out of it. Well I have to admit
that many unemployed people I meet dont have any idea what Im talking
about. Where once a well articulated resume was enough to land a job -
now you must differentiate yourself and constantly deliver value.
Right now if you are looking for a job and you dont have your "black
dress" - no one is going to invite you to the ball.
Personal branding is now something everyone must have in their
career "wardrobe" - it has become the staple for professional success.
I for one am relieved that the expectations are so high. We can no
longer just be cogs in the machinery where somebody else takes care of
us. It was nice - now I feel like an adult and in full control of my
life - and its not vanity but invention - its re-establishing my
identity in an all too over-populated world where I am responsible for
my own promotion. But I also feel comfortable and confident - knowing
I can always pull out my black dress (slacks) to wear to the party.
