No, your personal brand is NOT your image in your field.

That is a common misconception perpetuated by confused IMC grads who don’t understand the first three Ps of the Four Ps of marketing.

Your personal brand is your Unique Selling Differential.

What you do with your personal brand is a combination of branding and brand management – but unless you determine what your personal brand is (what your niche in your profession is), you can’t brand yourself.

Your brand is more than just your personal image. Your personal brand includes your specialized skill set and experience. Are you a thought leader? An author? An award winner? A public speaker?

Sound confusing?

Check out Steve’s GovLoop article with seven helpful tips for improving your brand (not just your image).