Yep! Your reputation is editable

Last month, I spoke at the Twin Cities Young Professional Summit about Personal Branding.

If you're like me, the word "personal branding" might make you think of TikTok personalities and social media oversharers.

But here’s the truth – if you’re a student, an employee, a volunteer, or running a business of any size, your reputation is important! And (a big AND), you have control to edit it however you like. 

Note: Since the word branding carries significant historical weight, I will use the reputation moving forward.

Here’s what we all need to remember about building our reputation:

🚩 Your reputation is your professional identity. Written by you, not assigned to you.

🚩 It’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room.

🚩 What do you want to be known for? If you don’t decide, others will decide for you.

🚩 Showing your strengths builds trust and makes it easier for people to champion you.

🚩 People won’t “figure you out.” You have to tell them – and just as importantly, show them.

How? Sit in the driver's seat. 

Tell your manager if you want to be considered for a promotion, share your career aspirations with others, and demonstrate the skills you want to be known for. 

Your reputation is always in draft form. It evolves with you. You’re free to make adjustments as your life, aspirations, values and interests change.

Books and podcasts I found helpful on the subject: 

Reinventing You – Dorie Clark

Own Your Brand, Own Your Career – Amy Storch & Mike Kim

The Brand You Podcast – Mike Kim