Villanova Women in Business SocietyBreaking Through The Glass Ceiling

November 17, 2010

Creating the Brand of YOUThe Key Elements of Personal

Branding

Presenter: Cindy Ratzlaff

Who or What is a Brand?

•Pepsi, Starbucks, Nordstrom’s and You

•You must building the brand of YOU even as you serve the needs of an employer

Four Elements of Branding

1. Visual2. Voice3. Value4. Variation

Visual

Present yourself for the job you want, not the job you have.Purposefully create the subliminal message that you are executive materialBe aware that even casual business functions are just that - business

Voice

Your voice is your core brand message and tone. Decide exactly how you want people to hear you.– Thoughtful and reasoned– Measured and thorough – Positive and eager– Passionate and detail oriented

Value

What is your value to a company?– Starting salary matters– Who you work for is as important as what

you do. Your boss is your gateway.– Evaluate your goals every year.

• Potential for upward motion• A supportive, influential boss• Work you truly enjoy

– Add to your skills

VariationWhat is your unique selling proposition?– Previous experience– Ability to work extra hours– Willingness to change locations– Passion for the work– Natural personality fit for the task– Contacts

Build a Personal Brand Deck

Create a presentation of Brand You– Spell out your visual identity– Create a personal mission statement

that defines your voice– Be clear about your value offerings– List your unique variations

Creating Brand You SEO

Build a LinkedIn Profile Adjust Facebook privacy settingsUntag yourself in friends photosCreate a business fan page

Start a Twitter Account in your own nameBegin a blog using WordPress or BloggerSet up a G-mail account in your own name

Cindy’s Personal Brand Business Principals

1. I work with women owned businesses and those who market to women

2. I do things that scare me regularly3. I take imperfect action rather than

wait for perfect action4. I am a cheerleader for my clients

My BrandWomen and those who market to

women

Connect with leaders in your desired industry.Twitter: @BrandYou

FB: Brand New Brand You