Self-branding has been a part of the marketing ecosphere for a long time now, but with the advent of the digital era, priorities have shifted and a digital presence is of utmost necessity nowadays. With more recruiters and employers turning to online platforms to vet candidates, digital branding has been more than just a buzzword in a conversation. This article will try to illustrate just how significantly you can boost your personal branding by immersing yourself in the digital way of operating.

Your personal brand should be an exclusive combination of your skills, experiences, and your traits that make you shine amongst the sea of candidates that are out there. How you present yourself and what impression you create at a moment's glance will be superbly important in the competitive job market. The benefits of branding yourself digitally is that people will be able to trust you and label you as a credible candidate. Remember, consistency is key and first impressions matter, so as long as you are honest, loyal and passionate about your work, you will be set apart from the competition. Here are some tips on how to get going setting up your digital footprint:

Define your brand

The first step in establishing your digital branding presence is to define who you are and what you are trying to achieve. Take some time beforehand to really think about what are the criteria that make you unique and valuable at the same time in your field. Make a list of your strengths, passions, values and even your weaknesses and how they contribute to a professional setting.

Optimise your profiles

Keep in mind that your personal branding must start somewhere so always make sure to keep your personal websites, such as your LinkedIn and any other profiles you have uploaded, are always up to date and reflect your personality, skills, and working values. It's also recommended to include a photo of yourself and a professional summary to effectively communicate with potential clients/employers.

Curate your content

Be crystal clear about your motives on your online profiles and what you share online. Always be updated with current affairs relating to your area of expertise and share articles and insights from other individuals that demonstrate your knowledge and passion. Engage with others as well to facilitate positive exchange and discussions.

Be authentic

Authenticity is the cornerstone to building a strong personal brand. Be genuine about who you are and what you are able to provide for a potential employer. Be genuine and transparent in your interactions and avoid shifting your margins for activities you might not agree with. Honesty and originality are what draws people to you and these will help you build genuine connections and trust.

Consistency is key

Being consistent is extremely crucial for establishing your brand to others. Always maintain a schedule for your work and be dependable and persistent with your output. This will cement your reputation as a loyal and true individual who can be trusted and will guarantee you an everlasting presence in the job market and will set you apart from the competition.