How to Create a Personal Brand That Gets You Hired
In today’s competitive job market, having the right skills is just the starting point. What truly sets you apart is something more personal and powerful—your unique professional brand. This blog shares key insights from ABR Employment Services’ recent webinar, “Craft a Personal Brand That Gets You Hired.” Whether you attended live or are just catching up, these notes and takeaways will help you build a compelling personal brand that opens doors and creates new opportunities.
Why Your Personal Brand Matters More Than Ever
It’s no longer enough to just meet the qualifications—many candidates bring similar experience to the table. What no one else has is you—your personality, perspective, and the way you deliver results.
Your personal brand is how you answer two essential questions:
- “Why should we hire you?”
- “What would past employers miss most about you?”
When done right, your brand creates a lasting impression. People may not remember every word you say—but they will remember how you made them feel. Your brand becomes your track record, showing both what you’ve achieved and how you show up professionally.
Understanding What a Personal Brand Really Is
Your brand is the intersection of two things:
- Perception – how others see you
- Professional identity – how you present yourself to the world
Together, they shape how you’re remembered and what opportunities come your way.
Your personal brand:
- Opens doors that may have stayed closed
- Enhances your credibility and builds trust
- Differentiates you from other qualified professionals
Start with Self-Assessment: Get Clear on Who You Are
Before you can share your brand confidently, you need to understand it yourself. That begins with honest reflection. Here are four key areas to explore:
Identify Your Core Strengths
What are you naturally good at? What skills or qualities do others consistently recognize in you?Define Your Values
What principles guide your work? What kind of environment helps you thrive?Clarify Your Aspirations
What impact do you want to make? Where do you see your career heading?Use a SWOT Framework
Take stock of your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to get a full picture of your path forward.
Reflect on these questions:
- What does your future look like?
- What do you need to get there?
- How do you want to be remembered?
Not sure where to start with your self-assessment?
Start Your Self-Assessment Now
Write Your Personal Branding Statement
This is your professional “pitch”—a one- to two-sentence statement that sums up:
- Who you are
- What you do best
- What makes you different
It should be honest, clear, and easy to adapt across platforms like your resume, LinkedIn profile, or even in interviews.
Make Your Brand Consistent Everywhere
Consistency builds trust. Wherever someone encounters you professionally—whether on a resume, LinkedIn, or email—they should see a clear and aligned version of who you are. Tips for consistency:
- Use a professional headshot across platforms.
- Match your tone and message in resumes, bios, and email signatures
- Ensure your values and strengths are clearly reflected everywhere you show up
Show Your Expertise, Don’t Just Say It
It’s one thing to claim expertise—it’s another to demonstrate it. Ways to share your knowledge and build visibility:
- Write or share insights about your industry
- Engage in professional groups and discussions
- Keep a portfolio or personal website updated with your best work
Credibility grows when others can see the value you bring, not just hear about it.
Use the Right Platforms to Your Advantage
- Write a strong headline—don’t just list your job title
- Tell your story in the Experience section
- Use the “Featured” section to highlight articles, awards, or standout work
- Especially useful for visual industries
- Share behind-the-scenes looks at your work or milestones
- Stay professional in tone while showing personality
- Follow industry leaders
- Share insights and use hashtags to join key conversations
- Post consistently to stay visible
Personal Website or Blog
- Include your resume, portfolio, and a clear way to contact you
- Update content regularly and use SEO so your expertise is easier to find
Your Brand Should Grow as You Do
Branding isn’t a one-time project—it’s a career-long process. As you learn, grow, and take on new challenges, your brand should evolve too. Stay intentional by:
- Seeking feedback
- Adjusting your messaging as your goals shift
- Staying authentic, even as your story grows
Your Brand, Your Advantage
Your personal brand isn’t just about standing out—it’s about being remembered for the right reasons. It’s your chance to show not just what you do, but how you do it—and why that matters.
Start building (or refining) your brand today and remember: ABR Employment Services is here to help you craft a career path that’s aligned with who you truly are.
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