This is a great post for reinforcing the authenticity of ones personal brand. Too often, people start from the outside-in with their brands, asking “what kind of person do clients want” or “what does an expert look like” in their well-meaning attempt to meed the needs of their (potential) customers or clients. But indeed, what really makes a personal brand effective is starting from the inside-out, from a sense of who you are (and also, who you are becoming), and emphasizing clarity of purpose over desirability.

Despite the importance of being clear about who you are and what you have to offer, which people often grasp as they develop their personal brands, I think it is important to keep reminding folks that they shouldn’t let ‘personal branding stifle authentic voice’. This is something I’ve been writing about on AuthenticOrganizations.com, and I’m excited to add a link to this great reminder for starting with ‘who you are’.
cvh