SUCCEED WITH STYLE: What have you done for your brand lately?

SUCCEED WITH STYLE: What have you done for your brand lately?

After conducting a presentation on and image and brand recently, I asked myself, “What have I done for my brand lately?” I did a quick assessment.

Thankfully, I’m in good shape. But I also realize I need to further focus my value so that my clients receive a consistent experience that reflects my brand. Keep in mind that your brand should be constantly evolving. It should reflect new skills, experiences and value. And above all, it needs to be authentic.

You don’t want to create an image and brand that seems contrived and disingenuous. A strong brand communicates clearly its value and then delivers on it consistently. Think Volvo and safety or Toyota and reliability. And if you are looking for a new job, then your goal is to communicate your value in addition to highlighting what distinguishes from your peers.

Ask yourself these questions to see where you stand with your brand:

1. How would your boss describe you to her/his boss?

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2. What do you want to be known for in your company or industry? What is your legacy?

3. What are the first 3 words you want someone to say about you when they meet you for the first time?

4. Can you describe your role in your company and the value you deliver in 30 seconds? Could you do it during an elevator ride with a senior level executive?

5. Does your appearance communicate credibility and success? Does it reflect your role in the organization? (Even if the environment is very casual).

6. Do you know how your boss, his boss and senior management view you and your performance?

7. How do you communicate your successes within your organization?

8. Do you have a strong network both inside and outside of your company that can help you move your career forward?

9. Are you polished and poised when it comes to business and dining etiquette?

10. Would your peers say that your performance and daily communications are consistent?

I’d love to know how you stack up. Do you have more work to do? Please contact me at elevestyle@gmail.com and fill me in on your progress.

Margaret Batting is the president and owner of Elevé Image Communications in Rhode Island. She travels the country as the national corporate image consultant for CareerBuilder. Margaret shows business professionals and entrepreneurs how to align their image with their career. Margaret serves on the Board of Directors for Dress for Success RI. Prior to launching Elevé, Margaret was an advertising and process improvement executive at Staples, Inc. She received her certifications from the Association of Image Consultants International, the London Image Institute and the Institute of Image Communications in NY. She holds a BA in Mass Communication from Boston University. Margaret is the Corporate Style Expert for GoLocalProv.com. Visit www.eleveimagecommunications.com for more information.