by Cody Hodge

Created on: October 29, 2009

The best thing for anyone who is looking for a first job, or to move up in their career is to have a personal brand. This is something that everyone should have because when you really start to think about it, you are a brand. Workers are as much of a product as the bleach in aisle 11 that the company is trying to move more of. Just like you want to market that brand, and cultivate a culture of followers, you want to do that with your career.

The first thing you want to do is to have a message. Whether that message is a slogan, a saying, or just some belief that you want to make the core of the product of you, have something that stands out. Whenever you send out a resume, you want to have this message imprinted on it. You want to have this message loud and clear whenever you talk to a manager, a co-worker, or a customer. Whenever you have the chance to make an impression you need to have this message out in front.

Keep in mind that you don't have to literally have a message, or saying every time you speak or write something. That would look a little weird, and unless you are a car salesman, you need something more than just a sound byte. Just know what you are about, and go forth with that attitude.

Be in as many places at once as you can. Use Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIN, maybe even MySpace as well depending on what busines you are in. Have a signature line on your e-mail that links to those accounts, and even start your own website as well where people can see your personal side as well. Professionalism is always a key on even a personal website that others might see, but you can talk about some things that you enjoy as a person.

Managing your personal brand means having others who can help nurture that brand, or idea of yourself that you are trying to cultivate. Know the target market that you have, and get them to believe in you, and what you are trying to sell. Whether it be a company, new colleagues, or your friends, you should be using your resources well. The best way to spread your brand is to have others who can provide support.

Managing your brand isn't hard, you just have to know what you are doing, and put in some time. Basically you just have to know yourself, and your message. Network well, and be in as many places as you can. Stay visible, and professional at all times, and you will find that people will be lining up to see what you are all about.

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