The changing face of my Personal Brand

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, the concept of personal branding has become more important than ever. Gone are the days when a simple resume and a few references were enough to define one’s professional identity. In this era of social media dominance and digital footprints, our personal brand is constantly evolving and shaping our reputation both online and offline. As I reflect upon the changing face of my own personal brand, I can’t help but marvel at the power and influence it holds in various aspects of my life.

Some people might think that Personal Branding is a new concept, however your personal brand starts taking shape probably the minute you are born. Quiet or vociferous, obedient or wild, emotional or rational, these inherent behavioural traits and attributes start defining who you are and what you are perceived as. Looking back at the early years of my personal brand, I was often seen as a smart and obedient girl who excelled academically. While this perception held some truth, there were other aspects of my personality that went unnoticed, such as my deep curiosity, simplicity, and caring attitude. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I realized the importance of uncovering and embracing these hidden traits as part of my personal brand.

When you visit my Linkedin profile, you’ll see a series of labels that define my professional identity. From being an ICF PCC and CPCQ-certified coach to serving as a board member and mentor, these titles reflect my expertise and accomplishments. However, it’s important to note that my personal brand extends beyond these labels. The way I present myself on LinkedIn aligns with my true beliefs, passions, and purpose. I strive to maintain authenticity across all platforms and in-person interactions because attempting to adopt different personas in different contexts can lead to a loss of self-identity.

Reflecting on my professional journey, I recall my time as a marketing executive in Voltas Limited, a Tata Group company, followed by being a part of the leadership program of the group – the Tata Administrative Service (TAS). The values and ethos of the Tata Group became an integral part of my personal brand, and even after leaving the corporate world, I continue to feel a deep sense of pride and connection with the group’s achievements. Belonging to a particular work environment and aligning with its values can shape one’s personal brand significantly.

Upon transitioning to the role of a stay-at-home mother, my focus shifted to raising my children and embracing the joys and challenges that came with it. Building a personal brand was not at the forefront of my mind during that period. However, it was during this time that I inadvertently became an entrepreneur and launched my own brand. The authenticity and passion that accompanied my journey as a mother and entrepreneur laid a solid foundation for my personal brand. The best brands are built this way…when there is no deliberate effort to put into what you want to tell the world.

Yet, there are moments in life when deliberate effort is needed to shape and communicate our personal brand. For me, this realization came after the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As I emerged from the experience, shedding limiting beliefs and embracing my true self, I found my calling as a professional coach. Through my role as a Business Coach for Women Leaders, I combined my passion for motherhood, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and personal branding to support and empower women professionals. It wasn’t a linear path, and I had to navigate through my own inner journey while working as a teaching assistant during the pandemic. However, as things returned to normal, my vision became clearer, and I used my social media profiles and personal presence to reflect my true self and the value I could provide as a Business and Personal Branding coach.

Personal branding is an ever-evolving process, just as we evolve as individuals. As I grow older and wiser, my personal brand will undoubtedly continue to change and adapt. However, for now, it is essential for me to create a solid foothold in the minds of my community and clients, providing them with a clear understanding of who I am and how I can support them. Personal branding is not about creating a static image but rather embracing growth and transformation along the way.