how to write a personal brand statement for your resume

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How to Write a Personal Brand Statement for Your Resume

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If, as the wise adage goes, people don’t quit jobs, they quit bosses, then it should come as no surprise to learn that bosses don’t hire qualifications, they hire people.

When a company advertises for a position, they’re not simply looking for a set of skills. (Otherwise, they would’ve advertised for a robot). They’re looking for a human with a pleasant personality, a certain set of values, and the right attitude to add value to the company team.

And to find that right person, employers look to one specific place on a resume: your personal branding statement.

Personal branding is the packaging of your values, goals, and experience in a way that shows what unique solutions you can offer an employer.

Done right, your personal brand statement can make your resume stand out from the pile of sameness that floods your potential employer’s desk and put you first in line for that interview call everyone’s holding their breath for.

Why Most Resume Statements Don’t Work

How many times have you read the following phrases before, or something painfully close? 

• “energetic and ambitious individual" 
• “self-motivated and dedicated professional” 
• “works well under pressure” 
• “organized and detailed-oriented”

Many times, correct? You may even have a couple of these bland phrases decorating your own resume.

Now imagine how many times employers read these same commonplace phrases when sifting through hundreds of CVs looking for that special person for their company. And imagine also how un-special everyone sounds!  

The problem with these phrases is that they’re too general to be meaningful. In an attempt to describe themselves in a way that pleases everyone, most job candidates end up using generic phrases that appeal to no one because they communicate nothing fundamental about the person behind the resume. 

In order to craft a memorable and unique personal brand statement for your resume that shows employers why they should hire you (and not just your skills), you’ll have to dig deeper than superficial adjectives and communicate your true essence—briefly but convincingly.

3 Steps to Crafting a Memorable Resume Personal Statement

The trouble with crafting a unique and specific personal branding statement is that it can’t be formulaic. And so there’s no precise formula that everyone can follow.

Nevertheless, there are three basic elements that every successful personal resume statement should incorporate. These are the core consideration points for writing a unique and memorable statement about yourself:

1. Professional Values

Values play a big role in how we function in the world and in the decisions we make. None of us can work for very long in an environment that contradicts our core values.

If, for example honesty is one of your highest values, then you’d be miserable working for someone making money through deceit and manipulation.

What are your top professional values? What kind of conditions and environment allow you to perform your work at the best of your abilities and with the greatest happiness?

Do you value challenges in your work or a laid-back approach? Do you need creative freedom or do you perform best under guidelines? Do you value a strict timeline or are you better working with movable deadlines?

Write down a list of the values that you consider important, and then pick the one or two values that matter most to you. What value could you not work without?

There’s no right or wrong answer here. The important thing is to understand your true values so you can project them in your statement. If you do so successfully, you’ll appeal to employers who respect your values and can offer you a position where you feel fulfilled and appreciated.

2. Professional Goals and Aspirations

Finding a new job isn’t just about the present moment. Job seekers (not to mention employers) hope for a position that will last a few years. How would you like your career to progress in those few years (and beyond)?

Do you aspire to become the head of your department one day? Are you hoping to switch departments at some point in your career? Are you willing to be flexible with the tasks you perform or do you want to specialize on a very particular section of your industry?

Your professional aspirations directly speak to the value you can bring to an employer, and not just immediately, but also in the long run. A person who hopes “to manage the company’s creative department in the near future” appears much more valuable to a potential employer than a general “ambitious and energetic individual.”

Ambitious and energetic towards what end? Show potential employers how your specific professional goals and aspiration can benefit them in the future and they’ll be much more willing to give you a chance to get there.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What about in 10 years? What would you like to achieve professionally?

3. Past Experience In Relation to Your Goals and Values

Your resume will provide the details of your professional experience. What you want to do in your personal branding statement is showcase how specific past experiences reflect your core values and future goals.

Anyone can say that they’re creative, or organized, or ambitious, or systematic, or communicate well—but where’s the proof?

Think back on your professional career and pinpoint the moments that show how your creativity, timeliness, leadership skills, or your philanthropic nature added value to your past employers. What did you specifically accomplish in each situation that could have also benefited your future employer?

Resume Personal Brand Statement Examples

With your notes from the three steps above in front of you, you’re now ready to start putting together your personal brand statement. Although there’s no formula for a brand statements (because formulaic statements would defeat the purpose of personal branding), the important key to remember is that your resume personal statement should weave together all three of the elements we’ve uncovered in our exercise above.

To give you ideas on how you can structure a winning personal brand statement, let’s look at some personal brand statement examples and how they use each of the three elements:

Web Developer with extensive experience in wireframing and coding interactive websites and mobile apps for the startup world with a number of remote teams, who enjoys the fast-paced environment of the tech industry and being part of pioneering teams.

Values : Working remotely and being challenged. Goals : Work with innovative creative teams. Experience : Built websites and apps for startups working off site.

Having worked as a senior graphic designer for the last 7 years in ad agency organizing major campaigns and designing for multinational clients, I’m looking to offer my strong leadership skills to an innovating team working on cutting-edge design.  

Values : Design innovation and experimentation. Goals : Department/team leader. Experience : Agency world and campaign organization.

Having studied photography and video editing, I bring a unique understanding to my current work as a freelance animator for educational companies. As a strong communicator, I enjoy working on projects with deeper messages and strong morals.

Values : Communication and moral education. Goals : Switch departments from video editing to animation. Experience : Freelance projects and educational material. 

What’s Your Personal Brand Statement?

It’s your turn now to construct a succinct and powerful personal brand statement that will make you stand out from the competition and capture the attention of potential employers.

Consider these resume personal statement examples to work on putting together your own. Ask yourself how you'll weave your values, goals, and experience into a succinct and powerful personal brand statement for your resume? Give it a go in the comment section below!

We have a number of  professional resume templates  available for purchase on GraphicRiver—with advanced branding features and pro designs.

Editorial Note: This content was originally published on January 5, 2016. We're sharing it again because our editors have determined that this information is still accurate and relevant.

Top 10 Personal Brand Statement Examples To Follow

Updated: July 23, 2024

Published: June 18, 2023

In a 2022 personal branding trends study, most respondents said they consider personal branding an essential component of work and their everyday life. 

It found that 75% of Americans trust someone with a personal brand, and 63% are likely to buy from someone with a personal brand. 

What is a personal brand statement?

A personal brand statement is a couple of sentences that highlights your unique skills and experience. It’s meant to be a quick introduction to people who discover you online because it summarizes what you can offer them.

Basically, it’s a catchphrase, tag line, or elevator pitch for you as a professional individual. While it showcases what you do professionally, you can also display your personality.

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Why leaders should have a personal brand statement

You make a better first impression.

As the saying goes, “You only have one shot to make a first impression.” The challenge for entrepreneurs is that you don’t always know when that opportunity arises, as many first impressions happen online.

When a potential client or investor hears about you, their first instinct is to look up your social media profiles. If you’ve got a clear and well-thought-out personal brand statement, you’ve got a better chance at making them stick around for second and third impressions.

You can establish yourself as a thought leader

Thought leadership is a powerful content marketing tactic that can help you reach bigger audiences and generate leads for your business. When you’re known as a leader in your particular industry, that automatically gives you a higher level of credibility. 

A personal brand statement can strengthen your thought leadership strategy by clearly stating your area of expertise.

You can create networking opportunities

Whether you’re looking for top talent, new clients, or potential investors, networking is half the battle. 

Personal brand statements make it easy for potential connections to understand exactly what you do and what you value. Without it, you may miss out on opportunities simply because they didn’t know that you had something relevant to offer them.

Best personal brand statement examples for leaders

“bilingual creative who lives at the intersection of business & design.” —chris do.

Source: Chris Do’s LinkedIn page .

Chris Do is a multi-hyphenate: a designer, creative strategist, public speaker, founder, and CEO of The Futur, an online education platform.

What makes it great : Because he wears so many hats, Do’s personal branding statement is better than trying to explain everything he does.

“Helping people find their zen in the digital age.” —Shama Hyder

Source: Shama Hyder’s homepage .

Shama Hyder is the founder and CEO of Zen Media, a marketing and PR firm. She’s also written a book about digital marketing .

What makes it great : Hyder’s brand statement is an attention-grabbing play on her company’s name and showcases one of her key values: making clients feel a sense of calm in a fast-paced digital world.

“Write better sales emails faster with our in-inbox coach.” —Will Allred

Source: Will Allred’s LinkedIn page .

Will Allred is the co-founder of Lavender, an AI-powered email software startup.

What makes it great : Brooklin Nash, CEO of Beam Content, shares, “In one sentence, Allred captures the entire focus of his social presence: to help salespeople write better emails faster while demonstrating his authority and sharing his product in the second part of that headline.”

“Keeping it awkward, brave, and kind.” —Brené Brown

Source: Dr. Brené Brown’s homepage .

Brené Brown has a Ph.D. in sociology and is the author of several books that cover topics like shame, vulnerability, empathy, and courage.

What makes it great : Dr. Brown’s personal brand statement embodies her mission statement of encouraging people to embrace their vulnerabilities by sharing her own.

“Empowering ridiculously good marketing.” —Ann Handley

Source: Ann Handley’s homepage .

Ann Handley is a digital marketing expert and bestselling author. Her company helps marketers get tangible results.

What makes it great : Sharon Jonah, creative director and founder of digital marketing agency Buzz Social, shares, “In four words, we understand what Handley does, how she does it, whom she’s speaking to, and how she speaks.”

“Still just a girl who wants to learn. Youngest-ever Nobel laureate, co-founder @malalafund and president of Extracurricular Productions.” —Malala Yousafzai

Source: Malala Yousafzai’s Twitter profile .

Malala Yousafzai is the youngest Nobel laureate and an activist whose fund aims to remove the barriers to female education around the world.

What makes it great : Her bio highlights her impressive achievements with language that makes her sound relatable. 

“Marketing. Strategy. Humanity.” —Mark Schaefer

Source: Mark Schaefer’s homepage .

Mark Schaefer is an educator, speaker, marketing consultant, and author. He’s developed corporate marketing strategies for brands like Microsoft, IBM, and AT&T.

What makes it great : “It’s subtle, concise, and creative. It describes what Schaefer does, what he focuses on, and his unique and distinguished approach,” says Omer Usanmaz, CEO and co-founder of mentoring and learning software Qooper. 

“Empowering successful women to take control of their finances.” —Jennifer Welsh

Source: Jennifer Welsh’s LinkedIn profile page .

Jennifer Welsh founded Money School, a digital course that teaches women about personal finance. What makes it great : Welsh’s strong personal brand statement says exactly what she does and whom she does it for. 

“Let’s make Excel the solution, not the problem.” —Kat Norton (Miss Excel)

Source: Miss Excel’s homepage .

Kat Norton (known as Miss Excel) became famous on TikTok for her bite-sized Microsoft Excel tutorials. She now offers Excel courses on her website.

What makes it great : Norton’s clever statement shows that she understands her audience's problem and highlights her personality.

“‘The Customer Whisperer.’ I help marketers discover the hidden reasons why customers buy so they can become un-ignorable.” —Katelyn Bourgoin

Source: Katelyn Bourgoin’s LinkedIn page .

Katelyn Bourgoin is a creator and serial entrepreneur who founded a branding agency, a mentoring platform for female entrepreneurs, and a restaurant consulting firm. She trains entrepreneurs to uncover what makes their products “un-ignorable.”

What makes it great : Bourgoin’s clever branding statement effectively tells marketers that she can help them understand their customers better and make their brands memorable.

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How to write a personal brand statement

Writing an effective personal brand statement can be tough because it requires you to be catchy yet compelling. It should give audiences all the necessary information in a sentence or two.

Here are some tips for writing your own:

Think about your unique value proposition

A unique value proposition (or unique selling point) is what makes you different. It tells people why they should try your product or service, network with you, or invest in your business.

Tip : Identify your core values, goals, and strengths.

If you don't know what those are, ask yourself:

• Why am I building my brand?
• What do I want my audience to know me for?
• How do I do things differently?
• Do I have a distinct skill set, experience, point of view, or passion?
• What value do I bring to my audience?

Keep it short and sweet

Your brand statement should be simple and easy to understand. 

The goal is to have someone look at your profile or website and immediately understand who you are and what you do, so keep it brief. Keep in mind that you don’t need full sentences either. 

Start by writing one to three sentences that outline what you do, for whom, and how you do it. You can also add a sentence about values. 

Then, look at different ways you can shorten them. Or pick out the most specific and impactful words and see what happens when you simply list them. 

Showcase your personality

Injecting your personality empowers you to share what you do without being bland or boring. Being authentic also helps attract like-minded customers, investors, and peers. 

At the end of the day, there are other people out there who may offer similar services or solve the same problems for your target audience. Your personality can set you apart.

“Don't be afraid to inject a bit of humor, quirkiness, and passion. It’ll help make you more memorable and help you stand out from the crowd,” says Usanmaz.

Ideally, you want customers to know what you do and get a little taste of what it will be like to work with you.

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How to Write a Resume Personal Statement

What is a resume personal statement?

A resume personal statement expresses who you are, where you’ve been, and sometimes where you plan to go next right at the top of your resume.

Everyone has different circumstances, so the personal statement helps to orient a potential future boss in terms of what they are about to read in the resume. Think about what you would like to share that matters to you. This space is particularly useful if you are changing industries , coming back in to the employment market or looking for a promotion. Your shop window starts here. The personal statement may be the only thing than an employer reads.

The resume personal statement hooks in a reader, influencing them to read more. So, how do you write a resume personal statement that is both natural and grabs an employer’s attention? Offer them a brief insight into who you are and why you would be a fantastic hire. So what do you write in a personal statement for a job?

This guide will cover:

• The basic formatting of a personal statement: How to tailor your personal statement to give you a competitive advantage
• Personal statement examples you should (and shouldn’t) use
• Practical steps for getting started on your resume personal statement

The personal statement format

The personal statement is a short paragraph that sits right below your contact information at the top of a resume . It sums up your experience, goals and skills with confidence. Think of your resume’s personal statement like an extended tagline for your career. A resume personal statement should include:

• Between 50 and 200 words in 3 - 4 sentences
• Your title or function, for example “Junior developer” or “Passionate hospitality manager”
• An opening hook
• Soft skills and hard skills
• Impressive facts and stats
• Your short and/or long-term goals
• Job-specific slant for the position you’re applying to

This may seem like a lot to cram into 200 words but perfecting your elevator pitch shows that you have a firm grasp of why your experience, goals, and skills make you the perfect fit for the job. Go all out to make this as fitting for each role as possible. Too often candidates come up with what they see as the perfect introduction to them and forget about how a hiring manager for each specific role might read it. Be flexible with the personal statement. It might not present the very best version of you - it should present the best version of you for this particular role.

This brief introduction is only a short piece of text, it is not disruptive and in many cases even serves as a welcome addition to what is otherwise a dry and impersonal document. It should be clear to you by now how we feel about the personal statement: Include it, especially because it allows you that bit of creativity that may make all the difference. Adopt a conversational tone and consider using the first person for these few lines. Third person (past tense) is standard for resumes, but if you want to go personal, this is where to do it.

How do I start my personal statement? How do you not start a personal statement? Even with a personal statement of 3-4 lines, sometimes the first sentence is the hardest. Even the first few words can have a disproportionate effect on how your personal statement is viewed. Your starting "hook" should make your fit with the role clear and specific. Use an example that is as unique to you as possible - you have to make your future employer sit up and pay attention. The first word of your personal statement should never be "I" - a great resume explores the potential of a common partnership and should not be a uni-directional monologue.

Align your resume’s personal statement with the job description

The hiring manager delicately chose every word in their job description. Gather clues from its tone, which skills they highlight, and any hints that point toward their dream employee. One of the top resume tips from HR managers is to include relevant keywords specific to the job posting itself as well as the actual wording of the job title .

What would this job description look like in 3 - 4 sentences? What keywords, skills, and tone would the job description have?

While still sticking to the facts about who you are and your experiences, your resume personal statement should highlight as many similarities with the job description as possible. When the hiring manager reads the first few sentences in your resume, they feel like you are exactly the person they were describing when they wrote the job description.

Position of the personal statement

Recruiters still prefer to see a candidate's personal details at the top (or running along a column on either side) of the resumes that cross their desk. This allows them to quickly search through the resumes that Applicant Tracking Systems have sorted into their virtual “yes” pile. You do not want your (relatively modern) personal statement to get in the way of this tradition. 

The best place to put your statement is after your personal details (if they are at the top) and before your employment history section. Remember that the length of your resume is important. If you have already been very selective and cannot possibly leave out any more information and if adding your personal statement means your resume spills over onto a third page, you may consider not including your statement for the position in question. This ensures you comply with the unwritten rule that a resume should not be longer than two pages.

What is a good personal statement length? 200 words is the maximum suggested length, but if you go with one powerful sentence that you want the hiring manager to remember for the rest of the interview process, then why not? Less is more, but you have to be confident in your application to go with this option.

Plan to write your resume personal statement last

Instead of getting stuck at the beginning trying to write the perfect statement, skip this section and jump right into your employment history first. Once you’ve added your relevant work experiences , take a look at your keywords, phrases and skills from your past positions.

Your complete work history and the job description for the job you want are the foundations for your personal statement. By writing your resume personal statement last, it should be easier to get started once you have the right inspiration.

It might be the case that you leave a certain number of lines for the personal statement on your resume and write an individual statement for each role. You will often have a public version of your resume that is accessible on job boards (etc), so there should still be an "ideal" personal statement version.

How do I write a resume from scratch? While it is good advice to write the resume personal statement after your have written the resume itself (giving your brain a chance to ponder your true highlights), starting writing a resume is a mammoth task in itself. There are many useful pieces of advice when sitting down to write a resume, but for me, the key is to think about the reflecting the combination of what you are good at, what you enjoy and how those things will contribute to the direction of your career. For sure, be honest about your experience, but there has to be a creative flavour of ensuring that your past adequately reflects where you want to go.

Check out resume personal statement examples

Before you dive into writing, get a sense for different rhythms and layouts by checking these resume personal statement examples. How do you write a good personal statement?

Let's start with the basics. Since every person is unique, all personal statements should be unique too. You should, therefore, resist the urge to (largely) copy someone else's existing statement. This is the only spot on your resume to let your voice be heard, so try to write something that would prompt a friend to exclaim, “That sounds like something you’d say!” while, of course, keeping it professional.

Example. Innovative Executive Assistant with 10+ years of experience with global financial firm assisting a team of three C-Level directors. Expertly coordinate travel, manage large-scale expense reports, and streamline communication and calendars across departments..Seeking an Executive Assistant role with the Resume.io team to expand my office management career and thrive in an environment that requires independent problem-solving skills and focus under short deadlines.

The example above does the following things:

• States their title in the first sentence
• Includes specifics such as team size and duties
• Succinctly sums up major responsibilities and skills
• Highlights hard skills —experience arranging travel and expense reports—as well as soft skills —grace under pressure, attention to detail and communication.
• Specifically tailors the final statement with the company and/or job description

Here are a few more resume personal statement examples:

Experienced Digital Marketing Manager with five years of expertise in heading up a global firm. Increased inbound leads by 500% and raised online sales from 100,000 annually to over 2 million in a three-year period. Looking to grow career by applying skills to the Resume.io marketing team.

Straight to the point and accomplishment focused, without the use of “I”. Now let’s look at a less effective example:

I have worked as a Digital Marketing Manager for five years. During this time I have been an important and hard-working member of the team and showed my ability to work under pressure to deliver on company targets. I am looking to bring my skills to a new role in digital marketing.

Generic and ignores accomplishments. Also, too many uses of “I” in a passive voice.

Next is an example of a personal statement that focuses more on career objectives . A career objective can be used as a way to get across your skills and experience, without the personal bit. It’s a good option if you’re an entry-level candidate or college graduate without a lot of experience in the industry you’re applying for. The idea is, because you don’t have the relevant experience to talk about, you pull skills and experience from other areas of your resume so you can show you have what it takes.

Keep your career objective brief — 2-3 sentences max — following the same rules as the personal statement.

Content writer with three years' experience in a large e-commerce company. Delivered content that grew brand social presence to over 700,000 across three channels and improved email open rates by 48%. Looking to further career by joining the Resume.io as an SEO Executive.

See how it uses transferable skills? Combining these with numbers makes them all the more impressive.

And a less effective resume personal statement example:

I am a content writer looking to secure a role as an SEO Executive. While I have no experience in this field and am a dedicated individual and a keen learner. My enjoyment of how search engines work will help me excel in your company.

There’s not enough here to capture attention and it doesn’t sell transferable skills. Whichever type of opening statement you go for, if you have numbers to show, make them count.

Writing your personal profile resume

Always write the first draft of a personal profile resume without editing. Don’t worry about length or word choice in the first pass. Brag about yourself, be proud of your accomplishments , and add in all of your most impressive stats.

Some of the best writing happens without editing too soon, so don’t worry about sounding over the top or egotistical, that’s what editing your personal profile resume is for. If the goal is to get 3 - 4 perfect sentences, it’s likely your first draft will be closer to 6 - 8, maybe even longer. Then consider which parts are closest to helping you get the job and cull the rest. It might seem brutal, but brevity is critical at the top of your personal profile.

Polish your personal statement and experiment

Once you’ve narrowed your focus, use the following questions to help you review your work and edit your statement:

Is my first sentence clear and concise? The opening line should state your position and use strong, enthusiastic language to hook in the reader. It often includes years of experience as well.

Is it direct opposed to passive? A strong sense of self comes through in a personal statement. Instead of sentences that begin with “I believe I am…” or “I enjoy…” be bold. Get right to the point and take ownership of your skills .

Does it include objective information? For this one, try to get inside the hiring manager’s mind. If you were filling this role, what boxes would you need to check off? The second and third sentence often include specific skills, facts or figures to support this need.

Does it read naturally? Even with all these specifics, the statement should still be easy to understand and have a natural rhythm when read aloud. Cut out any jargon that acts as filler or that changes your tone. Formality may vary from company to company, but personal statements should always reflect the type of employee or person you are.

What are three tips for writing a personal statement?

• Make sure that your personality comes across in the writing.
• Quantify any accomplishments and include financials where possible.
• If you are at a moment of career change, don't fail to mention your goals.

Common mistakes in personal statements

When writing your personal statement, beware of platitudes. These are clichéd expressions that have become meaningless from overuse. They induce recruiters to roll their eyes and move on to the next candidate. Think of such terms as “an administrative jack-of-all-trades” or “a cog in the wheel’ and being ready for a “new challenge.”  Definitely avoid this list of human resources’ most hated resume phrases. 

Try to be original in your choice of words and ask a friend or family member to take a critical look at your personal statement when you are done. By the way, you should always have someone proofread your entire resume when you think you are ready to send it.

Some people call their personal statements " resume objectives ." This is something else entirely. A resume objective is required when a candidate needs to project their hopes for their next role that differe from their previous experience a little. This objective can then be used to outline the motivations behind a career change and is also common with early-career professionals. 

Does a personal statement need a title? Some resume templates might call the opening statement a summary and others may exclude a description entirely. Either option is fine as employers are conditioned to expect a few lines at the to of a resume to serve as a headline for your job application.

What do employers expect from your resume opening statement?

Sometimes it is useful to consider job seeking activity from the point of view of the end hiring managers. External recruiters are important people to impress, but it is the employers that will be making the ultimate hiring decision. They will be reading lots of resumes, so what would they want to read in your resume opening statement?

• They will want the resume opening statement to be written for them. When you are on the hunt for a new member of your professional family, an intensely personal connection is vital from the first lines.
• They will expect a quantifiable context to your resume opening statement. Impressive words come easily when you really need a job, but backing them up with numbers to demonstrate their scale is less simple.
• They will expect to be impressed. If you cannot impress a specific employer for a specific role with the first lines of your resume, then the role is almost certainly not for you. Nothing to shout about? Move on.

Key takeaways

Think of your CV personal statement as the first 2 minutes of an interview—whether on the phone or in person. The HR manager asks you to “tell me a little about yourself,” and you have a quick minute to set the tone for the rest of the conversation. Similarly, the CV personal statement should include:

• A natural, yet professional CV tone that reflects your personality
• The top reasons your experience makes you a unique fit for this position
• Why this role aligns with your career plans
• Facts and data on your CV that back up your earlier points

Crafting a personal statement for each role will cause some serious thought. What is your essential fit for the role that will make a hiring manager sit up and think "wow, I need to have them on my team?" What would you want to read if you were in their shoes. You will definitely have lots to say, but keep it simple and powerful.

One more good CV statement example:

Expert SEO copywriter with a decade of B2C and B2B experience across three industries. Versatile in writing social, website and long-form copy to convey each brand’s unique tone and message. I cultivated 15 new clients in two years and grew readership by over 200%. I am now seeking to expand my editing and content creation expertise in a Marketing Manager position.

Once you’ve mastered writing your CV personal statement, this clear sense of who you are and what you want will prepare you to pitch yourself during interviews.

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How to Write a Resume Branding Statement: Recruiter-Backed Insights

A recruiter weighs in on what a branding statement is, when it’s essential, and when to leave it out.

a year ago   •   5 min read

Your skills, education, experience, and unique personality make you an asset in your field — but how do you make that clear to potential employers?

Quick answer: With your resume branding statement. Your resume branding statement summarizes everything that makes you the right candidate for the role.

A well-written personal branding statement grips recruiters’ attention and makes you stand out from the pile of other candidates with similar experience.

In this article, we’ll explore what a resume branding statement is, how to write one, and when and when not to include it. We’ll also provide important resume branding tips to keep in mind, examples, and a template to help you write your own resume branding statement!

What is a resume branding statement?

Think of your resume branding statement as your personal sales pitch. Candidates often put it at the top of their resumes — under their contact information, above their experience section.

Your resume branding statement is the first impression employers will get from you and, in this competitive job market, a memorable first impression is crucial.

For example:

Dependable and resourceful office administrator with typing speed of 65 wpm, and 8 years of experience improving sales and customer satisfaction. Seeking to expand career and join a new team in pharmaceutical sales.

What to include in your resume branding statement

Summarizing all your skills, experience, and strengths into a few lines may seem like a daunting task. To simplify things, here’s what you need to include in your resume branding statement:

• Your professional title : Include your title, which should be the same as the position you are applying for, helping recruiters picture you in the role they are trying to fill.
• Skills : Obviously, you aren’t going to fit them all here; just choose 2 or 3 of your skills that are most relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Strengths : Use strengths as you would use adjectives when describing yourself in your branding statement.
• Rewards : If you were given any rewards within the field you are applying for, incorporate them into your resume branding statement.
• Accomplishments : Use your resume branding statement to highlight any significant accomplishments that make you stand out.
• Amount of experience : If you’re an experienced professional in the field you are applying for, make that clear in your resume branding statement.
• Career goals : Will the role help with your career goals? If so, put that into your resume branding statement to let recruiters know your commitment to the field.

Tips for writing an eye-catching resume branding statement

• Make it succinct: Your resume branding statement should be no more than 50 words.
• Put it at the top of your resume: Your resume branding statement should go right below your contact information and before your work experience.
• Match your branding statement to the company’s mission: Browse the company’s website to find the skills and values the company you’re interested in wants to find in their candidates.
• Use the right keywords : Pay attention to the language used in the job description to describe the ideal candidate, and use some of those keywords in your resume branding statement. Our Targeted Resume tool will analyze the job description and identify important keywords and skills in no time. Try it out!
• Ask yourself what image you want to project: Think of your unique personal attributes, skills, achievements, values, and career goals that set you apart from other candidates.
• Avoid repetition: Do not list accomplishments, traits, and skills you’ve already included in other parts of the resume in your branding statement.
• Use quantifiers: Provide proof of your success with quantifiable results .
• Avoid buzzwords : Keep it real. Don't sound like you’re ‘too good to be true.’
• Your branding statement may not need a title: A branding statement is pretty self-explanatory so no title is necessary. That being said, you could use the title of Branding Statement at the beginning if you wish.
• Proofread:  Make sure that your resume branding statement is well-written, grammatically correct, free of mistakes, and conveying exactly what you want it to.
• Check your resume: Use our free resume scanner, Score My Resume , which assesses your resume against certain criteria and provides tips to improve it.

Driven marketer with excellent written and verbal communication skills, and 22 years of experience improving consumer reach by 60%. Seeking to become an industry leader within ResumeWorded’s management team.

When to include a branding statement in your resume

It’s important to note that resume branding statements aren’t a must. Here’s when a resume statement should definitely be a part of a resume:

If you’re changing careers

If you’re applying for a job in a new field , a branding statement can be a quick way to kick off your resume by telling recruiters why you are great for the role, even if it is different from your previous work.

Creative and organized consultant seeking to help companies with their waste management in order to maximize their profits.

Senior-level hires

If you’re already a seasoned professional within the field you’re applying for, use a branding statement to make that clear at the beginning of your resume.

Justice-oriented family lawyer with strong problem-solving skills ready to put my 25 years of legal expertise to work as a partner of your firm.

You’re applying for a job that requires a specific skillset

Sometimes job descriptions mention specific skills and achievements as part of the requirements. Use your resume branding statement to make it clear that you are the right candidate for the role.

Sales-oriented and outgoing realtor with 6 years of experience and a proven track-record helping people find homes in their desired neighborhoods. Hoping to grow my career with a new team of realtors and brokers.

Extensive experience

If you have 20 years of experience or over in the field you are applying for, you would make an asset to the company.

Compassionate and knowledgeable mental health nurse with 30 years of experience with case management helping clients achieve their best outcomes. Seeking a role in the criminal justice system to help former inmates reintegrate into their communities.

When NOT to include a resume branding statement

Your brand is already in-line with the job you are applying for.

If your work experience and educational background are both in line with the job you’re applying for, it’s already implied that you have what recruiters are looking for. In this case, a resume branding statement may seem redundant.

You’re a student or recent graduate

If you’re in school or recently finished your education, you likely don’t have a lot of work experience and a resume branding statement may not help your case. Highlight relevant coursework and/or internships instead. Check out our post The Proper Way to Include an Internship on a Resume .

Resume branding statement template

To help you get started, we’ve created a template that you can easily copy, paste and insert into your own resume.

[Strength] and [strength] [professional title], with [number] years of experience in [skill/accomplishment]. Seeking to accomplish [career goals].

Resume branding statement examples

Mid-level job seeker resume branding statement:.

Research analyst with methodological approach to projects and 5 years of research writing experience. Hoping to improve research skills with new projects at Resume Branded University.

Senior-level job seeker resume branding statement:

Patient and knowledgeable physics teacher with 23 years of experience helping high school students connect with science in new ways. Looking to teach higher-level students at Somewhere University.

Experienced/Senior-Level job seeker resume branding statement:

Financial Analyst with 27 years of experience applying organizational and leadership skills to support the needs of the firm’s clients and staff. Seeking to take career to the next level with a managerial role at Anywhere Bank.

Key takeaways for crafting your branding statement for your resume

• Emphasize your skills, achievements, and career goals in a way that sets you apart from other applicants.
• Avoid buzzwords and cliches in your resume branding statement.
• Focus on specific and measurable accomplishments and use active language and examples that show how you’ve used your abilities.
• Tie your unique personality traits into your resume branding statement.
• Incorporate the skills and keywords that are in the job description and on the company’s website to align with the job you’re applying for.
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Crafting Your Personal Branding Statement: A Path to Professional Success

Stuart Crawford

Establishing a strong personal brand has become a crucial element for career success. Your personal brand is your reputation – what you're known for and the unique value you provide. The personal branding statement is at the core of your personal brand – a short, powerful phrase that encapsulates your skills, values, and professional ambitions. An effective personal branding statement can serve as your compass, guiding your career trajectory and helping you stand out.

With fiercer competition, a mediocre personal brand won't cut it anymore. You must strategically sculpt your brand and declare your promise to the world. This comprehensive guide will illuminate what a stellar personal branding statement entails and provide you with a robust framework for crafting your own. We'll explore some outstanding examples from which you can draw inspiration and break down the essential ingredients that go into making a memorable statement.

You'll also gain insight into aligning your statement with your larger personal branding strategy and leveraging it across your professional materials – from your resume to your social media profiles. Whether starting from scratch or looking to revamp your existing statement, this guide will equip you with the tools to develop a personal brand that truly captures your essence. With a compelling statement, you'll be well-positioned to achieve your wildest career dreams. The time is now to define your professional identity and value proposition . Let's get started!

The Significance of Personal Branding

Defining Personal Branding

Developing a solid personal brand has become essential to stand out. Personal branding is the strategic practice of defining and projecting your professional identity to others. Just as large companies invest in branding to craft their image and connect with customers, professionals must manage their branding to get noticed and advance their careers.

Effective personal branding involves crystallising and communicating what makes you unique, valuable, and memorable. This includes spotlighting your specialised skills and expertise, clarifying your professional values and passions, and conveying your personality and work style. The goal is to craft a cohesive, compelling, and authentic personal brand that resonates with your goals and allows you to build meaningful connections in your industry.

While personal branding was once seen as relevant only for celebrities and executives at the top of their fields, it is now imperative for professionals at every stage of their careers. In today's decentralised digital landscape, you are your own media company.

Investing in personal branding can help you grab the right opportunities, get ahead of competitors, establish yourself as a thought leader, and shape your narrative. It's your key to owning your expertise and intentionally managing your career trajectory in alignment with your aspirations. With a robust personal branding strategy , you can differentiate yourself, highlight the value you bring, and begin to reap the rewards of a distinguished personal brand.

Building Trust and Credibility

A compelling personal brand has the power to instil trust, respect, and credibility that can pay dividends throughout your career. When you consistently and authentically communicate your professional identity, values, and strengths to your audience, you build a foundation of trust that leads to meaningful connections.

One of the most valuable outcomes of effective personal branding is the heightened credibility you gain in the eyes of peers, employers, and collaborators in your field. When you have a clear and consistent brand, it signals competence, expertise, and self-assuredness. People are more inclined to trust in your capabilities and judgment.

Statistics bear out the power of personal branding for establishing trust . According to a recent survey, 64% of consumers are more likely to trust a brand if they perceive it as authentic and honest. This same principle directly applies in the professional realm. The more relatable and genuine you come across through your branding, the greater trust you can build.

This trust pays off in countless ways. You become known as a thought leader whom people look to for insights and opinions. You get endorsed for exciting projects and opportunities. You build a professional network founded on meaningful relationships. You can propel your career forward with trust and credibility and become influential. A compelling personal brand is the key to unlocking these myriads of opportunities.

Competitive Advantage

With an average of 250 resumes submitted for most corporate roles, you need a unique edge to stand out from the hordes of applicants. This is where a stellar personal branding statement can serve as your secret weapon.

While your resume checks the box on skills and experience, your personal branding statement communicates the intangible assets that make you the ideal candidate. It crystallises your promise of value in a concise, memorable way. This branding statement becomes your professional tagline – a compelling summary of your strengths, achievements, and the distinct perspective you bring.

An effective statement doesn't just rehash your resume; it captures your essence, ambitions, and motivations. It's a positioning tool that differentiates you from all the other qualified applicants. In the crowded job market, competitive candidates are a dime a dozen, but remarkable personal brands are rare and coveted. When you leverage the power of a unique personal branding statement, you gain the attention and interest of recruiters.

With just one sentence, you can move from blending into the crowd to being at the top of the interview list. While others rely on credentials alone, you'll have a personal brand that showcases your value and gives you an undeniable edge. The time is now to harness your distinct x-factor and craft a personal branding statement that propels your career search. Your competitive advantage is already within you; your statement will convey it.

Crafting Your Personal Branding Statement

Self-Discovery

Crafting an effective personal branding statement begins with self-discovery. You need to deeply understand yourself, your values, your passions, and your unique strengths.

Start by conducting a thorough self-assessment. Reflect on your career journey, achievements, and the moments you felt most in your element. These reflective exercises will help you uncover your core values and what drives you.

Identify your unique selling points (USPs). These qualities and skills make you stand out from the crowd. Whether it's your exceptional problem-solving abilities, innovative thinking, or unwavering commitment to excellence, pinpoint what sets you apart.

Clarity and Conciseness

A personal branding statement should be concise yet impactful. It should convey your essence without overwhelming your audience with information. Clarity is paramount in ensuring your message is understood and remembered.

Consider this: the average attention span of an adult is around 8 seconds. In this short window, your statement should captivate the reader or listener and make them want to learn more about you.

A well-crafted personal branding statement is typically a brief, one to two-sentence declaration of your professional identity. It should answer the fundamental question: “Who are you, and what can you offer?” To maintain clarity, avoid jargon and complex language that might confuse your audience.

Authenticity

Authenticity is the cornerstone of an effective personal branding statement. It's about being genuine to yourself while crafting a professional image.

Your personal brand should reflect your fundamental values and passions. If your branding statement doesn't align with who you are, it will be inauthentic, harming your credibility.

Research shows that 86% of consumers value authenticity when choosing brands to support. The same principle applies to personal brands in the professional context. People are more likely to connect with and trust authentic individuals.

Language and Tone

Choosing the correct language and tone for your personal branding statement is crucial. It should resonate with your target audience and convey the right message for your industry and goals.

Consider the industry you're in and the audience you want to reach. Are you in a creative field where a more informal tone is acceptable, or is your industry more formal and traditional? Tailor your language and style accordingly.

For instance, if you're in the tech industry, your language may lean towards being concise and technical. At the same time, a personal branding statement in the arts may allow for more creativity and expressive language.

Leveraging Your Personal Branding Statement

Online presence.

Your personal branding statement should extend across your online presence. Your LinkedIn profile, personal website, and other professional platforms should prominently feature your statement.

Consistency is key here. Ensure that your branding statement aligns with the content and messaging on your online profiles. This consistency reinforces your brand and helps people remember it.

Remember, your online presence is often your first impression on potential employers, clients, or collaborators. Make it count.

Networking and Elevator Pitch

Your personal branding statement also plays a crucial role in networking. When you meet new people in a professional context, your elevator pitch should echo the essence of your statement.

An elevator pitch is a brief introduction summarising who you are, what you do, and why you're valuable in the time it takes for an elevator ride. It's a helpful tool for making a memorable impression in networking situations.

Your personal branding statement is the foundation for your elevator pitch, ensuring that your introduction aligns with your brand.

Job Search and Interviews

Your personal branding statement can be a game-changer during job searches and interviews. It provides a concise yet comprehensive snapshot of your professional identity, making it easier for potential employers to understand what you bring.

When crafting your resume and cover letter , ensure your personal branding statement is featured prominently. Use it as the guiding principle for the content you include.

In interviews, refer to your branding statement to reinforce your key strengths and values. It can serve as a compass for answering questions about your career goals and what makes you an ideal candidate.

Success Stories and Case Studies

Real-life examples.

To illustrate the power of personal branding statements, let's explore a few real-life success stories.

Example 1: Sarah's Journey in Marketing

As a marketing professional, Sarah crafted a personal branding statement highlighting her passion for storytelling and her ability to create memorable brand experiences. She consistently shared social media content showcasing her marketing expertise and commitment to authenticity. This branding strategy significantly increased her professional network and landed her a dream job at a prominent marketing agency .

Example 2: John's Tech Expertise

An IT specialist, John used his personal branding statement to emphasise his problem-solving skills and dedication to staying updated with the latest tech trends. He incorporated this statement into his LinkedIn profile and regularly shared insightful tech articles. This consistent online presence caught the attention of recruiters, leading to multiple job offers in the tech industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the ideal length for a personal branding statement.

A personal branding statement should be concise, typically one to two sentences. It should capture your essence and value succinctly.

Can my personal branding statement evolve?

Your personal branding statement can evolve as your career and goals change. It's essential to keep it updated to reflect your current professional identity.

Is personal branding limited to specific professions?

No, personal branding is relevant across various professions and industries. It's a valuable tool for anyone looking to stand out professionally.

How can I measure the impact of my personal branding statement?

You can measure the impact of your personal branding statement through metrics like increased networking opportunities, job offers, or engagement on your online profiles.

Should I seek professional help crafting my personal branding statement?

Whether you craft your personal branding statement independently or seek professional assistance depends on your comfort level and needs. Some individuals benefit from the expertise of branding professionals, while others successfully create their statements themselves.

A compelling personal branding statement is far more than just a string of words—it is a pivotal tool that can profoundly impact your professional trajectory. When thoughtfully crafted and leveraged, your statement unleashes many career-boosting benefits .

You now understand that a stand-out personal branding statement is vital to thrive in today's competitive landscape. You recognise the need for rigorous self-examination and refinement to develop a statement that authentically reflects your essence. Most importantly, you have realised that your statement is not an empty tagline but a powerful instrument to achieve your most significant career aspirations.

The value of your personal branding statement is only fully realised through consistent, multifaceted application. Integrate it prominently on your resume, website, and LinkedIn profile. Use it to introduce yourself and make memorable first impressions. Let it guide your networking conversations, media appearances and everyday interactions. Become the embodiment of your statement.

Approached holistically in this manner, your personal branding statement will open up new opportunities. It builds immense trust and credibility. It gets you noticed by the right people. It ascends you to thought leader status. It makes you magnetic to those who can propel your goals. Now is the time to begin harnessing your statement's immense power. Craft it with care, leverage it with consistency, and prepare to reach exhilarating new heights in your career. Your personal branding statement is ready to launch you into your greatest professional ambitions—infinite possibilities.

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10 personal brand statements to put all eyes on you

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What’s a personal brand statement?

How to put your personal brand statement to use

Benefits of crafting a personal brand statement, how to write a personal brand statement: 6 steps, 10 personal brand statement examples, it’s time to market yourself.

“Just do it.” “Because you’re worth it.” “All the news that’s fit to print.” At least one of these phrases is probably familiar. You might even see corresponding products or brands flash before your eyes. 

Big brands carefully construct slogans, catchphrases, and mission statements that are so catchy they pop into your head too often. This is great branding in action. These phrases get stuck in your head and impact your decision-making , insert themselves into conversations so people remember them more, and affect what you purchase or use.

But brand awareness isn’t limited to big business — you can apply it to your career, too. Whether you’re a freelancer or mid-level manager, lawyer or content creator, marketing yourself with a personal brand statement helps you control your professional narrative.

What’s a personal brand statement? 

A personal brand statement is 1–3 sentences that clearly illustrate who you are, what you do, and what makes you unique professionally. It summarizes your skills, experience, and vision so readers quickly understand your value.

A great personal brand statement is snappy and attention-grabbing, demonstrates your personality, and balances professionalism and personableness. 

Think of it as an elevator pitch . If you had to self-promote to a recruiter, potential employer, or client, this statement tells them why you stand out and leaves them wanting to know more.

You can use your personal brand statement in several professional materials and platforms. Anywhere you network , job search , or show off your brand is a great place to add your statement. This includes:

Your resume or CV ’s mission statement

Incorporated into your personal value statement or career statement

Any social media platforms where you have a professional online presence, like your Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn profile

A professional website or online portfolio

Since your personal brand lives on many platforms, you may have to edit your statement to follow character limits on social media profiles or appeal to a specific target audience. 

Imagine you’re a graphic designer that makes design video tutorials to promote your work. Your selling points for a potential employer or client might not be as effective on your social audience. You’ll need to revise your statement to fit different requirements while maintaining a consistent brand image across platforms.

Here’s how your personal brand statement template might change from one platform to another:

Your resume:

“Award-winning graphic designer and digital marketing consultant with 15 years of experience. I’m insatiably curious, motivated by storytelling, and passionate about building impactful brands through the power of design.”

Your YouTube channel:

“I’m [name], an award-winning graphic designer, consultant, and teacher who wants to show you how to tell incredible stories through design. 

Let’s start creating!”

Your portfolio website:

“I build ridiculously good-looking brands. 

Hire an award-winning graphic designer and consultant who brings 15 years of storytelling expertise to your team.”

All three statements communicate the same important details, such as years of experience, job title, and reputation. Together, they build a strong personal brand that’s consistent and recognizable across platforms.

Successful entrepreneurs and professionals know there’s always an opportunity around the corner. Ensuring you have a good personal brand statement is an essential marketing strategy for leaving a good first impression on anyone that visits your website or scans your social accounts. 

Here are four benefits for crafting a solid personal brand statement:

Provides job opportunities: A good personal brand statement aligns you with the job opportunities that fit your skills and profile. Showing off your best self helps you catch the eyes of recruiters, hiring managers , and potential business partners. 

Increases your self-awareness: Personal brand statements require you to think about your career strategically, as if you were a small business. You can regularly revisit your personal brand statement to build self-awareness regarding your intentions, sense of purpose , and personal development goals. 

Controls the narrative: A personal brand statement allows you to tell your story and manage people’s impressions of you. You can choose the characteristics and accomplishments you want people to imagine when they think about you.

Helps you build your network: You never know when a networking opportunity will pop up. Having a go-to elevator pitch to introduce yourself in professional situations or creating online marketing materials that speak on your behalf will strengthen your potential for new relationships.

Selling yourself in just a few sentences requires creativity, intention, and careful editing. To create your personal brand statement, start with these six steps. 

1. Define your target audience

First, you need to understand who’s tuning in. This involves defining different audiences across platforms, like your website versus social profiles. 

To understand your target audiences, consider what you’re selling, as this value should be the focal point of your brand statement. If your target market is potential customers, this is your product or service. If you’re trying to network, it might be your expertise and skill set.

2. Identify your value proposition

Consider what makes you special. An effective personal brand statement leaves your reader wanting more, so put yourself in your target’s shoes: what would inspire you to stop scrolling and keep reading?

Examine your past experiences and identify consistent accomplishments, personality traits , and accolades. Maybe a manager or coworker frequently points out some unique skills. These are what makes you distinct. 

3. Express your personality

Depending on your industry, job role, and experience level, finding the balance between professionalism and personableness can be challenging. To get your creativity flowing , pay attention to how other thought leaders and creators in your field represent themselves.

Then add some creative action words to showcase your accomplishments. Or think critically about your positive personality traits to find what makes you stand out .

4. Be concise

With a personal brand statement, less is more. Most people skim websites and socials , and hiring managers only spend seven seconds looking at a resume . Whether it’s a recruiter checking out your LinkedIn profile or a potential client skimming your website, clarity and purpose help your target audience make the snap judgment you want them to. 

5. Write like everybody’s watching

Chances are high that interested hiring managers pay attention to your social media platforms , even if your profiles don’t relate to your job search or position. Ensure that the catchphrases, profile bios, and taglines across your internet presence are consistent and professional. You could also keep your personal profiles private so your target audience only stumbles on brand-specific content. 

And be honest about yourself. The purpose of your personal brand statement is to accurately represent your skills, experience, and reputation. If you oversell your abilities, you may end up disappointing someone that reaches out and realizes the pitch isn’t the same as the product. 

Don’t wait until you start a job search to revisit your personal brand statement across different platforms. Check-in with your statement regularly, like when you write your yearly goals , update your resume, or hit a self-improvement milestone.

If you’re unsure where to start, here are 10 examples of personal brand statements you can shape to fit your needs:

I’m a doctor and philanthropist who’s passionate about helping others. I’ve raised more than $5M for cancer research and can’t wait to share your organization’s cause.

I’m a ghostwriting professional that’s passionate about helping others bring their stories to the world. Let me use my five years of writing experience to help you complete your book.

Career coach with 10 years of experience helping freelancers, startup founders, and entrepreneurs kick-start their businesses. I’ve worked with small businesses and Fortune 500 CEOs. 

Let’s build the website of your dreams. I’m a self-taught programmer, YouTuber, and bonafide geek that loves everything web design. 

Detail-oriented copy editor and grammar nerd. I have experience in B2B and B2C SEO-driven content marketing. 

I’m [name], a maximalist graphic designer, illustrator, and lover of everything MCM with eight years of experience making brands of all sizes stand out in a crowd. 

Best-selling author, teacher, and public speaker. I’ve sold more than a million books. Check out [name of book], for sale at your favorite book-seller.

Lover of numbers. Organized accountant with 18 years of experience. I specialize in corporate taxes, budgets, and pricing. 

Communications expert and branding consultant. I build holistic branding strategies across web, print, and mobile that bring brands to life. 

I’m an economist with 20 years of experience in public policy and government aid for community outreach programs. 

Everyone has something that makes them a unique professional in their field. And the world deserves to know about it. 

Now that you understand personal brand statements and how having one benefits your career, it’s time to hit the drawing board. 

Start by understanding your value proposition and goals. Then write a statement that shows you off and is adaptable across different platforms. Just do it — you’ll be happy you did.

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Madeline Miles

Madeline is a writer, communicator, and storyteller who is passionate about using words to help drive positive change. She holds a bachelor's in English Creative Writing and Communication Studies and lives in Denver, Colorado. In her spare time, she's usually somewhere outside (preferably in the mountains) — and enjoys poetry and fiction.

Do goal statements actually work? Find out here

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10 Personal Brand Statement Examples to Inspire You

By Biron Clark

Published: November 11, 2023

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

Today’s job market and business markets are more competitive than ever. In order to succeed, you’ll need to set yourself apart with a good personal branding strategy.

And one of the first things you need to do when creating your personal brand is  establish a powerful personal branding statement. This short statement will be the foundation of all of your branding efforts moving forward, so it’s important to get it right.

In this article, we’ll look at tips for creating a unique personal branding statement , and 10 of the best personal brand statement examples to inspire you.

Let’s get started…

What is a Personal Brand Statement?

A personal brand statement is a one or two-sentence phrase that accurately sums up what you do and what you stand for. It’s essentially your unique selling proposition, the thing you do better than any of your competitors. Think of it as your slogan. The best personal branding statements are catchy, memorable, and attention-grabbing.

It’s worth creating a personal branding statement whether you’re a job seeker, freelancer, or entrepreneur. Anyone looking to network and stand out can benefit from having a great personal brand statement.

Coming up with the perfect statement is tricky, though…

It needs to be short while also conveying the value you provide to employers, clients, or customers. It should also have a certain level of intrigue that makes people want to learn more about you .

Your personal brand statement is the first thing people will associate with you, so take your time and come up with something you’re completely happy with.

So just what should a personal brand statement look like? It really depends on you and your personality, but below are some sample personal brand statements to consider.

Let’s say you’re a digital marketer . Your personal branding statement could be:

I develop powerful digital marketing strategies that help businesses find new customers.

Or if you’re a real estate agent you could say something like:

I can help you find your dream home for the price you want.

An effective personal brand statement is short and to the point, so choose your words carefully. Utilize words that evoke emotion and hone in on the one benefit you provide that people will be most interested in.

Don’t worry if you’re still not sure how to go about creating your personal branding statement. In the next section, we’re going to look at the best personal branding statement examples from around the web.

Creating a Personal Branding Statement: 10 Best Examples

It can be difficult to imagine what the ideal statement should look like on your own, so we’ve assembled some best personal brand statement examples from multiple categories. These personal branding statements have absolutely nailed it and are compelling, engaging, and extremely effective. 

Use the personal branding statement examples below for inspiration when coming up with your own.

1. “I help thought leaders write great books in just 90 days. 300 satisfied clients so far.”

– Mindy Gibbins-Klein

This personal brand statement follows a classic formula: “I help ___ do ___”.

The first blank is your ideal type of customer or employer.

Then, the second blank is the result you help them achieve. This can be their desired result/outcome of working with you, the main problem they need solved, etc.

We consider this basic “I help ___ do ___” formula as the go-to option for most job seekers, freelancers, consultants and coaches. 

This person then added a unique touch to their personal brand statement by including some social proof, where they said, “300 satisfied clients so far.”

Mentioning that you’ve helped many clients/companies succeed in the past is a great way of showing you’ll be able to help the next customer, too.

This next personal branding statement example uses the same general formula, so don’t worry if you don’t quite “get it” yet.

Here it is:

2. “I help manufacturing organizations improve their processes to reduce waste and grow profits.”

– Kent Blumberg

While this might appear a bit different than the first personal branding statement example we looked at, it’s also based on the, “I help ___ do ___” format.

(You could re-organize this to follow that formula word-for-word and say: “I help manufacturing organizations energize, focus and align their operations….”)

This personal branding statement does a great job of being specific in terms of the target customer, and result they’ll get by working with this person.

If you’re going to use this layout/formula for creating your own personal branding statement, you want to be narrow and focused, just like this example is.

So what type of employer or client can you help most? Large corporations? Growth-stage companies? E-commerce companies? That’s the type of phrase you want to use. In the example above, the target client is “manufacturing organizations.”

Then, the outcome/result of working with this person is also crystal-clear in this example: faster processing, less waste, and more profits.

Now let’s move on to some personal brand statement examples that get a bit more creative…

3. “Let’s build job-free income.”

– Nick Loper

Wouldn’t you like to have an income without having a job? Of course you would. That’s why Nick Loper’s personal branding statement is so effective.

Nick’s blog Side Hustle Nation discusses all the different ways entrepreneurs can build their own business and eventually escape the corporate grind. By using a term like “job-free income” he really zeroes in on exactly what his audience is looking to achieve, allowing him to immediately get their attention.

We love using the word “Let’s” because it shows that you’ll be partnering and working toward a common goal. At the time of writing this article, our own headline on our homepage uses this idea and says, “Let’s find your dream job”.

4. “Do you want more traffic?”

– Neil Patel

Ok, so this is more of a question than a statement. But every business and website wants more traffic, and Neil Patel has the knowledge and know-how to make it happen.

Neil is one of the world’s leading online marketers who is world-renowned for his SEO and traffic creation prowess. His personal branding statement is extremely simple, but it works because he has the reputation to back up his claim that he can, in fact, get you more traffic. Using a question is also a way to spark intrigue and curiosity.

There are no rules you  must follow when creating a personal branding statement. It’s okay to think outside the box and ask a question or do something different than the competition.

5. “Move well, eat well, think well.”

– Adam Cobb

This personal brand statement is another example of how you don’t always have to be overly sophisticated or clever. Sometimes simple is best.

Adam Cobb is a fitness and nutrition coach who aims to help improve lives through exercise, healthy eating, and spiritual awareness. So, his personal branding statement perfectly sums up exactly what he’s all about and how he can help you. If you can concisely describe exactly what you can do for people you’re sure to come up with a powerful personal branding statement.

Note that you could also adapt this to fit the go-to formula we looked at earlier: I help ___ do ___.

Here’s how it’d look: “I help people move well, eat well, and think well.”

Or you could even make it better-targeted and more narrow (as mentioned, it’s good to be specific/precise about who you can help). Here’s an example of how this personal brand statement could be narrowed further: “I help busy professionals move well, eat well, and think well.”

6. “Helping you build a big brand with your small business.”

– Kate Toon

Do you have a niche are a particular clientele that you service? Consider working that into your personal branding statement, as Kate Toon has done here.

Kate is a copywriter who specializes in helping small businesses reach a wider audience. She could have focused on her expert copywriting skills or her knowledge of SEO (search engine optimization). Instead, she speaks right to her target audience and tells them exactly how she can help them. Remember, it’s not always about what you can do, but also who you can do it for.

7. “Achieve social media mastery.”

– Mari Smith

Do you want to be great at something? Or do you want to be a master? Sometimes, it’s all about finding the right words in order to really make an impact.

Mari Smith rose to prominence as one of the leading authorities on social media marketing. She now provides expert training and consulting services to some of the world’s leading businesses. Mari could have promised to help people become a social media “expert,” “professional,” or “whiz.” But by saying she’ll help you achieve mastery of the subject she really sets herself apart from her peers.

8. “Create less content. (It’ll be fine! I promise!)”

– Brittany Berger

Sometimes by subverting expectations, you can really grab people’s attention. This personal brand statement is an excellent example of that.

Brittany Berger is a leading content marketer that uses a slightly different angle to get clients. She promotes actually creating less content, and instead focuses more on effectively using content to gain traffic. Wouldn’t you love to get better results with less effort? That’s exactly what Brittany promises. Adding “It’ll be fine! I promise!” also infuses a bit of personality into her statement, which helps improve its effectiveness.

9. “It’s time to unleash your epicness.”

– Felicia Hatcher

These days people want everything to be epic. So why can’t you be epic too?

Felicia Hatcher’s motivational speeches are legendary. As a former “C” student who secured $130,000 in free money for college, she helps show people how anyone can find success.

Her personal brand statement is another great example of how choosing your words carefully can make a huge difference in effectiveness. “Epicness” may not be a real word, but it tells you right away that Felicia is going to teach you things that no one else will, and probably have high-energy and enthusiasm for what she does.

10. “Be a unicorn in a sea of donkeys.”

– Larry Kim

If you’re ever unsure about what approach you should take with your statement, go for something completely unique and different to set yourself apart.

Larry Kim is a search marketing expert, and the founder of Wordstream and Mobile Monkey. His personal brand statement, “Be a unicorn in a sea of donkeys,” is completely different than anything used by his peers, and yet it perfectly conveys his message. Don’t follow the masses. Be different. Be special. This personal brand statement example is wildly creative and yet perfectly understandable.

Now It’s Your Turn

You’ve seen 10 of the best personal brand statement examples from real people and businesses. Now it’s your turn to create one for yourself. Consider your personality, what’s important to you, and the value you can offer, and come up with something that’s uniquely you.

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

2 thoughts on “10 Personal Brand Statement Examples to Inspire You”

“Be a unicorn in a sea of donkeys” – Genius!

I’m not looking for a job, but I think that considering my personality is very important for me and my personal brand. Thank you very much for the suggestions.

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How To Write A Personal Brand Statement (With Examples)

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Whether you’re looking for a job , trying to expand your business and reach new clientele, or searching for career opportunities as an independent contractor, writing a powerful and engaging personal brand statement can help you reach all your professional goals . A strong personal brand statement that communicates your values, skills, and abilities is the foundation for building a solid and versatile personal brand that will carry you through your professional career. Key Takeaways: A personal brand statement is 1 to 3 sentences that uniquely sum up your values, skills, and expertise. Write a personal brand statement by first picking your audience and medium , then brainstorm, write a rough draft, and edit. Emphasize your unique value in your personal brand statement. Personal brand statements are helpful for standing out and networking. In This Article    Skip to section What Is A Personal Brand Statement? How To Write A Personal Brand Statement Tips For Writing A Personal Brand Statement Why Is a Personal Brand Statement Important? 13 Inspiring Personal Brand Statement Examples Final Thoughts Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More What Is A Personal Brand Statement?

A personal brand statement is a one-to-three-sentence catchphrase that sums up your values, what you do, and your unique skills and abilities in your field of expertise. The most impressive personal brand statements read like slogans and work to capture the essence of your resume in just a few short lines.

That means writing a personal brand statement that’s short, catchy, compelling, descriptive, and unique all at the same time. Crafting a personal brand statement is much like writing a professional bio , in that it should communicate your personality, skills, and experiences.

A well-written personal brand statement is short and to the point and works to give prospective clients or employers an idea of what you offer and how you can benefit them.

Writing a personal brand statement is much like writing a vision statement , or a mission statement or slogan for a business. Typically, the branding message should be a short elevator pitch highlighting your professional skills and strengths or a unique value proposition.

To write a personal brand statement:

Pick your audience and medium. Before you write your personal brand statement, you need to know who it is for and how you are going to share it. Your personal brand statement could be for potential employers, clients, or peers to network with, or all of them combined. By knowing who you want to speak to, you will be more targeted in your words.

Equally important is knowing how you are going to share your personal brand statement. Will you share it on social media? Will it go on your personal website? Will it be supplemental material for your portfolio or resume ? The type of medium shouldn’t change the statement too much, but again, knowing what you plan to do with your personal brand statement helps you focus.

Brainstorm. Before you get to writing, brainstorm your values, your goals, your skills, and your experiences. Don’t worry so much about form or relevancy, the point is to get everything that makes you “you” onto paper. Once this is done you can have some more separation and look at yourself from a new perspective.

Write a rough draft. Write a rough draft of your personal statement. It is OK if it is longer than three sentences. The rough draft will help you focus in on your qualities you wish to define your personal brand statement.

Edit and get feedback. Here is the tricky part. You need to bring your rough draft down to something easily consumable. Pick your most important quality you want to define your personal brand statement. Be efficient and honest with your words to make it unique to you. Ask for feedback from your peers. It can help if you can find someone who is similar to your target audience, such as a professional mentor or former boss .

With this in mind you are on the right path to coming up with your own personal brand statement.

Tips For Writing A Personal Brand Statement

If it’s your first time writing a personal brand statement, we’ve got you covered. Many of the rules you follow when writing a traditional resume can also be applied to a personal brand statement. However, there are a few specifics you’ll need to keep in mind to write a perfect personal brand statement.

Here are the top five tips all professionals should follow when crafting a strong brand:

Understand your brand. Before you set out to write your personal brand statement you need to understand your brand and think about what you’re aiming to accomplish in your professional punchline.

To understand your brand you should think about your core values , what your most desirable skills, abilities, and qualifications are, what audience you want to appeal to in your personal brand statement, and what sets you apart from your peers. Having a strong brand identity will help you find career success.

Appeal to your audience. No matter what industry you work in, it’s important to think about your audience when crafting your personal brand statement. Knowing your audience will help you tailor your branding and marketing strategies and craft a message that resonates with career professionals and reaches your target network.

Emphasize your unique value. The best personal brand statements highlight an individual’s unique abilities and strongest selling points. By emphasizing your unique value your personal brand statement will serve to help you stand out and articulate your passions and motivations.

Be consistent and clever. Being consistent and highlighting your skills and services in a catchy way is essential in clearly communicating your brand. Ensuring that your personal brand statement is consistent with your actual values and professional abilities and is written cohesively and cleverly will help you stand out and build your brand.

Pay attention to your tone of voice. Your tone of voice can be very important when building a strong brand. Depending on what you aim to accomplish in your personal brand statement, you may want to use a casual, professional, or straightforward tone of voice.

Using an acceptable tone of voice will help your craft powerful branding that differentiates you from your peers and resonates with your target audience.

Why Is a Personal Brand Statement Important?

An effective personal brand statement can set you apart from the competition, help people recognize and remember you, help you network and find opportunities for career development, and grow your audience or client list.

Whether you’re a job-seeker, freelancer, entrepreneur , or employer, having a personal brand statement is an important element of branding and marketing and can be essential in finding and maintaining professional success.

Personal branding is also a great way for established industry professionals to find opportunities to participate in speaking engagement and professional networking events since the majority of professionals with a strong brand identity have an established online presence.

Personal brand statements are the perfect platform for showcasing your knowledge on a specific company or your industry expertise and can be displayed as an objective statement on your professional resume or your website, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile.

If you’re looking to get hired, land a big job interview, get a promotion , expand your professional network, and increase your likelihood to find overall career success, writing a powerful personal brand statement is essential.

13 Inspiring Personal Brand Statement Examples

When it comes to powerful branding and the brand development process, a little inspiration can do a long way. Here are 13 inspiring personal brand statements from established professionals across a wide range of occupational industries.

Marie Forleo. Marie Forleo, the host of the award-winning show MarieTV, keeps it light and simple with her personal brand statement. It reads:

Hi, I’m Marie. An entrepreneur, writer , philanthropist, and an unshakable optimist dedicated to helping you become the person you most want to be.

Nick Loper. Nick Loper, an entrepreneur and business coach , uses attention-grabbing words to connect with and draw in customers. His personal brand statement is short but striking. It reads:

Let’s build job-free income.

Selena Soo. This marketing and publicity strategist ’s brand statement is genuine, professional, and direct. The statement reads:

I’m a publicity and marketing strategist who helps experts, authors, and coaches go from ‘hidden gem’ to admired industry leader …and even a household name.

Adam Cobb. As a fitness and nutrition coach, exercise, a healthy diet, and a spiritual awareness are at the core of Adam Cobb’s life and career. He reiterates that in his personal brand statement, keeping things clear and concise. The statement reads:

Move well, eat well, think well.

Irene Koehler. Working as a personal branding coach, Irene Koehler knows a thing or two about personal brand statements. She keeps hers short, punchy, and powerful. It reads:

I transform accomplished women from unknown to unforgettable with a strategic, trustworthy personal brand.

Darrell Franklin. As the head of industry at Google, Darrell Franklin lets his leadership skills and industry expertise shine in his personal brand statement. It reads:

Innovation is in my blood…I seek to find ways to adapt when needed and disrupt when possible. For the past 15+ years, I have been at the forefront of digital evolution and transformation as an intrepid business strategist , thought leader, and functional operator , and called on to develop solutions and technologies that have enabled stronger customer engagement, retention, and loyalty.

Jessi Fearon. This personal finance and budget blogger gets right to the point in her personal brand statement. It reads:

Real life on a budget.

Tony Robbins. Tony Robbins is known for his inspiring self-improvement books and speeches. He’s almost equally as known for his personal brand statement. The statement is crisp and motivational, reading:

Transform your life.

Larry Kim. Larry Kim, CEO of MobileMonkey, Inc. and founder of WordStream, Inc., recognizes the importance of diversity and creativity. The marketing expert has set himself apart from his peers through a unique, fun, and nontraditional approach to a personal brand statement. The statement reads:

Be a unicorn in a sea of donkeys.

Brittany Berger. Content marketer Brittany Berger knows how to stand out from the crowd . Her personal brand statement peaks interest and grabs attention by challenging popular and traditional ideas. The statement reads:

Create less content. (It’ll be fine! I promise!)

Chandler Bolt. Chandler Bolt is an author and the founder of Self-Publishing School who, through a clever, motivational, and relatable personal brand statement, inspires his clients to publish their first book. His statement reads:

Hi, I’m Chandler Bolt. Six-time bestselling author and founder of Self Publishing School. There’s a book inside you, And my goal is to help you find it and go from blank page to bestselling author — even if you’re busy, idea-less, or bad at writing like me.

Ann Handley. This best-selling author and digital marketing expert uses a casual tone in her personal brand statement but gets straight to the point to capture interest and increase her marketability. Her statement reads:

Empowering ridiculously good marketing.

Andrea Perez. After an impressive career, Andrea Perez, global vice president and general manager for Nike’s Jordan Women’s brand, knows she’s valuable as a consumer marketer. Her personal brand statement exudes confidence and professionalism . It reads:

I’m a modern, fearless, digitally-driven, and globally savvy brand/ business leader with over 15 years of experience representing two of the most exciting, influential consumer brands in the world. I live for opportunities to deliver game-changing, digital and physical global marketing programs that deepen consumer connections, accelerate revenue, and drive brand growth.

Final Thoughts

Writing a short, strong, and catchy personal brand statement is the perfect way to convey your value as an industry professional and showcase your personality , passion, skills, and values. Summing up your experience and abilities in a personal brand statement or tagline can lead to various opportunities for professional growth.

By following the tips and examples provided in this article you’ll be one step closer to establishing your brand appealing to potential customers, professional connections, and employers.

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Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to Add a Branding Statement to Your Resume

What Is a Branding Statement?

• What to Include in a Branding Statement
• Where to Put Your Branding Statement

Update All Your Online Profiles

• Resume With a Branding Statement

More Resume Heading Options

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The growing popularity of personal branding and a job market that continues to be competitive has increased the use of branding statements at the top of resumes.

A branding statement is a short, catchy statement that highlights your most relevant expertise in about 15 words or fewer. If you include a branding statement, you can elaborate further on your key qualifications through a longer summary statement .

What to Include in Your Branding Statement

A strong branding statement conveys exceptional qualities, skills, experiences, or areas of knowledge that distinguish you from the average candidate. Your statement should express how you add value and produce results that impact the bottom line in your target sector.

Branding statements should be tailored toward a particular job and show how you have the qualifications to excel in that position.

Take an Inventory

Start by taking inventory of your accomplishments in your most relevant roles. Make note of the personal assets which you drew upon to generate those successes. Analyze the requirements of your target job and look for the overlap with your chief assets.

Describe Your Strengths

Select three or four adjectives that describe your key strengths. Weave together the adjectives with your desired job title or role and tie them to the value-added.

Where to Put Your Branding Statement

Your branding statement should be listed between the Contact and the Experience section of your resume:

Janna Cramson 1001 Northwest Ave, Apt 1 Bethesda, MD 20810 E: janna.cramson@email.com C: 555-555-5555

Creative, skilled, social media expert with five years of experience managing professional social media accounts.

Professional Experience

Social Media Manager , XYZ PR Firm , Bethesda, MD November 2020-Present

Also take the time to review your LinkedIn profile and the other information you have online to make sure it's consistent.

Taking the time to update your brand—and to rebrand yourself, if necessary - will help you remain a competitive candidate throughout your career.

Resume Example With a Branding Statement

This is an example of a resume with a branding statement. Download the resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more resume options.

Resume Example With a Branding Statement (Text Version)

Benjamin Applicant 123 East Street, Oakland, CA, 94610 Home: 555-555-5555 Cell: 555-123-4567 benjamin.applicant@email.com

DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR Detail-oriented development assistant experienced in coordinating extensive fundraising efforts and drafting successful grant proposals.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Development Assistant, Children’s Hospital, Oakland, CA July 2020 – present

• Manage fundraising efforts including organizing mass mailings and writing and sending appreciation letters to donors.
• Enter and maintain data in donor database; responsible for answering any questions regarding donor data.
• Manage general logistics within the development office through administrative assistance, such as drafting mail, filing, faxing, and answering phone calls.

Recruitment Manager, ABC Education Nonprofit, Oakland, CA August 2018 – June 2020

• Identify and pursue over 500 prospective applicants for our teacher fellowships.
• Maintain regular communication with more than 250 career centers and student organizations at top colleges and universities.
• Manage the company’s hiring process through resume reviews, phone interviews, and in-person interviews.
• Manage a team of three employees, training new members, and creating and delegating assignments.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

Bachelor of Arts, 123 College , San Diego, CA May 2018 Major: Marketing

Certifications

Certificate of Fundraising, XYZ University December 2018

• Received the award for best final grant proposal of 35 students.

What’s the difference between an objective, a headline, a profile, a summary, and a branding statement on a resume?

Here’s more information on each of the other options for upgrading your resume, so it’s more than just a list of the work you have done:

• Resume Objective : Short synopsis of your employment goals as they relate to the job you’re applying for.
• Resume Headline : Phrase that highlights your value as a candidate.
• Resume Profile : Brief summary (paragraph) of your skills and qualifications for the position.
• Resume Career Summary : Lists your key achievements, skills, and experience.

When considering what to include on your resume, decide which type of heading will best showcase your qualifications for the job. What’s most important is to make sure that you take the time to specifically relate your skills to those the employer is seeking.

You are here: Influencer Marketing Hub » Influencer Marketing » 9 Personal Brand Statement Examples To Help You Craft Your Own Brand

9 Personal Brand Statement Examples To Help You Craft Your Own Brand

There's a lot that goes into building a strong personal brand . And one of the most important elements of a personal brand is a brand statement. Just like brands and businesses have a statement that says something about them and their values, you need a strong statement of who you are and what you can do.

It doesn't have to be a lengthy account of your entire life and career. In fact, a personal brand statement is often most effective when it's concise and to the point. Ann Handley's personal brand statement, for example, is just four words:

" Empowering ridiculously good marketing ."

It says all you need to know about her as a marketer and thought leader.

So, what makes a great personal brand statement? How do you even go about writing one? We share some of our favorite personal brand statement examples to inspire you.

9 Personal Brand Statement Examples To Help You Craft Your Own Brand:

What is a personal brand statement, 9 personal brand statement examples for inspiration, why is a personal brand statement important, what are the elements of a strong personal brand statement, how to craft your own personal brand statement, best practices for writing a personal brand statement, time to build yourself a brand, frequently asked questions.

Your personal brand statement is basically a catchphrase that says something about your expertise and what makes you unique. It gives people a quick glance into what you can do so they'll be able to understand how you can be of benefit to them. And if it's catchy enough, that's how people are going to recognize and remember you.

Think of it as your elevator pitch or your personal tagline. It should be memorable, concise, and impactful. It's usually just a sentence or a few words, but it can say a lot about who you are and what you offer.

Let's say you're a designer. Your personal brand statement could be "Designing wardrobe favorites. " It's short but tells the reader that you specialize in fashion design and have a knack for creating pieces that people love.

Similarly, if you're a marketer, your personal brand statement could be " I tell stories that sell." Again, it's quite short and sweet, but it gives a clear indication of your skills in storytelling and driving sales. We cover this in more detail in our personal branding 101 guide .

Next up, who might want to see your personal brand statement? It's usually recruiters and potential employees. However, clients also tend to judge your expertise based on the personal branding statement on your website or social media profiles. And let's not forget networking events and conferences, where your personal brand statement can set you apart from others. 

We have included personal brand statements of people from different walks of life to make this guide more comprehensive. These statements are meant to give you an idea of what your own personal brand statement could look like.

1. Madalyn Sklar

I’ve been hard at work on a new project that is quite a departure from my usual social media marketing content. It’s about something much more personal, #ChronicPain . Take a listen to my story. Maybe the info will help you or a loved one. https://t.co/6O0NoikvCB — Madalyn Sklar (@MadalynSklar) December 1, 2023

Personal Brand Statement:

Host of the @KratomStory podcast 🍃 Previously known as the tattoo-wearing social media evangelist, Twitter Guru & Fearless leader of @GoGirlsMusic

Madalyn Sklar is a social media influencer and serial entrepreneur with 30 years of experience in social media strategy, community leadership, and digital marketing. She started her journey in 1996 with the launch of Cybersites Web Design, which was among the first-ever web design companies in Houston. She's also the founder of GoGirlsMusic, an online community that empowers and supports women in the music industry.

One of her most recent contributions to the digital world is the #TwitterSmarter brand with a podcast and X threads. The hashtag has become an international trend in which users share tips and strategies for success on X.

Why It Works

Madalyn's personal brand statement, right off the bat, tells you exactly what she is passionate about and who she wants to help. It's straightforward, energetic, and action-oriented. The use of powerful phrases like "rockstar results" and "just do it" captures the attention and motivates her audience to take action.

Her statement also mentions her motto, which is a key element in personal branding . It reflects her values and beliefs, which she not only lives by but also teaches to others. More importantly, she shows her specialization: Twitter. Yes, she's a social media guru, but she has a specific focus, which helps her stand out from the crowd.

2. Neil Patel

I'll never have millions of followers on social media. Sure, I have over a million followers on YouTube and over a million on Facebook, but I'll never have anything like a Tony Robbins, Gary Vee, or even a Kardashian. Why? Because my content isn't applicable to a wide… — Neil Patel (@neilpatel) July 21, 2024

Founder of @NPDigital. New York Times bestselling author, Forbes top 10 marketer, and creator of 1 of the 100 most brilliant companies by Entrepreneur Magazine.

Neil Patel is a well-known digital marketing expert, blogger, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. He started his career at the young age of 16, and since then, he has founded multiple successful companies such as Kissmetrics, CrazyEgg, UberSuggest, and NP Digital.

Neil's personal brand statement highlights his impressive achievements and credentials, backed by reputable sources like the New York Times and Forbes, immediately positioning him as an authority in his field and building trust with his audience. Plus, the statement shows his many roles, including entrepreneur, marketer, and author.

He follows a "show, not tell" approach by mentioning his marketing agency , NP Digital, and other achievements. Since the organizations that have recognized him as a top marketer are well-known and respected, his brand instantly gains credibility.

3. Noah Kagan

Noah Kagan personal website

Hola, I am the Chief Sumo at AppSumo.com, where we help entrepreneurs kick more ass. Before that, I was a cubicle monkey at Intel, #30 at Facebook and #4 at Mint. These are my stories on marketing, starting a business, personal improvement and productivity tips.

Known for launching AppSumo.com, a platform where businesses can find deals on software products, Noah Kagan is a prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and marketing. He is also a successful YouTuber, sharing business tips and insights on his channel. His personal brand statement comes from the About section of his website.

Noah introduces himself with a casual and friendly greeting, using the word "Hola" to create a sense of warmth and approachability. He states his current role as the Chief Sumo at AppSumo.com, again using a playful and unique title to show his creativity.

Next, he mentions his previous experience at well-known companies like Intel, Facebook and Mint, highlighting his impressive career journey. These mentions serve as the past experience section on a resume; they tell the reader that the person knows what he's talking about. Towards the end, he establishes himself as an expert in the fields of marketing, starting a business, personal improvement, and productivity.

Noah's personal statement works because it's not merely a list of his credentials. It also exudes his personal tone. Phrases like "Chief Sumo" and "kick more ass" are typically unusual in a professional setting. However, Noah uses them to show a more human and relatable side to his personal brand.

4. Melyssa Griffin

Melyssa Griffin personal website

I'm a former high school teacher turned entrepreneur who loves few things more than a good hug (my love language is Physical Touch, so I'm aaaaall for a tight squeeze), hopping on a flight to anywhere, and teaching people like you how to live an abundant and limitless life. 

Melyssa Griffin is a teacher-turned-entrepreneur who expanded her blog into a multimillion-dollar business in just three years. She shares her "secret sauce" for building a company in her online courses and mentorship programs. Her personal statement, even though not heavily focused on achievements, gets the right message across.

Melyssa's personal statement highlights her unique journey from a high school teacher to a successful entrepreneur, which in itself is an ode to her growth mindset. If she's done this for herself, she must know how to help others achieve the same growth, wouldn't she?

Like Noah, her statement also includes a human touch, as she mentions her love for a good hug. What makes her statement work is that she doesn't just list her achievements, but instead, she shares her passion for teaching and helping others. It makes the reader feel that she truly cares about them and is not solely focused on making money or gaining recognition. 

5. Sean Cannell

Sean Cannell personal website

Helping you build your influence with online video.

Sean Cannell is a YouTuber and entrepreneur who teaches his followers how to create a YouTube strategy for their businesses. He makes YouTube videos and creates online courses to teach his audience how to use video marketing to grow their influence and business.

Sean's personal brand statement directly addresses his target audience: individuals or businesses who want to build their influence with online video. He doesn't use "people" or "audience" but specifically says "you." That's a powerful word that makes the reader feel like he's speaking directly to them, which immediately creates a connection.

Despite being short, the statement clearly communicates what Sean does. It also carves a speciality for him—video—in the broader field of digital marketing. The specificity of his statement hits the mark.

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6. Jennifer Welsh

Empowering successful women to take control of their finances.

Jennifer Welsh is a financial coach and entrepreneur who teaches women how to invest in the stock market. Previously working as the Director of Employee Experience at Thrive Internet Marketing Agency , she has since founded several communities, including Money School and Audience & Income.

Jennifer's personal brand statement works because it's targeted towards a specific demographic: successful women. She doesn't specifically state that she teaches stock market investing but rather uses the word "empowering," which is indicative of a more holistic approach to finances. That helps her attract women who would be interested in Money School, her week-by-week strategy for debt repayment, budgeting, mindful spending, and stock market investing.

7. Nomadic Matt

Nomadic Matt personal website

I'm Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad , and the founder of this website! And I'm here to help you save money on your next trip.

Nomadic Matt is a blogger and travel expert who has been traveling the world for over a decade. He has a successful travel blog where he shares his time-tested tips for travelers. Besides being the author of two best-selling books, he also offers guides to help people travel on a budget.

Matt's personal statement has quite a conversational tone to it, which works well in his industry. He starts by introducing himself and his accomplishments, immediately establishing credibility. He then uses inclusive language, saying, "I'm here to help YOU," which makes the reader feel personally addressed and creates a sense of connection.

His personal statement is effective because it addresses a common problem many travelers face: budget constraints. The prior mention of his best-selling works further solidifies his expertise in this area.

8. Ann Handley

Ann Handley personal website

Empowering ridiculously good marketing.

Ann Handley is a pioneer in digital marketing. She is also a writer and a speaker who helps other marketers scale up their marketing businesses to deliver exceptional results. Her simple tagline says that she empowers "ridiculously good marketing."

Ann's personal statement works because of how strong of a case it creates for her work. The use of "ridiculously good" shows that her work is not just good. She's setting the bar high, which is an excellent way to draw potential clients in.

This statement gives you an idea of just how good Ann is at her job. It also gives you a fair idea of how approachable and relatable she is because the tone is casual.

In a more descriptive explanation, Ann says that she inspires other marketers to "create marketing magic." This gives you the idea that she helps other marketers do something that they once thought was impossible.

9. Shama Hyder

Shama Hyder personal website

Helping people find their zen in the digital age.

Shama Hyder is a digital marketing expert and keynote speaker who helps people navigate the digital marketing world. She has also written several books, including The Zen of Social Media Marketing and Momentum: How to Propel Your Marketing and Transform Your Brand in the Digital Age. Her personal statement is sweet and short, but it speaks volumes about her work.

Shama's personal brand statement is effective due to its closeness to her brand. She uses "zen" quite strategically, playing on its double meaning: first, the idea of finding balance and second, using it to hint at her global marketing and digital PR firm, Zen Media. Entrepreneur Magazine has also named her the "Zen Master of Marketing," so her use of the term "zen" aligns well with her already established personal brand.

Another reason why this statement works is that Shama positions herself as someone who can help businesses find that balance in the midst of all the chaos of the digital age. The absence of mentioning how she does so leaves room for curiosity and encourages potential clients to reach out and learn more about her services.

Your personal brand statement serves several purposes. For starters, it helps you stand out from the crowd. It's a representation of your skills, personal values, accomplishments, experiences, and characteristics that make you unique. You can use this statement to search for jobs or network with industry professionals.

Moreover, a personal brand statement allows you to tell people who you are instead of letting them assume your identity. It gives you control over how others perceive you. Carl Jung , the famous Swiss psychologist, explains this quite well by saying,

" The world will ask who you are, and if you do not know, the world will tell you ."

Your personal statement helps you take charge of your brand and shape it in the way you want others to see it.

When creating an online brand or portfolio for yourself and your services, a personal brand statement also helps bolster credibility. According to a paper published by Sergey Gorbatov , a PhD candidate at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, personal branding sits

" at the junction of marketing, sociology, communication, psychology, organizational behavior, and some would claim even accounting. " 

So, it's not just a statement but a psychological, sociological, and marketing tool to help you succeed in your personal and professional life.

A strong personal brand statement has the following elements.

• Conciseness: You want it to be memorable and easy to recite, so aim for about 1-2 sentences maximum.
• Authenticity: Your personal statement should come from a genuine place and not be generic or fabricated.
• Clarity: Keep your personal brand statement simple. Avoid using jargon or complex language.
• Relevancy: Your personal brand statement should be relevant to your current goals and aspirations. It should also align with the industry or field you are targeting.
• Achievements/Accomplishments: Include your most significant and relevant achievements to exhibit your skills.
• Personal Brand Personality : Your personal brand statement should reflect your personality and values. Let your uniqueness shine through.

Let's look at how all of these elements are present in an effective statement, such as Debbie Levitt's . Here's her personal brand statement:

I'm The Mary Poppins of CX/UX. I fly in, find the true problems, improve everything I can, make the magic happen, sing a few songs, and fly away to the next project… or I can stick around! I'm dedicated to transforming companies, departments, teams, projects, products, services, and experiences by focusing on the full arc of the Customer Experience.

The first sentence instantly establishes Debbie's personality. She stays authentic, clear, and relevant by explaining what she can do for a company. Her statement is also concise and easy to remember. She shows her accomplishment by explaining that she can transform the "full arc of the customer experience."

Jason Hartman , entrepreneur, speaker, and author, provides a comprehensive approach to creating your personal brand statement. He says,

" There are three main factors to consider in the process of creating your brand: 1) Connection with your niche, 2) A shared worldview with your audience, and 3) That you be trusted as a source of information. "

Here's how to put these factors into practice.

Step 1: Identify Your Unique Value Proposition

What is it that you offer that sets you apart from others? What skills, achievements, experiences, and qualities make you stand out? This is your unique value proposition.

Michael Hyatt explains this well,

" Your brand is what sets you apart from others. It's what makes you unique and memorable ."

So, focus on what you do best.

Step 2: Define Your Target Audience

Your personal brand statement should be targeted towards a specific audience. Identify who your ideal customers/clients are and what you can offer them.

For example, Jennifer Welsh's main audience is women. So, as we mentioned earlier, her statement specifically mentions helping women. Similarly, Nomadic Matt addresses travelers, and Ann Handley talks to marketers.

Step 3: Express Your Core Message

Gary Vaynerchuk , CEO of VaynerMedia, explains how to really make your brand shine,

" The best strategy for building a personal brand is to be 100% 'you,' without watering down your personality in any way. "

That's what you need to do in your personal brand statement.

Use action words to show what you do. For example, Shama Hyder's personal statement,

" Helping people find their zen in the digital age ,"

uses "helping" and "find"—both are action words that show her core message of providing guidance in the digital world. Do the same in your statement by showing the impact you aim to make.

Step 4: Keep It Short 

We've discussed this earlier. Your personal brand statement should be brief and must focus on the key highlights of your unique value proposition.

Keep it to one or two sentences, and make every word count. You don't want your audience to lose interest halfway through reading or listening to it. Also, use active voice to make your statement more engaging.

Step 5: Revise

Go over your personal brand statement multiple times and make revisions as necessary. If it helps, get feedback from others who know you well and can provide honest opinions.

Your personal brand statement is not set in stone. It can evolve and change as your brand grows and develops. For example, you may start as a social media marketing tips expert and later expand to become a digital content creator . Your personal brand statement should reflect this growth and progress over time. 

We have a detailed guide discussing personal branding tips where you can learn more. 

Here are some quick tips to make your personal brand statement worth remembering.

Tailor the Message to Your Audience

Your brand won't be for everyone, and that's fine. Speak specifically to your audience so that they know you mean business. As Laura Busche , author of Lean Branding , explains,

" People relate to people, and if your brand feels like people, they'll relate to you, too. "

Be Authentic

In the same vein, make authenticity the central theme of your brand. Don't cosplay to be somebody you're not. Today's audiences can smell fake from a mile away, and they will quickly turn off if they don't trust your messaging.

Dan Schawbel , author of Promote Yourself , emphasizes this by saying,

" The only brand you can sustain is the one that is authentic to you ."

Authenticity will also help you stand out in a crowded market, as no one can replicate your unique combination of experiences and personality.

Show Where You're Heading

According to Jack Trout , an advertising executive,

" No one will follow you if you don't know where you are going. "

Saying "I'm an XYZ expert" isn't enough. You have to show what you're working towards and where you want to go. For example, in his personal brand statement, Chris Do , CEO of The Futur, says,

"I've run an Emmy award-winning motion design/brand consultancy for over 23 years. Now, I teach the world how to value themselves and communicate their value to others through open platforms like YouTube, Facebook and Twitter."

He doesn't merely state his past accomplishments but also his current goals and direction, i.e. teaching others how to communicate their value. That gives his audience a reason to heed his message and follow him.

As we've repeatedly mentioned throughout this guide, your personal brand statement is concise, impactful, relevant, and authentic. Follow the tips we've mentioned to create a statement that best reflects your personal brand. If you need inspiration, the examples in this guide can serve as good models to guide you.

Most importantly, a personal brand statement is not something you write once and forget about. As you grow, it changes. The Harvard Business Review recommends an annual audit of your personal statement.

Jill Avery , a senior lecturer at the university, suggests:

" In addition to doing an objective self-assessment, you'll want to reengage your truth-tellers to uncover what your current image is in the minds of others and then make sure that it aligns with your goals. "

Keep this in mind to keep your personal brand statement relevant and effective. Check out our branding guide for more information. 

What are some examples of personal brand statements?

Your personal brand statement has to be strong, descriptive, short, and catchy all at the same time. Some examples include:

• “I help individuals reassess their life choices to discover their true paths to success.”
• “I develop sustainable business models and marketing strategies to fuel small business growth.”

How do you write a personal brand statement?

Creating the perfect and most effective personal brand statement can be tricky. Your personal brand statement is basically a catchphrase that says something about your expertise and what makes you unique. People reading the statement should know exactly what you can do and what you specialise in. You need to carefully choose the right words and arrange them the right way to get your message across effectively.

How do you write a personal statement for your resume?

Writing a personal statement for your resume is an important way to showcase yourself. Just like brands and businesses have a statement that says something about themselves and their values, you need a strong statement of who you are and what you can do. People reading the statement should know exactly what you can do and what you specialise in.

What is a well-written personal brand statement?

Your personal brand statement should be concise and reflect your abilities. Some examples of well-written personal brand statements include:

• “Empowering ridiculously good marketing.
• “Content marketing evangelist.”
• “Half geek – half marketing – 100% social nut!”
• “I grow companies.”

How can you write a great personal impact statement on your resume?

Steps to a great personal impact statement for your resume include:

• List all important actions you took
• Determine action words for yourself
• Tailor your personal statement to the job you apply for
• Focus your statement around skills and measurable actions

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How To Write A Personal Statement For Your Resume (With Examples).

You need to write a personal statement for your resume and are looking for examples.

You could make it easy for yourself and hire a professional resume writer such as myself .

But maybe your budget is limited – or maybe you don’t feel that hiring a professional resume writer is worth it ( Are Professional Resume Writers Worth The Cost? ).

Either way, no problems.

You’ve Come to the Right place.

The best way to write an eyeball-grabbing personal statement for your resume is by knowing what NOT to do.

I’m about to show you some examples of very underwhelming, yet typical personal statements. I will then explain what makes them so average – so that you don’t make the same mistakes when you write your own.

If you follow my advice, you’ll end up with a killer killer personal statement for your resume that will position you as the winning candidate in front of potential employers.

But before I get stuck into it, let me give you a quick heads-up. What I’m about to tell you will help you write a much more persuasive resume.

Brand Yourself.

The personal statement sets the foundation of your personal brand .

The idea of a professional or personal brand isn’t new. The term was first coined by business management consultant Tom Peters back in his 1997 essay The Brand Called You .

In it, Peters claimed that:

“You’re not defined by your job title and you’re not confined by your job description…You’re every bit as much a brand as Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop.”

What Peters described was a ‘value proposition’. You can begin to discover what yours is by asking yourself the following three questions:

• What makes you  uniquely attractive to employers ?
• What makes you uniquely different from the next similarly qualified candidate?
• And, most importantly, what organisational problems can you solve that no-one else can ?

Answering these three questions in your personal statement is your number one priority. To keep you on track, remember JFK’s famous inaugural quote:

“Ask not what your employer can do for you; ask what you can do for your employer.”

Example of a bad personal statement #1:

Let’s perform an autopsy of a personal statement taken from a typical run-of-the-mill resume that I found online.

Can you spot any problems with it – before I shine a light on them?

This example makes the wrong first impression with “Results-orientated…”.

Generic phrasing is a real snooze for recruiters . They look through dozens of resumes per day and most kick off with some variation of this line.

The second sentence in the above example starts well with an attempt to identify a skill that solves a problem and delivers an outcome:

“Possessing a track record helping to optimise operational processes whilst maximising profit…”

But then ends in a way that doesn’t make much sense:

“…within a challenging fast paced environment requiring high degree of communication, flair and the ability to meet tight deadlines.”

A personal statement for a resume needs to be snappy. A sentence should take up no more than 2 lines, have no more than 2 clauses or related to more than one core competency.

Snappy sentences bring impact. In the above for example, the writer could have made his/her point with much more impact by saying:

“I possess a track record of optimising operational processes whilst maximizing profit.”

What’s an objective?

It’s the once-popular resume item which now firmly belongs in the dustbin of history. You see it in the example above as part of this sentence:

“Seeks a challenging and varied position…”

Truth is, your objective is implied in the act of submitting your job application. By reiterating it on your resume you waste valuable real estate – and squander an opportunity to sell yourself.

Recruiters want to know how you can solve their problems, not how they can solve yours.

Example of a bad personal statement #2:

Let’s dissect another example of a personal statement. This one will teach us a few different lessons:

“Market strategy analist…”

This example shows us the typical shotgun approach – cramming all areas of experience in to cover the bases:

“…cross functional expertise in business and financial analysis, accounting, marketing and new business development…”

Serial entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk wisely told us: “ No matter what you do, your job is to tell your story”.

Great stories have structure, cohesion and flow – and so should the personal statement on your resume.

It needs to paint a clear and coherent picture of your expertise and value proposition, so avoid standalone sentences like the one in the above example:

“Proven history of improving operations and increasing profitability. Ability to talk and conduct business in French and Spanish languages…Excellent interpersonal and analytical skills.”

As personal statement examples go, the one isn’t ‘bad’ – but it is boring.

Whilst we get a good overview of skills and experience (albeit in a somewhat clumsy manner), it fails to tell us anything ‘personal’.

Research shows that more than ever, employers are recruiting for culture fit .

A personal statement for a resume should be an introduction to your brand – in your voice.

Absence of all pronouns (as we see in the example above), creates an impersonal, distant resume. Give your recruiters a voice that they can connect with by writing your personal statement in the first voice.

For example:

“I am a professional, committed and ambitious Chartered Internal Auditor with more than 20 years’ experience…”

The difference is subtle, but noticeable, isn’t it?

My Final Piece of Advice.

As you continue your research on how to write a personal statement for a resume, it’s important that you know a lot of the ‘advice’ out there is poor. Consistent, but poor.

Most of the guidance on writing a personal statement for a resume is dated. So-called ‘gurus’ will tell you to describe your best assets, focus on your strengths and highlight your accomplishments.

This approach might have worked 10 years ago.

To win in today’s job market, you need to focus on how your best assets, strengths and accomplishments solve organizational problems.

This is the core of your personal brand.

To find out more about my approach, you can read my interview with the Huffington Post – Building A Personal Branding Company .

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Personal Branding Done Right: 5 Examples To Inspire You

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Personal Branding Done Right: 5 Examples To Inspire You was originally published on Ivy Exec .

“To be in business today, our most important job is to be head marketer for the brand called You. It’s that simple and that hard. And that inescapable.” – Tom Peters.

Professionals in the digital age stand when they strengthen their personal brands.

Your brand shows people the principles and expertise you bring to your industry.

It opens doors to new opportunities for networking and career advancement. It requires introspection, effort, and courage.

Are you ready for the challenge of creating your personal brand? Keep reading!

What is personal branding? 

Personal branding is the process of building a distinct, public persona for yourself. You have to understand and define yourself to develop a consistent image and message that reflect you as a brand.

The way Apple has made a brand image for their iPhones, making your brand means consciously constructing how the world sees you. You are the product. You have to demonstrate your valuable qualities to communities where you thrive. 

Your personal brand matters 

Crafting your personal brand aligns with your personality, strengths, goals, and behavior. It allows you to place yourself in the world, giving you a sense of purpose and direction. In a professional context, a solid personal brand pushes you to the front of the line and brings you more confidence in your abilities. With a strong personal identity, you create a meaningful, lasting impression on everyone you meet.

Keep going to learn four more reasons why you should start branding yourself today!

1️⃣Take control of your story

When you create a personal brand, you carefully craft and present your own narrative. You are in charge of how others perceive you, so your story is told in a way that’s true to who you are.

Furthermore, by owning your story, you build a strong connection with your audience. When people see that your personal brand genuinely aligns with your values and beliefs, they’re more likely to trust you. This is how you build a loyal following.

2️⃣Show expertise

Suppose you’re a marketing expert. As you create your brand, you’ll share information about your experience, as well as examples of your work, success stories, and any of your awards to demonstrate your expertise in action. 

By presenting yourself in this way, you show potential clients, employers, or partners that you are a knowledgeable and trustworthy expert.

3️⃣Create connections

“Relationships are the currency of business,” said William Arruda. 

Your personal brand earns that currency. Your brand makes it easier for others to understand what you do and why they need you. By consistently sharing valuable and engaging content that mirrors your brand, your following of like-minded individuals will stay interested in what you offer. 

4️⃣Attract more opportunities 

When you differentiate yourself from others, people notice you. It increases your visibility and credibility in your field and, in turn, brings you more business opportunities, job offers , speaking engagements, or partnerships.

Learn from the best: 5 Personal Brand examples 

Creating a personal brand is more than just updating your résumé and TikTok bio. Take inspiration from professionals who have mastered personal branding. 

Ann Handley – Marketing

Anyone in the marketing space knows Ann Handley – digital marketing pioneer, chief content officer at MarketingProfs, and best-selling author of Everybody Writes . Her personal brand is all over her media footprint. “Empowering Ridiculously Good Marketing” greets you upon visiting her personal website. Her impressive LinkedIn profile invites you to take a look at her “Total Annarchy Newsletter.” 

In her own words, Ann Handley says she didn’t set out to build her own brand but tried to help marketers be better at their jobs, and her efforts to teach others have paid off. Her brand shows how being authentic and sharing your knowledge can go a long way in building your brand. 

Kevin Indig – SEO

As one of the best SEO experts in the world, Kevin Indig has a solid foundation for his personal brand: a professional website highlighting his work, a great Twitter and LinkedIn profile, a podcast called TechBound, and his weekly newsletter, Growth Memo, which has over 8000 subscribers. 

Kevin actively engages with his peers in the SEO community. From checking Twitter for article ideas to creating new opportunities for collaboration, Kevin uses his social media sites really well. See the following post, for instance, where he jokes with a friend about using a disagreement as an excuse to do a podcast together.

  Kevin Indig

 The success of Kevin’s brand shows how much community engagement matters for cultivating a good brand image. 

Claude Silver – HR

Claude Silver , the chief people officer – or the chief heart officer as she calls herself – at VaynerMedia, is an HR leader with an exceptional brand. Claudia has a vibrant website that reflects her personality, a newsletter, a podcast, and even merchandise. 

Claudia shares her thoughts about culture, leadership, and values that are important to her. What makes Claudia’s brand relatable is that she doesn’t shy away from talking about her personal life on professional platforms. It adds a warm touch and instantly connects with people.

Will Frattini – Sales

Will Frattini is one of those people who has built a brand by sharing his practical knowledge. The sales leader from ZoomInfo, Will, doesn’t actually have a personal website, a podcast, or the usual must-have brand elements. Instead, his brand grew from consistently spreading practical, actionable tips to teach sales execs how to sell better. 

Will also takes part in influential industry podcasts and webinars. His brand shows what steady, high-quality, and actionable content for your community can do. 

Daphne Costa Lopes – Customer Success

The head of customer success at Hubspot, Daphne Costa Lopes , is a true expert in personal branding. Her website’s sleek, professional look clearly communicates the value she offers. 

Her podcast, This is Growth!, is one of the top 15% most-shared on Spotify. 

Daphne is a big fan of the phrase “ invest in yourself .” She suggests professionals have a purpose, strong vision, guiding values, and a strategic plan to succeed. 

Customer Success Thought Leadership named Daphne one of the top 25 influencers in Customer Success for reflecting the success of her content, engagement, and lectures.  

How to build your personal brand

It’s time to create your own personal brand. Let’s look at some personal brand-building steps. 

Define who you are

If you start building your brand without knowing the real you, you create visibility without clarity. So start unearthing the real you. 

How do you introduce yourself? Job function? Title? Company? That’s not branding – that’s conforming to the usual standards. Ask yourself how you want to be known. Define your values, passion, interests, goals, skills, credentials, and areas of expertise.  

⚫️What’s unique about you?

⚫️What are your top values? 

⚫️What’s something you do better than anyone else – your superpowers? 

⚫️What are your true passions?

Answer these honestly. If you don’t have an answer to a question, take time to find one. Your responses will lead you to a brand statement that reflects your authentic personality. Find the keywords for which you want to be known. Link them to your brand identity. 

Spot your target audience

Your target audience is the community you’ll deliver value to. It typically includes influencers in your field, your colleagues in your organization, your peers in the industry, decision-makers like recruiters, your mentor, your friends, and your family.

Find out what your target audience thinks about you and what kind of value-add they would like from you. The best way to do this is to get their feedback and take action on what you learn. 

Claim your social media space

Now that you know who you are and who you are reaching out to, it’s time to present the virtual you to the world. How? With your LinkedIn profile. It’s the essential digital branding tool for delivering your first impression and forming a foundation for building relationships. Take your LinkedIn profile from OK to OMG with these simple steps:

⚫️Add a professional headshot. 

⚫️Write an exciting headline. 

⚫️Craft a compelling summary of your story. 

⚫️Edit your URL to read your name.

⚫️Link to websites related to you and articles you wrote or were featured in.

⚫️Get recommendations and endorsements from your peers. 

⚫️Make extra efforts to infuse your profile with your personality. 

Create or update your profiles on other social media sites like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, depending on your inclination. 

Create your brand website

Build your website using a website builder .

Your website helps solidify your brand. It should have a homepage that shows who you are and what you do. Highlight your portfolio, services, and testimonials of people you’ve worked with. Link to your blog, newsletter, podcasts, or whatever medium you use to share insights.

Invest time in perfecting the visual elements of your website. This includes your professional logo, fonts, colors, professional headshots, and video. The visuals should reflect your personality. 

Deliver your brand daily

With the foundation for your personal brand all set, it’s time to deliver your brand daily with high-quality content creation . It can be one-liners. A 2,000-word article. A 40-minute podcast. 

Consider the following content buckets: your passion, values, superpowers, education, accomplishments, success stories, practical tips, recognition, or testimonials. Pick one of them and weave your story around it. Share it with your audience, but always add value. Even if it’s a repost, include your opinion on it. 

Engage your audience to earn their trust. Ask them what they think about your views. Have exciting conversations. This opens opportunities to network with new people. 

Uncover the real you

Personal branding can seem daunting at first.

Defining yourself, creating content, reaching people, and gaining visibility take time and effort. But once you start building your brand, you stand to reap immense benefits – from career advancements to new partnerships.

Invest in your personal brand today to bolster your career for years.

Capture the attention of your network with IvyExec expert help for your LinkedIn profile!