Vickie Sullivan

Market Strategy for Thought Leaders

Resources  >> Personal Style Vs Personal Brand

Written by: Vickie Sullivan  |  May 01, 2014

Personal Style Vs Personal Brand

Had a great conversation the other day with co-founders of a B2C firm about the role personal brands play in revenue generation. Good news: They clearly see the connection. The interesting piece?  Because these two are showing up everywhere, they think their personal brands are clear.

Here’s the distinction:  Your personal brand is a message, a story that is bigger than you. It’s what you stand for. Your personal style is your voice — it’s how the message and story is conveyed.

Yes, you need both, but don’t confuse the two. A distinct style with no message is just that — a style. Without a strategy and cause, people believe they know you and make up their own stories about you based on their perception of what you stand for.  Not good.

Creating a personal brand influences those stories.  Big difference.

 

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Comments:

  • Author : Vickie Sullivan

    Published: 2014-05-02 09:19:10

    Many thanks Giselle and John for the kudos and insights. This distinction was in my head but didn't come out until I talked to someone. That's the power of conversation yes? When we separate the voice from the brand, we create even more tools in our toolbox to get our brilliance out there. You're right John -- they don't have to be big changes to make a big impact. I appreciate both of your brilliance!!

  • Author : Giselle

    Published: 2014-05-02 07:01:51

    Vickie, Thanks for clearing this up! In its simplicity it is hands down THE BEST definition of a personal brand and a much needed one at that. The difference needs to be clear between personal brand and personal style. Yours is a message that needs to be repeated - OFTEN! G

  • Author : John Richardson

    Published: 2014-05-01 06:24:36

    Great distinction, Vickie. I've worked for years on my personal brand, finding a style that resonates and content that motivates. I like the idea of separating them into different categories and experimenting. As a long time Toastmaster, I know how some subtle tweaks to the presentation style can make a difference, but tweaking the why or story behind it, usually is the driving force. Separating the two and trying different techniques may pay big dividends. Thanks for the great idea!

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