Brand Building: Are You Living in a Bubble?

Someone once told me that if you pay attention to what a person says, over time they will reveal their genuine self.  What you say can alter your brand.   After all, we are a product of our life experiences and the knowledge we gather informs our perspective.   If you are living in a bubble, you run the risk of projecting a brand that is myopic or ill-informed.  That inhibits your ability to connect with others and may reduce your networking circle.

Here are a few statements from someone who may be living in a bubble:  

1.) “We have always handled things this way, so there is no need to change!”

Being closed to new ideas or new ways of doing things is a brand burner.  Your method may be the best.  But new ideas spark innovation and creativity. Who knows, you might uncover something new and exciting that will change the way things have been operating for the better. Be open to others’ ideas and don’t forget to collaborate.   When you “dig in your heels,” you potentially create a brand and lacks the desire to learn and grow.

2.) “Everyone I know has a bachelor’s degree.   People without degrees are not as valuable in the workplace.”

According to reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 34% of Americans over the age of 24 hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.  The majority of jobs in America are held by people with some or no college education. They work in a wide range of valuable roles, including skilled trade, customer service, healthcare services, and administration.  If you don’t recognize the value of those without degrees (or with less education than yourself), you risk creating a brand of someone that is an elitist or unable to see the big picture in the work environment.  Not smart!

3.) “My manager never tells me what is going on.”

I If you passively wait for news to be delivered to you, you might miss a lot of valuable information.   Your manager may not know what you don’t know.  If you have a gap in knowledge about a new project or product expansion, you need to take the initiative to become educated. Take charge of your situation. You don’t want to earn a reputation as someone who is out of the loop and also doesn't care enough to be proactive.

4.) “If it were important for me to take the time to complete the ABC certification or go to the spring conference, somebody would have told me.  This company is horrible at supporting my professional growth.”

A statement like this immediately brands you as unmotivated.   If you want to be branded as motivated, eager, and upwardly-mobile, independently seek opportunities for professional growth.  Join professional associations, earn relevant certifications, and attend key industry conferences.  Don’t wait for an invitation. Take charge of your growth.

The Bottom Line

Think before you speak.  Even statements spoken casually can harm your brand.  The deeper issue is that these statements stem from thoughts that indicate a person’s inward thinking that may be preventing the person from building a powerful professional brand.  Take the time to consider new ideas, seek the latest information, and earnestly take the initiative to develop yourself professionally.  With a bit of effort, you can burst out of your bubble to develop and promote a lasting and meaningful professional brand.