In our continuous efforts to “grow” our respective personal brands, I take time to reflect and share my experiences.

In my interactions with different people in this amazing community, I was invited to attend an online meeting to speak about myself or at least that’s what I thought it was!

I prepared myself for the event and logged in. I was introduced as someone who would be making a brand pitch to the many participants which also comprised a panel of judges!

Realizing that perhaps the communication to me prior to the meeting may have been misunderstood, I immediately engaged my colleague on separate messaging and indicated that I did not expect to be pitching my brand…but I had been announced as such and chickening out was not an option! My colleague responded that I would not be judged but was a guest pitch. I am not sure that helped my apprehensions!

I watched two pitch presentations before mine and was impressed at the quality of the presentations as well as the positive critique from the judges who took time to explain their observations and recommendations to the presenters.

Was I ready for this? Well, after very quick deliberations offline I proceeded to pitch my personal brand.

As I spoke, I realized that I was speaking not only to who and what I am, but also to what products my brand had to offer. I articulated the brand’s vision, mission and what plans I was pursing to actualise the vision.

After the presentation I dighted at how awakening the experience was for me. It made me realise that a personal brand is expected to have an offering or a mix of offerings no matter the scale. Further that to increase a portfolio, one must be consciously invested in the activity.

I encourage introspection that will help identify personal brand portfolio or mix. This will also inform the strategy towards your captive market, whether it is an employer or a broader target.

Keep going and make the best out of every situation.

Let’s share!