It takes 1 minute to grab someoneās attentionš„ and lose it š¤¢
Career success might take a lifetime but you have about a minute to tell your branding story and hit the mark
Someone asks you, ātell me a little about yourself?ā
What would you say in the first MINUTE?
Throughout my life, I've consistently pushed the boundaries of my career aspirations. As a musician, I aimed to achieve world-class status, touring internationally and garnering awards, and I did. Not only did I set out to release albums (8) tour with the likes of Simple Minds and Eric Idle, but I also published 3 books for artists and launched a songwriters non-profit, giving back as my relentless pursuit of helping others.
Transitioning into the tech industry, I wanted even more. I first began as a mere project coordinator back in my early Disney days with the ultimate goal of leading teams of project managers, directors and coaching C-Suite executives. Did I achieve it? Yes. This bold ambition led me to positions such as SVP at Paramount+ and head of program management and operations at Google, both managing upward of 150 people. Iāve talked on stages as key note on leadership and led teams in both Startups and Fortune 500 companies. Today I am a C-Suite/CEO āwhispererā coaching organizational transformation upwards $500M/yr run rate. If I were to even try to document my wide history of experiences not even listed here, Iād hurt my head.
Why do I share this? To boast? No. These are facts not fiction. Itās to inspire. To tell you - it is possible. You can be anything you want to be in this world. If you put your mind to it. I bet you have an enormous list of experiences, props and amazingness in your past and present.
The journey hasn't been easy, but my secret weapon has always been unwavering self-belief and cultivating my personal brand. And whittling it down to succinct information that people can digest. Literally, the first minute is so crucial.
What is a personal brand?
A personal brand is the unique combination of skills, experiences, values, and qualities that distinguish an individual from others. It encompasses how you present yourself, both online and offline, and the reputation you build within your professional and personal networks. Your personal brand communicates who you are, what you stand for, and what makes you different or memorable to others. It's about consistently showcasing your strengths, expertise, and personality to create a positive and distinctive impression in the minds of those around you.
In today's hyperbolic career landscape, your personal brand is your secret weapon for unlocking new opportunities and taking your career to the next level.
Whether you're on the hunt for a job, eyeing that big promotion, launching a startup, or aiming to be seen as a leader, how you present yourself matters more than ever before, both online and offline. And you have to get it right - in the first Minute!! No one has the patience nor ability to understand every amazing thing youāve done. You need to whittle it down to digestible information and hand it on a silver platter for people to comprehend.
Believe me, Iāve found it hard to do too!!
Making a Killer First Impression
You've heard it before: first impressions count, big time. Whether it's a glance at your LinkedIn profile, a quick skim of your resume, or a face-to-face chat, those initial moments can make or break your chances. That's why it's crucial to nail your introduction from the get-go.
LinkedIn: Your Digital Hangout Spot
Think of LinkedIn as your digital hangout spot for all things professional. It's where recruiters, potential employers, and collaborators hang out to learn more about you. So, make sure your profile is on point with a snazzy photo, a catchy headline, and a summary that screams "hire me!" Showcase your skills, accomplishments, and endorsements to paint the full picture of what you bring to the table.
Crafting Your Career Story on Paper
Your resume is your chance to tell your career story in a way that makes recruiters sit up and take notice. Skip the boring laundry list of past jobs and focus on what sets you apart. Tailor your resume for each opportunity, highlighting relevant experiences and achievements that make you the perfect fit for the role.
Social Media: Letting Your Personality Shine
Your online presence isn't just limited to LinkedIn. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and your personal blog or website are all fair game. Use them to show off your personality and interests beyond the office walls. Just remember to keep it professional and in line with your personal brand.
Wrapping It Up: Investing in You
Your personal brand is your ticket to success in today's digital world. By putting in the effort to perfect your online presence, fine-tune your resume, and nail those first impressions, you'll be well on your way to achieving your career goals.
So, go ahead, show the world what you're made of ā your future self will thank you for it.
xo,
Gilli