As the year winds down, many of us start reflecting on what worked, what didn’t and what we want to do differently in the year ahead. For me, December has always been a natural checkpoint, a chance to pause, evaluate and set intentions for what’s next. And there’s no better time to take a closer look at your personal brand.
Personal branding often gets mistaken for self-promotion, but the truth is, it’s about alignment. Your personal brand is the intersection of who you are, what you care about and how you show up in the world. It’s not about curating a perfect version of yourself; it’s about creating a clear, consistent and authentic one.
What a Personal Brand Really Is
Your personal brand is the meaning that exists beyond your name. It’s the reputation you build through your work, the values you embody and the way others describe you when you’re not in the room. A strong brand makes you recognizable for your expertise and memorable approach.
Developing a personal brand starts with three questions:
- What do I want to be known for? Identify two or three areas that define your niche.
- Who is my audience? Be specific about who you want to reach and impact.
- Why do I do what I do? Clarity of purpose is the heartbeat of every lasting brand.
Once you’ve answered those questions, write them down. Putting them on paper makes your vision tangible and helps you check whether your actions align with your intentions.
Crafting Your Brand in Practice
Creating a personal brand means treating yourself like your own best client. Start with the basics: a current professional headshot, an updated bio and consistent messaging across platforms. Then build from there.
Your mission statement communicates why you do what you do. Your value proposition explains why people should work with you. And your visual identity, from the colors you choose to the tone of your online posts, reinforces what makes you, you.
Digital presence matters. A polished LinkedIn profile, a personal website and even a simple quarterly email newsletter can help you share your expertise and keep your network informed. But consistency is key. You don’t need to post every day; you just need to show up regularly and with purpose.
Why It Matters (Especially for Women)
For women, a personal brand can be both a shield and a spotlight. It allows you to take control of your narrative, own your accomplishments and set boundaries around what you stand for. It also opens doors. When people know what you bring to the table, they can invite you to the right ones.
That confidence doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from preparation. Building your brand gives you a framework for talking about yourself with clarity and conviction, which makes networking, public speaking and leadership feel more natural.
And yes, as Muhammad Ali once said, “It isn’t bragging if you can back it up.” Talking about your work isn’t arrogant; it’s advocacy.
A New Year, A Fresh Start
As we move into the new year, think of your personal brand as a living project. It evolves with you. Set aside time in January to audit your online presence, update your headshot, refresh your bio and map out a few opportunities to share your voice, maybe through an article, a panel or a professional award.
Your personal brand is the most valuable asset you’ll ever own. It’s what connects you to others, defines your impact and helps you grow into the next version of yourself. The earlier you start investing in it, and the more intentionally you nurture it, the more opportunities you’ll create for yourself in the year ahead.
About Emily Griesing, Owner and Chief Strategy Officer, Bossible
Emily Griesing is the Owner and Chief Strategy Officer of Bossible, a brand strategy company for thought leaders and small to mid-sized businesses. Emily empowers clients to own their story, show up with confidence and build a brand that feels true to who they are. Through strategy, storytelling and execution, Bossible turns expertise into visibility — and visibility into growth.
Emily is a sought-after voice on brand strategy, marketing, business development, corporate culture and entrepreneurship, penning articles, public speaking and leading workshops for companies and trade organizations nationwide, sharing valuable tips and lessons learned throughout her career. Follow Emily on LinkedIn or reach out directly at emily@itsbossible.com.
*Any reference obtained from this blog to a specific initiative, issue or topic does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the Salt Lake Chamber. The views and opinions expressed in this blog do not necessarily reflect those of the Salt Lake Chamber.
