Often people wear masks when marketing themselves. That is because masks are a great way to stay hidden – if you don’t want people to see who you really are.
The problem is though, your mask becomes your brand. If you are not being authentic you may not be revealing the true depth of the value you can provide.
Why do people wear masks?
Some of the reasons people wear masks are:
1. People want to fit in. The marketplace can seem like one big masquerade party. Just copy everyone else, put on a mask and go incognito.
2. People believe a mask hides their weaknesses – “I’m not skilled enough or good enough to show my leadership in this”.
3. People don’t see their own value – sometimes the things that we do really well are so easy for us to do we may not realise the value it has for others, so we hide it.
A brand is either a business or organisation, a product or service, or a person. Your personal brand is how you market yourself as an individual.
A personal brand is made up of: your skillset + your personality/passion + market need.
There is not a one size fits all for any branding methodology – each situation is as unique as your very own fingerprints, and it is up to you to define your own.
When to drop the mask:
• During a career transition – to refocus your direction.
If you have outgrown your current role you are now wearing a mask. You may be making a small career change, such as introducing a new skillset, or a large one, such as an entirely different career role. Whichever the case, the people you work with may change and therefore so will the benefits you are providing.
• When you want to increase your value and/or the perception of your value.
You may have a existing and satisfying position in your work, but your perceived value to your audience in low. Maybe people can’t see the depth of your value and you may need to reveal it to them.
It is important to drop the fear of wearing the marketing mask and be authentic. The real you is way better than an inferior copy. So this month I encourage you to Drop the Mask.
The Symbolism of a Mask
The mask as a generic symbol means to conceal your identity.
In some cultures a mask was worn to intimidate others, and that says something right there.
Masks are also a symbol in theatre and can represent playing a role.
A mask can also be worn for protection.
Do you want to remove a mask?
Uncover the unique value of your personal brand.
For career, work or business. Find ways to communicate your individual skillset as a benefit to your market.
Try a one off brand coaching session or a personal branding program.
To find out more please contact me.
