5 Ways Personal Branding Helps Your Career (and 5 Ways Neglecting It Hurts)

This issue is presented by:

The Bestselling Personal Branding Book …

Front & Center Leadership by Brandon Birkmeyer

So I just finished recording a one-hour personal brand training for the Society of Human Resource Management in Atlanta, but wanted to take a moment to post this article and share some fun thoughts on why personal branding is so important for career professionals.

I also shared a podcast this week titled, “Is Your Personal Brand Helping or Hurting Your Career.” Check it out! (click here to listen)

Did you know? According to a LinkedIn study, 70% of employers screen candidates online before making a hiring decision, and 85% of hiring managers say a strong personal brand influences their choices. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching a business, or establishing yourself as a thought leader, your personal brand is working for—or against—you every day.

Personal branding isn’t just for influencers or entrepreneurs. It’s a key driver of career success in any industry. When you actively build your brand, you open doors to new opportunities. When you ignore it, you risk becoming invisible.

Here are five ways personal branding can help your career and five ways neglecting it can hold you back.

5 Ways Personal Branding Can Boost Your Career

1. It Increases Your Visibility

A well-crafted personal brand ensures that the right people (i.e., hiring managers, industry leaders, and potential clients) know who you are and what you stand for. When your expertise is easy to find, opportunities come to you instead of you chasing them.

2. It Establishes Credibility and Trust

People do business with those they trust. By sharing your knowledge, experiences, and insights through LinkedIn posts, podcasts, or speaking engagements, you position yourself as an authority in your field. This credibility can fast-track your career growth and open doors to leadership roles.

3. It Attracts the Right Opportunities

When you clearly define your expertise and values, you naturally attract companies, clients, and colleagues aligned with your goals. A strong brand makes it easier to land roles that fit your skills and ambitions, rather than settling for whatever comes your way.

4. It Helps You Build a Powerful Network

Your personal brand isn’t just about you, it’s about the connections you make. A strong online presence and thought leadership attract influential relationships that can lead to mentorships, partnerships, and collaborations.

5. It Future-Proofs Your Career

Industries evolve, companies restructure, and job security is never guaranteed. But a strong personal brand ensures you remain relevant, adaptable, and in demand. When people know your value, you’ll always have opportunities—no matter the market conditions.

5 Ways Neglecting Your Personal Brand Can Hold You Back

1. You Become Invisible in Your Industry

If you’re not actively shaping your narrative, someone else will. A lack of online presence means missed opportunities, as recruiters and decision-makers can’t find you.

2. You Miss Out on Career Growth

Without a personal brand, you’re just another name on a résumé. In today’s competitive job market, standing out is essential. Failing to showcase your expertise can result in being overlooked for promotions, speaking engagements, and leadership positions.

3. You Have Limited Professional Influence

People with strong personal brands shape conversations in their industries. If you don’t establish yourself as a thought leader, you’ll have less say in important discussions and fewer chances to lead initiatives.

4. Networking Becomes Harder

A weak or nonexistent personal brand makes networking an uphill battle. If people don’t recognize your name or work, you’ll have to work much harder to build meaningful professional relationships.

5. Your Career Becomes Less Secure

When layoffs, company shifts, or industry disruptions happen, those with strong personal brands bounce back faster. Without a clear professional identity and reputation, you risk being left behind while others move forward.

It’s No Longer Just an Option

Personal branding isn’t optional, it’s essential. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or employee, your brand influences how people perceive you and the opportunities that come your way.

So, the question is: Are you intentionally building your brand, or are you leaving your career to chance?

Now’s the time to take control. Start by defining your expertise, sharing valuable insights, and building a network that supports your growth. Because in today’s world, your personal brand isn’t just your reputation, it’s your competitive advantage.

😝Thanks for reading! Do you have any questions you’d like answered? Email me at brandon@brandsonbrands.com and let me know!

Talk soon,

Brandon Birkmeyer

Personal Branding Coach, Bestselling author of Front & Center Leadership