Start Fresh with Intention
The beginning of a year—or even a new month—is more than just a new calendar page. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and reset. You probably already know the drill: review what went well, pinpoint what you’d like to improve, and define where you want to go next. But there’s one powerful tool that often gets overlooked in this process: a personal brand review.
Want Different Results? Be a Different Version of You
Doing something you’ve never done before requires becoming someone you’ve never been before. If you’re aiming for bigger goals, a promotion, or a new level of impact, your mindset and skill set need to match the mission. Your personal brand must evolve alongside your ambitions.
What got you here needs to change.
Whether you’re moving from manager to director, or from behind the scenes to a more visible leadership role, your brand needs to communicate the value and presence that aligns with your next level.
Here are three critical upgrades to evolve your brand and ensure you’re seen as the leader you want to become.
1. Re-Evaluate Your Desired Brand Image
Ask yourself: What do I want to be known for now?
To support your next-level goals, you want to be intentional about the impression you create. This starts with defining four to six key words that capture how you want others to describe you. These words act as your north star, guiding your actions and decisions.
Examples:
- A client who used to value being seen as “professional” might now aim to be known as “strategic” or “visionary.”
- Someone once praised for being “competent” might need to shift their image to one of “influential” or “inspiring.”
As you evolve your identity, your brand (how you show up) needs to evolve with it. Shifting from the function of what you do to the incredible value you bring.
Pro Tip: Write down your current brand words to identify where you’re starting. Then write the words that align with how you want to evolve. Compare the two, what’s missing or needs to change? That gap is your roadmap for leveling up.
2. Redefine Your Brand Behaviours
Ask yourself: What actions will reinforce this evolved version of me?
Once you’re clear on how you want to be perceived, your behaviors need to align. Brand perception is created by the consistent experience others have of you. People believe what they repeatedly see.
High-impact brand behaviors include:
- Volunteering for strategic projects
- Speaking up with confidence in meetings
- Being proactive and solutions-oriented
- Sharing your wins without apology
- Being exceptionally prepared
- Reaching out to leaders for coffee chats or mentorship
You control the energy and presence you bring into every room. Start with intention. End with impact
3. Reframe Your Brand Story
Ask yourself: What stories do I share to demonstrate how I want to be known now?
Every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce your brand. Whether you’re in a meeting, on a call, or making small talk in the elevator, what you say matters.
Consider this story: A leader got in the elevator with the CEO and nervously commented on the weather. Another colleague stepped in on the next floor, confidently introduced himself, and talked about a high-level project. Guess who made a lasting impression that was aligned with how they wanted to be remembered?
Your brand story should spotlight your value, your wins, and your direction. Have a few go-to stories or accomplishments ready to share at the right moment.
Pro Tip: Make a list of 3-5 recent proud moments that align with your goals. Practice how to share them naturally and with confidence.
The Bottom Line: Words shape perception. Actions bring those words to life. Stories connect and create the link of how you want to be known. Your brand isn’t static. It’s a living, breathing reflection of who you are and who you’re becoming.
Don’t leave your brand to chance. Set aside time this month to audit, upgrade, and own it. Open your calendar now and block time for your personal brand review. Your future self will thank you.
Ready to Elevate Your Leadership?
At Authentic Leaders Edge, we help professionals like you develop a powerful leadership presence. Whether you’re leading a team or defining your personal brand, Dorothy Lazovik provides tailored coaching to accelerate your growth.
Book a complimentary 30-minute consultation to explore how coaching can help you step into your full potential. Email today to get started!
