3 Secrets to Reinventing Your Brand, Image, and Value

Everyone fears change, but change is the one thing we can depend upon as inevitable and unavoidable. Professionals tend to be afraid of reinventing and repositioning themselves, but we have to remember that if we don’t evolve we risk become stagnant, outdated, and replaceable. Whether it’s a change in attitude, mindset, look, or skill set – or a shift into a new position of responsibility – reinventing ourselves is an essential component of professional development.

You have the power to change, and the right kinds of changes will empower you. So regardless of what the economy is doing do not hesitate to reinvigorate and uplevel your presence because it will have the ripple effect of having a positive impact on those around you. That will boost your performance, your leadership capability, and your brand – and make you an invaluable asset.

1) Change Your Internal Perspective
The reason change makes us uncomfortable is that as we transition from our old self to our newly created self we are unsure of how others will respond. We may lack confidence and grace because we are still getting used to our new role. But all of that happens because we aren’t self-assured. So the key to successful change is to begin from within, first preparing and adjusting our mindset and attitude for taking us to the next level.

The internal component is also the core foundation of an authentic, credible, unique image and brand. So reinventing ourselves should always begin by taking a new internal inventory. Clearly articulate who you are, what you stand for and believe in, and how you define your vision and passion – both personally and professionally.

2) Discover What Makes Your Leadership Brand Unique
Using those discoveries as your guidelines you can then begin to see yourself reinvented in a way that coincides with your goals, dreams, and aspirations. You’ll know what brand components to retain and which ones to replace, and your new perspective and outlook will help you refine your external image.

Having a renewed sense of self – and of where you want your career or entrepreneurial business to go – you’ll also gain a better understanding of how to enhance your leadership development skill set. This is an excellent time to participate in a 360 review, getting candid but supportively positive feedback from trusted friends, colleagues, or mentors. They can help you identify unique leadership traits such as the way you communicate, the tools or techniques you use to inspire, and the external visible role model you offer for those around you to emulate.

3) Reinvent Your Look
Using this fresh insight you can polish and strengthen any perceived areas that require extra attention while you capitalize on highlighting your individual gifts and strengths. Play to your unique leadership assets and style to promote yourself through a reinvented image and brand, and make your new presence felt through innovations in your wardrobe that create a charismatic first impression.

Keep in mind that wardrobe is not just clothing; it is a powerful business tool that needs to be updated just as you routinely upgrade office technology. Wearing classically elegant wardrobe components that you modernize by adding some strategic trends will ensure that others see you as a forward-thinking innovator – with agile adaptability and vision.

What does your current brand and image say about you as it broadcasts silent messages 24/7? When you look around the next curve what do you see, and how do you visualize yourself in that dynamic forward-moving landscape? Is now the time to proactively reinvent yourself to coincide with a brighter and more successful future?