The current pandemic is proving to be synonymous with reinvention. From careers to business models, everyone has been forced to consider some sort of pivot.
If you find yourself currently out of work or questioning the security in your line of work, this is certainly the case. There’s no such thing as coasting in times like these.
There is such thing as a comeback, however. Take the time you need to feel those fears and self-doubt—journal, play hours of Animal Crossing, and find a way to cope.
Then hop back on the saddle. Whatever your next endeavour might be, here are a few considerations to keep in mind for growing your personal brand (and network) online.
Have an Opinion
There are plenty of things you should prioritize over becoming a thought leader. In growing your personal brand online, you’re not simply looking to generate “buzz”. You’re trying to build genuine relationships and express unique perspectives.
You want to convey to the world who you are and what you’re all about. Sometimes that means sharing ideas that go against the grain. Sometimes that means echoing others’ ideas while adding your own spin.
What you get out of your network is all about what you put into it. Take the time to form an opinion around what matters. Know your values and stand by them.
Market Yourself on Relevant Channels
Beyond having a clear idea of who you are as a brand, you have to know how to market yourself. Choose a channel you enjoy participating on. It shouldn’t feel like a chore.
If you’re a person of few (but profoundly witty) words, Twitter might be the place for you. Alternatively, if you prefer expressing your creativity through visuals instead, Instagram might be where you shine. And, of course, LinkedIn is a no-brainer for those looking for a more professional spin.
You don’t have to be on every channel to make yourself heard. Focus your efforts on quality over quantity, and push yourself to experiment with mediums you may have been previously unfamiliar with (e.g., video, photography, graphic design).
Additionally, make sure you’re spending just as much time listening and engaging with people you admire as you are speaking at people. Your follower base should be about making connections, not just increasing a number.
Seek Out a New Set of Skills
For those who don’t know who they are or what next steps look like, trust us when we say you’re not alone. There’s a lot of uncertainty right now—and that’s okay. You don’t have to have it all figured out.
The important thing is not to let the fear of the unknown debilitate you. Use whatever free time you have to take tiny steps forward in learning something new.
There are plenty of online education resources for adults to explore. The hardest part of making a career move is believing that you’re capable of doing so. Once you’re over that hurdle, the only way to go is forward.