Personal Brand on Social Media

Creating and sharing content online allows you to shape an online persona that reflects your personal values and professional skills, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence. Even occasional use of social media contributes to your public narrative. Conducting yourself online is just as critical as offline behavior, particularly for a career in digital marketing.

Research from ‘Using Social Media in the Recruitment Process’ indicates that 50% of employers are willing to examine candidates’ personal social media profiles, with 64% of hiring managers having viewed a candidate’s profile (like LinkedIn) at some point.

Building your personal brand on social media requires effort, but when done correctly, it can advance your career, help you make valuable connections, establish yourself as a thought leader, allow self-expression, and build a legacy. This blog explores 10 key steps to help you build a social media presence and examines the best social media platform for personal branding.

1. Update Your Social Media Accounts

With over 5 billion social media users globally, the average person engages with 6.7 different social networks monthly, according to Datareportal. Conduct a social media audit to determine which channels to focus on, then delete any outdated accounts. Ensure that your information on active accounts is accurate and complete to direct traffic to the networks showcasing you and your work effectively.

2. Identify Your Area of Expertise

Everyone has expertise in something, be it creating engaging content or having extensive knowledge of a niche subject. Consider the digital marketing experts frequently referenced by others, such as Rand Fishkin (audience listening), Neil Patel (search marketing), and Steve Bartlett (author, podcast host). Experiment with the content your followers respond to most and create unique, engaging posts on your chosen topic to establish yourself as a thought leader.

3. Use Social Media AI Tools

AI tools make building a personal brand easier by helping with content creation, social media management, SEO, market research, email marketing, visuals, and landing page optimization. Tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT assist with research and content ideas, while platforms like Sprout, Buffer, and Hootsuite automate tasks and analyze metrics. Tools such as Ahrefs and SEMrush optimize content for search engines, and Canva AI or Midjourney create professional visuals.

4. Regularly Share Content

The frequency of social media posts should be sustainable and not overwhelming. Posting 3-4 times a week is generally effective for individuals. Focus on a few carefully chosen networks rather than sporadically posting across many. Use social media hashtags, news aggregator sites, Google Alerts, or AI tools like AnswerthePublic to find content ideas.

5. Import Your Contacts

Import contacts from email, phone, or social media accounts to find connections you might be missing. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and X allow for importing contacts, helping you expand your network.

6. Be Positive, Engaging & Authentic

Your online presence should reflect your true self and values. Share original content that demonstrates your expertise and industry knowledge, and add personal touches about your life and achievements. If needed, maintain separate accounts for private and public use to manage your voice and content effectively.

7. Find & Join Social Groups

Join industry-specific or topic-focused groups on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn to share insights and build authority. Explore new communities on platforms like X Communities, Threads, and Discord. Use Pinterest Group Boards to share thematic content and engage in Reddit or Patreon communities for broader interactions.

8. Keep Your Voice, Image & Tone Consistent

Consistency in your voice, image, and tone helps in establishing a memorable and authentic persona. Maintain a cohesive style in your messaging and visuals across all platforms. Tailor your tone to fit the audience and platform, balancing humor, inspiration, or professionalism as required.

9. Study Influencers

Influencer marketing can boost your brand visibility. Micro-influencers, in particular, offer high engagement rates. Use tools like Meltwater, BuzzSumo, Heepsy, and Brandwatch to find the right influencers. Develop relationships and collaborate to leverage their audience for your brand.

10. Earn a Social Media Certification

Understanding social media fundamentals is key to building a personal brand. Gain knowledge in areas like social research, customer service, analytics, content, strategy, and commerce. Consider taking a certified Social Media Marketing course to learn advanced tips and optimize your presence across various platforms.

Which Social Media Platform is Best for Personal Branding?

The best platform depends on your personal brand, audience, goals, and industry. Here’s an overview of key platforms:

1. Instagram: Ideal for visual content like fashion, travel, art, and lifestyle.
2. X: Best for real-time engagement, thought leadership, and news sharing.
3. YouTube: Suitable for video content creators, educators, and entertainers.
4. LinkedIn: Perfect for professional networking and career development.
5. TikTok: Great for short-form video content and targeting younger audiences.
6. Facebook: Effective for broad audience reach and community building.

Final Thoughts 

Building a personal brand on social media involves strategic planning and consistent effort. By focusing on the right platforms and using AI tools, you can effectively showcase your expertise, engage with your audience, and advance your career. Consider enrolling in a Social Media Marketing course to enhance your skills and optimize your online presence.