In a world where everyone seems to be following the same personal branding playbook, how can you truly stand out?
This newsletter explores strategies for differentiating yourself by intentionally going against personal branding norms.
Let's dive into some unique approaches that are simple to apply and can help you build a memorable personal brand on social media.
1. Embrace Imperfection
Traditional Approach: Curate a flawless feed with perfectly edited photos and polished content.
New Approach: Share your failures, mistakes, and learning experiences openly.
Example: Instead of posting only about your successes, create a weekly "Failure Friday" series where you discuss a recent setback and what you learned from it. This approach humanizes your brand and makes you more relatable.
2. Go Niche... Really Niche
Traditional Approach: Appeal to a broad audience within your industry.
New Approach: Focus on an ultra-specific sub-niche that no one else is targeting.
Example: If you're a fitness influencer, instead of general workout tips, specialize in "Fitness for Night Shift Workers" or "Exercise Routines for Small Apartment Dwellers." The more specific, the more you'll stand out to your target audience.
3. Adopt a Unique Visual Style
Traditional Approach: Use trendy filters and aesthetics that align with your industry.
New Approach: Develop a visual style that's completely unexpected for your field.
Example: If you're in finance, instead of the typical suit-and-tie imagery, use bright, pop-art inspired graphics and illustrations to explain complex financial concepts. This unexpected visual approach will make your content instantly recognizable.
4. Create Contradictory Content
Traditional Approach: Share widely accepted wisdom and best practices.
New Approach: Challenge conventional wisdom with well-reasoned arguments.
Example: Start a series called "Unpopular Opinion" where you present alternative viewpoints on common industry practices. Always back up your arguments with data and personal experience to maintain credibility.
5. Use Unconventional Platforms
Traditional Approach: Focus on the most popular social media platforms for your industry.
New Approach: Build a presence on unexpected platforms where your competitors aren't.
Example: If you're a B2B consultant, instead of just using LinkedIn, create short-form educational content on TikTok. The novelty of finding professional content on an unexpected platform can attract attention and set you apart.
6. Personalize Your Automation
Traditional Approach: Use generic automated responses and scheduling tools.
New Approach: Add a highly personal touch to your automated interactions.
Example: Instead of a standard "Thanks for following" message, set up an automation that sends new followers a voice message or a short personalized video. This unexpected personal touch can turn followers into engaged fans.
7. Cross-Industry Collaboration
Traditional Approach: Collaborate with others in your industry.
New Approach: Seek partnerships with individuals or brands from completely different fields.
Example: If you're a personal finance expert, collaborate with a fitness influencer to create content about "Financial Fitness." These unexpected collaborations can introduce you to new audiences and showcase your versatility.
How do I get started?
Ready to break the mold with your personal brand? Here are some simple steps to get started:
Audit your current brand: Identify areas where you're following "the rules" without question.
Choose one unconventional strategy: Start small by implementing just one of these ideas.
Test and iterate: Pay attention to your audience's response and adjust your approach accordingly.
Be consistent: Once you find an unconventional approach that works, stick with it long enough to become known for it.
Engage authentically: Remember, the goal is to stand out while still providing value to your audience.
Building a personal brand that goes against the grain can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to showcase your unique perspective and personality. By implementing these strategies, you'll create a brand that's memorable and true to who you are.
Start experimenting with these unconventional approaches on your social media platforms today. Your authentic, against-the-grain personal brand is waiting to be discovered!