p.s. Looking for inspiration and want to know more? Follow me here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olesijasaue/
Olesija Saue is a Social Media Strategist and Partner at Goal Social Media Marketing. Olesija is also a Personal Branding Coach for both seasoned executives and aspiring business owners.
Olesija is a serial entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience in Sales and Marketing.
As a former CEO of Forbes Estonia, she helped to bring the world's most trusted business media brand to the business audience in Baltics.
Today she helps corporate clients as well as aspiring start-ups and small-to-medium sized businesses to stand out from the competition and achieve their business goals through the strategic use of social media and personal branding of the CEO's and employees.
Olesija helps executives to expand their reach, maximize their influence and gain the trust of their target audience to increase the sales, profit and value of their company.
She is also helping Executive Teams with Social Media & Personal Branding Strategy development & implementation as well as strategical usage of personal branding in corporate communication and employer branding.
Olesija Saue is a co-author of a book on Personal Branding "The Brand Named You".
Olesija holds an M.B.A in International business administration and is a certified Executive Coach, NLP Classic Code & New Code Practicioner & International NLP Coach.
Available For: Advising, Authoring, Consulting, Speaking
Travels From: Tallinn, Estonia
Speaking Topics: Personal Branding, Social Selling, Social Media Strategy, Brand Ambassadors
Olesija Saue | Points |
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Academic | 0 |
Author | 258 |
Influencer | 95 |
Speaker | 102 |
Entrepreneur | 0 |
Total | 455 |
Points based upon Thinkers360 patent-pending algorithm.
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Date : November 21, 2023
Date : October 08, 2021
…Do you ever find yourself procrastinating?
I’ve noticed that when it comes to making my dreams a reality, that’s when my procrastination skills truly shine. But why put off what could potentially change our lives for the better?
I’ve discovered two strategies that help kick me into gear:
Combine Goals: I brainstorm ideas that excite and scare me simultaneously—projects that help me achieve multiple goals at once, creating a domino effect. It’s about finding a game worth playing. And making it FUN.
Accountability: I make my goals known, making myself accountable not just to me but to as many people as possible. Visibility matters:) And the fear of public humiliation by not following through pushes you forward through the I don’t feel like doing x…
I have an ambitious dream: to grow my personal brand internationally on a scale that’s both terrifying and exhilarating. This challenge brings all my inner dragons to the forefront, attempting to dissuade me. I’ve been procrastinating on it for quiet some time already- I’m too busy, I don’t have time, who am I.. the list goes on..
I also struggle with consistency when it comes to my email list, I fail to create a content plan for myself, I have thought about launching my podcast for years…again, the list goes on..
But what if I turned this into a game, an experiment that combines all the pieces of the puzzle and shares every step of my journey, including the ups and downs? My hypothesis: In today’s digital era, becoming an internationally recognized expert in just one year is possible and doable. And I have a plan which I believe is a win-win on multiple levels
To prevent myself from backing out, I’ve made a commitment: starting April 1st, I’ll be sharing my journey weekly in my newsletter, employing the “I.T.S F.U.N T.O B.RA.N.D M.E” methodology. I’ll share everything—my victories, my setbacks, and the exact steps you can apply to your own brand-building. Im ready to be vulnerable, to take tons of imperfect baby steps. I want to learn, grow, and, most importantly, allow myself to play. Let’s see where it takes me, but looking back at my experience, I’ve never regretted the crazy things I’ve committed to. Just the one’s I’ve never dared to try.
If you’re curious about growing your personal brand on a global scale, I invite you to follow me on this adventure. Will I succeed, or what will I learn? We’ll find out on April 1, 2025.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
I started to notice that with every passing hour, it more and more dims my inner light, skewing my perspective and eroding the joy and passion I usually feel towards my work.
So today, in between meetings, instead of tackling another “elephant” on my list, I took a brief escape to the park near my office. A short walk under the autumn sun became an unexpected catalyst for change. Surrounded by the symphony of rustling leaves and embraced by the golden warmth of the season, I was enveloped in a moment of profound reflection. As I sat, absorbing the distant hum of the city and the immediate sounds of nature, the weight of the to-do list began to lift. Not because its demands had lessened but because my inner state had transformed.
With my inner sun reignited, the mountain of tasks before me transformed into exciting challenges. What had before appeared as a burden now seems like intriguing puzzles awaiting my touch. Each item on the list shifted from an obligation to an opportunity.
This momentary pause under the autumn sun served as a powerful and much-needed reminder of the intimate connection between our inner state and our external reality. The world around us may remain unchanged, with its demands and pressures constant, but how we perceive and interact with it can be dynamically altered by our internal well-being.
The to-do list remains, but its nature has changed for me. Through a shift in perspective and a reconnection with my inner essence, even the most formidable tasks took on a new light. They became doable and fun again.
Life’s beauty isn’t just in the grand milestones or immense challenges but also in these fleeting moments of connection and introspection. There is tremendous value in pausing, genuinely observing, and diving deep into the rhythm of life.
Have a sunny weekend, and take time for yourself because you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
I’m super excited. This week, the “Digital YOU” program started, and wow, how many amazing personalities, stories, insights and perspectives are waiting to be shared.
It brings smile to my face every time I see a post in my feed from a person, who just couple of months ago was reluctant ,doubted, feared, or didn’t know what to share or how to share — now being consistently present with valuable insights, engaging ideas, and powerful stories.
I can’t wait to see the” Digital You” participants getting clarity on their brands and their voice, befriending their digital twins and stepping on a digital stage and staying there for the year to come. This is my main intention- to change the paradigm and and make a dounting task – I have to post smth, I must be visible into a fun and exciting posibility to discover and amplify our authentic voices in a space that once felt foreign and intimidating. For me, it is about facilitating the transition from daunting to doable, from feared to fun, because I.T.S. F.U.N. T.O. B.R.A.N.D. M.E !
In my opinion, the digital landscape has a notable gap — a space rich with potential yet conspicuously missing the powerful insights of numerous professionals. Many impactful brands and thought leaders in the physical realm remain unheard and unseen in the vast digital expanse. Years of experience and practical knowledge is not shared, not learnt from, not expanded upon. But here lies our immense opportunity.
There’s an eager audience waiting to be inspired by each and everyones journey.
Your story, insights, and brand have the unmatched power to influence, inspire, and reshape narratives in unimaginable ways. There’s a world out there hungry for the insights and stories that only YOU can share. If you’ve ever felt hesitant about sharing online, remember: your perspective is invaluable, your experiences are unique, and your voice can make a difference. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the conclusion of your hero’s journey to share your story. The real magic happens when you take that first, intimidating step. You’ll never truly know what you’re capable of until then. Furthermore, you’ll never discover who needs to hear YOUR story at this precise moment until you decide to share it.
I want you to invite to celebrate every new voice, every professional who shares their invaluable insights. Dont scroll by- stop, react and engage!
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
They are built around humans' need to connect and share stories. One of the key motivators for companies to venture into this space is the opportunity to communicate directly with various target groups.
Yet people always prefer interacting with others, not faceless corporations. So, who better to narrate the company stories than the employees themselves? Their experiences, thoughts, and insights reflect their personal growth and, if aligned with the overall communication strategy, help build the brand's visibility, credibility, and relatability.
The entire organization benefits when employees are trained and encouraged to understand and nurture their brands. Their networks expand, their influence grows, and the company's vision, mission, and DNA reach wider audiences through diverse humab voices.
The true impact is born only where an employee's knowledge, clients' needs, and business objectives intersect. Incorporating employees' personal branding into corporate communication isn't just a strategy; it's a mindset shift. It acknowledges that every employee is a unique brand ambassador with a distinctive voice, personal goals, and aspirations. When they resonate with the organizational culture and values, their individual stories, amplified by personal branding, carry unmatched weight. By sharing their experiences, employees promote the company and pave the way for their own development and career opportunities. It's a win-win solution, and it works.
Brand communication is no longer a one-way monologue but multiple communications, happening simultaneously in different formats on different platforms. Every post, every tweet, every story matters. It is impossible to control it.
So why not inspire, educate, and empower employees so that they consciously work for your brand rather than inadvertently against it? After all, they aren't just employees; they're the souls and hearts of the company.
Drawing from Carl Jung's archetype theory, it's evident that while archetypes can guide our branding, only humans can fill it with genuine warmth and relatability. Because, in the end, only humans can humanize a brand, breathing life and authenticity into it.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
A few years back, I was at this crossroads. I knew how to present myself as a marketer, but something felt out of place. I had the tools to package myself effectively, but it wasn’t working.
I started to look for answers, and I found that everybody talked about authenticity. “Be authentic” is still the most popular advice in the personal branding space.
But I couldn’t understand- “How do you do authentic?” Amidst the different roles, desires, and expectations, I couldn’t understand. Who am I? And what do I want? It felt like a puzzle with a missing piece.
This identity crisis took me on a journey to dive deep into personal branding, write a book on the subject, immerse myself in coaching, and unravel the intricacies of NLP.
On this journey, I came across an acronym, and all the pieces started to fall into place :
F. Find out who you are
U.Understand what you want
N. Now go and be and do it
Authenticity isn’t merely a facade; it’s a deep-rooted understanding and acceptance of our true selves. When we understand ourselves and our deepest desires, we find what brings us Fun and Joy. We find what makes us feel truly alive. This essence of aliveness and being yourself makes us authentic and emotionally attracts others.
Drawing a parallel, consider the difference between cats and dogs. While dogs often look outside for validation, cats symbolize self-sufficiency and independence. They act as they wish, always staying true to their nature.
Laetitia Casta’s insightful words, “Real beauty is to be true to oneself,” resonate with this sentiment. True power lies not in seeking external validation but in introspection and self-acceptance.
Moreover, a magical shift occurs once we embrace this authenticity and start doing what makes us feel ALIVE. We begin to magnetize the right people, drawing in our tribe and the customers who genuinely resonate with our essence. Just like this cat decided to take part in our photoshoot because we were having FUN
What is authenticity to you?
p.s. Looking for inspiration and want to know more? Follow me here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olesijasaue/
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Unmistakable personal styles that became integral parts of their brands.
Iris Apfel’s vibrant and fearless approach to fashion isn’t just for the cameras; it’s woven into the very fabric of her business. Every piece of jewelry and bold outfit reflects her design firm’s innovative and unique flair. Her personal style is more than a statement; it’s a brand manifesto that speaks of originality and authenticity.
In his signature black turtleneck and jeans, Steve Jobs wasn’t merely making a comfortable fashion choice. He was crafting a narrative of simplicity and innovation that became synonymous with Apple. When you think of Jobs, you’re instantly reminded of Apple’s sleek designs and user-centric products.
Iris, with her vibrant jewelry and eclectic fashion, and Jobs, with his iconic black turtleneck, both exemplify how an authentic style can transition from mere attention to lasting recognition.
In my own journey, red has been a standout in all my branding. More than just my favorite color, it symbolizes passion, a core value that defines me.
Embracing and showcasing your style isn’t just about standing out; it’s about creating instant recognition.
Here’s how to weave your style into your brand:
So, dig deep, find that signature element, and let it become the backbone of your personal brand story.
Don’t fit your style into your brand; shape your brand around your authentic style!
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
I work as a (………fill the blanks), but I’m also a (……..fill the blanks) and a (……..fill the blanks), and I have a hobby (……..fill the blanks), that I would like to become a business. I work for this company but also have my own business (multiple businesses). But all of them are so unrelated- how can I build a personal brand? How many brands do I need?
Here is where many people get it wrong. Personal branding isn’t a mere collection of hats we wear. It’s not solely about the different roles or interests we have. It’s deeper than that. It’s about our unique personal brand DNA, the core of who we are. And just like there is only one YOU, there should be only one PERSONAL BRAND.
Here is the secret. Seemingly unrelated disciplines can create the most beautiful symphonies. It’s the intersections of our diverse passions that make us unique.
Don’t just focus on the ‘what’ you do. Dive deep into the ‘how’ and ‘why’. When you do, all the ‘whats’ align perfectly. Weave your varied experiences into a narrative that resonates, offering unexpected value. Your unique value proposition that NOONE can copy is rooted in your personal brand DNA- a unique mix of your strengths, values, passions, why, style, and story.
That’s the essence of personal branding: a fusion of authenticity, varied experiences, and a genuine desire to make an impact.
Remember, it’s not the multitude of hats you wear but the unique way you wear them.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Everyone seems to be on the “build your personal brand” bandwagon. Surely, you’ve scrolled past posts boasting, “How I gained XX followers in XX days!” But behind these attention-grabbing numbers is the foundational essence that truly elevates a brand: its intrinsic Personal Brand DNA.
Personal Brand vs. Personal Brand DNA: Consider them as the reputation and the essence of your brand.
Your Personal Brand is the reputation that precedes you. It’s what people know about you before you even enter the room. Crafted through curated content, nurtured networks, and a cultivated image, it’s about creating an aura that, when you finally step into a room, gives others the feeling they’ve known you forever. And if your real-life interactions then either match or surpass these expectations, that’s when you know your personal brand is truly working in your favor.
In contrast, the Personal Brand DNA is that silent, soulful force that drives your brand from the inside. It’s the passions that fuel you, the values that guide you, and the unique essence that’s unmistakably you. It’s not a facade, not a mask, not a role—it’s the most authentic reflection of who you are, your brand’s very soul.
It’s imperative to strike a balance. An online persona that doesn’t align with your real-world self risks damaging your credibility. Authenticity is the game: if your online brand claims expertise, ensure that you truly embody it in person.
In essence, while your strong personal brand is the magnetic force drawing people to you, your personal brand DNA ensures that magnetism is genuine. Together, they create a brand that’s influential and deeply authentic.
While your personal brand is the reputation that precedes you, the DNA encapsulates the unique essence that underpins that reputation. Let’s delve a little deeper.
Your personal brand DNA isn’t something you craft overnight. It’s the distilled essence of your experiences, strengths, values, passions, and narrative. It’s the mosaic of intangible elements that make you, YOU. When you understand your personal brand DNA, you’re not just aligning with your authenticity; you’re living it. It ensures you’re not lost in the crowd but stand out in your authentic brilliance.
Personal Brand DNA is a combination of:
NB! The most compelling brand positioning often arises from connecting seemingly unrelated dots. They blend diverse facets of your brand into a cohesive, captivating whole. And when done right, they’re what make you unmistakably memorable in a sea of sameness.
So, take a moment. Reflect, introspect, and connect with your DNA. It’s the foundation upon which authentic brands are built. And remember, in a world of replicas, there’s only one YOU.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
The answer to all of them – NO I DON’T
And my favorite ending: Trust me- it will be worth your time. No, I don’t trust you. Because I don’t know you. And I see, that not only don’t you know me either, but you also have no interest in getting to know me either. How do I know? Because you didn’t even take a moment to look up what exactly I do and make it relevant.
LinkedIn isn’t Tinder-you can’t just swipe right on everyone hoping for a match. It’s about fostering genuine professional relationships. Understand their role, industry, and challenges before sending a message. Be more personalized, more genuine, more YOU.
And most importantly- don’t pitch the minute your connection request is accepted. Take time to build relationships and your credibility. Get me to know you, get me to like you, get me to trust you first.
Every message sent is a reflection of your personal brand. So, next time you’re about to hit send, ask yourself: Am I swiping right or truly connecting?
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Personal branding isn’t about ‘selling’ yourself. IT IS NOT ABOUT YOU. It’s about positioning yourself as a visible and credible resource for those who could genuinely benefit from your expertise and experience. IT IS ABOUT THOSE YOU CAN HELP.
Here’s how to build a magnetic personal brand without feeling ‘salesy’:
Remember, when you change your perspective from ‘selling’ to ‘helping’, you attract those who genuinely need and value your offerings. And that’s when the magic happens. Your personal brand becomes not just about you but about the impact you create.
What is your relationship with selling?
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
It might not be WHAT you’re saying, but WHERE you’re coming from.
In our rapidly changing digital age, the buzz about ‘personal branding’ often orbits around aesthetics, visibility, and outreach. Strategies, tacktics and algorithm hacks are all great. But a core element that truly determines the potency of any brand is inner Alignment.
Inner alignment is akin to the foundation of a building. It ensures the integrity, stability, and authenticity of everything constructed above it. Without this foundational alignment, the edifice – no matter how grand – is susceptible to crumbling.
Conflicting Values:
Imagine sailing a boat with multiple captains, each having their own compass pointing in different directions. Without a unified direction, the journey is chaotic, strenuous, and often unfulfilling. Similarly, when our internal values conflict, our personal brand lacks consistency, resonance, and power.
Unclear Outcomes:
A brand without a clear outcome is like an archer without a target. You may have the best bow and arrows, but where do you aim? Clarity in intention and purpose ensures that every piece of content, every interaction, and every decision amplifies the brand’s voice and mission.
Internal Picture:
Your internal picture or self-image acts as the control center for your external actions. A blurred or distorted internal picture can mislead your branding efforts. However, a clear, positive, and aligned self-image ensures you project your authentic self, making genuine connections and building lasting trust.
Inner alignment is not just about ensuring external success; it’s about experiencing internal peace, clarity, and direction. In the vast sea of personal branding, those rooted in inner alignment stand out and enjoy the journey, making impactful waves as they sail.
Before you look outward, look inward. As Carl Jung said:” Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes. “
Align your values, clear your vision, and sharpen your internal image. The harmony within will then radiate outward, creating a personal brand that is both compelling and authentic.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Personal branding isn’t just about the external image we portray, but it’s deeply intertwined with our internal beliefs, fears, and aspirations. And most importantly- our inner state.
There are many techniques to change our state, but the quickest and easiest is to change our physiology. You see, our body and mind are deeply interconnected. The way you position your body or control your breath can drastically affect your emotional and mental state. Ever noticed how slouching can make you feel lethargic or down while standing tall boosts your confidence?
Here’s how you can quickly change psyciology to change your state and boost your brand:
First:
Second:
Third: Now write/speak from the heart; it never lies. And it is the only way to reach the hearts of your listeners.
Remember, a strong personal brand is built from the inside out and the only one who can truly change your life is the one you see in the mirror.
p.s. this picture is taken at a MARIMO FASHION boutique in Tallinn. Follow the founder and lead designer Mariliis Pikkar for tips on how to inspire your confidence through fashion.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Imagine being backstage at a conference. You're surrounded by anticipation, the hum of preparation, and a touch of nervous excitement. The audience is out there, waiting. But until you take that bold step onto the stage, the value remains hidden, the impact unmade.
In the digital realm, it's not all that different. Many of us linger in the digital "backstage," hesitant to make our presence known. We worry about judgment, question our worth, and grapple with imposter syndrome.
But here's the thing: Just like on a physical stage, nothing truly happens until you leave the backstage of invisibility. Your unique voice, your experiences, and your perspective have the power to inspire and empower others. Your digital presence can be a catalyst for change.
The fear of visibility is a common, almost universal sensation most of us experience when we contemplate stepping onto the virtual stage. It's natural to feel this -it's a sign that you're pushing your boundaries and venturing into the unknown territory of personal growth. This fear can manifest in several ways:
1. Judgment: The concern that others will criticize your online presence and your thoughts can be paralyzing.
2. Imposter Syndrome: You might question whether you're truly qualified or deserve the attention and recognition you seek.
3. The Unknown: The uncertainty of how your content will be received, who will engage with it, or where it might lead can trigger anxiety.
However, here's the essential truth: Acknowledging this fear is the first crucial step towards overcoming it. It's a testament to your courage and resilience. Remember that even the most successful individuals started somewhere, often in the same place you find yourself today.
They, too, had to grapple with their fears and insecurities. But what set them apart was their determination to forge ahead despite these concerns.
They embraced the discomfort because they knew that growth and success lay on the other side of fear.
They understood that every step taken, every post shared, and every connection made was a step towards personal and professional development.
So, if you're standing at the threshold of visibility, remember that your fear is not a sign of weakness but a sign of your readiness to evolve. It's a signal that you're on the cusp of something transformative. Embrace that fear, acknowledge it, and use it as a source of motivation.
As you step onto the virtual stage and share your unique voice with the world, you'll discover opportunities you never knew you had.
And in doing so, you'll inspire others to do the same.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
A lot of focus in personal branding is on choosing the right channels, finding the quick strategy, refining the messages- all the “packaging” staff. And yes, it is important. However, the real catalyst for a magnetic personal brand isn’t your carefully designed logo or your polished elevator pitch; it’s something far deeper. Your inner state—your mental, emotional, and physical well-being—fuels your brand much like rocket fuel propels a spacecraft.
Authenticity: Your personal brand thrives on genuineness. When you’re in a balanced state, authenticity isn’t a strategy; it’s a natural expression. Its your essence that shines through- a beautiful reflection of who you truly are. And people can sense when you’re genuinely passionate about what you do, and that builds trust like nothing else. When your inner state is harmonious, you exude authenticity. And authenticity sets you apart in a crowded marketplace of ideas and influences.
Consistency: Your inner state is the autopilot that guides your brand. A fluctuating state can divert you into inconsistency, whereas a stable state ensures you stay the course toward success.
Emotional Resonance: Your inner state sets the emotional frequency of your brand. Just like a DJ perfectly tunes into the mood of the crowd, a positive state ensures your brand resonates deeply with your audience.
Communication: Your inner state affects the clarity and effectiveness of your brand’s voice. A calm and collected state enables you to communicate in a manner that is not just heard, but deeply felt.
Resilience & adaptability: Building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. Your inner state acts as your endurance trainer, determining how quickly you recover from setbacks and how smoothly you pivot when circumstances demand it.
Networking: Your inner state is the silent partner in every business relationship you cultivate. A positive state doesn’t just create opportunities; it attracts like-minded individuals and enriches partnerships.
Your inner state acts as a magnet that can either attract or repel. The more aligned and harmonious your inner state, the more influential and impactful your message can become. So instead of forcing yourself to post for the sake of posting, change your state first and write from the heart. It will know what and how to say.
p.s. Neuro-linguistic programming has incredible tools that change your state and thus literally change how you see the world and your role in it. So if you’re tired of running in circles, dealing with the same challenges over and over again, and you’re ready for a real breakthrough, I invite you to explore what NLP coaching has to offer. Feel free to write to me.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Let’s talk about two things that are so closely intertwined: feeling stuck and finding your inner light.
We’ve all felt like sailors shipwrecked on a secluded island, shrouded in fog that blinds us to our own brilliance. This island is our comfort zone—safe, yet stagnant.
Inside you is an unacknowledged treasure—your skills, your strengths, your passions, your talents, your self-worth. Realizing this treasure is your first step towards illuminating your world and the world around you. As much as I am flattered when people call me a ‘beacon of light,’ after the coaching sessions, the truth is, I am more like the moon, reflecting your inherent brilliance back at you.
Before you can shine, the fog around your island needs clearing. A guide or a coach can help you see your own capabilities and ambitions, effectively parting the mist and letting you see beyond the horizon of what you believe is possible.
Once you understand and accept your brilliance, uniqueness, and value you can give to others, it’s time to let the world see it, too. You need to be your own lighthouse. Your personal brand is that light, and when it shines brightly, it brings the right ships—clients, opportunities, relationships, and success—straight to your shore.
When you discover your own light, you find your true worth. And when you find your worth, you become unstoppable. Then and only then, personal branding strategies, tricks, and tips on social media etc. would actually work.
So, if you’re feeling stuck, remember: Your personal brand is your lighthouse, and you are the keeper.
And the journey from being stuck to shining bright is a transformation starts and ends with you. As a coach, my role is to help you see, own, and reflect your incredible light. And as a personal branding strategist, my role is to make sure, that it shines in the right direction for the right ships.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
The list goes on. And it stops amazingly gifted and talented people from thriving and making a true impact.
It’s not about ‘selling’ yourself. It’s not about learning new marketing tricks and tips. And it’s not about creating a facade but recognizing and embracing your authentic self.
It’s about understanding & owning your unique value and sharing it with the world.
You see, you DON’T need to create a personal brand – you already have one, whether you know it or not.
The real challenge is understanding that brand and presenting it in a way that your digital personal brand works FOR you, not AGAINST you.
A successful brand is an AUTHENTIC one.
Authenticity isn’t something you create, build, or copy; it’s about knowing and accepting yourself just the way you are – both strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. It’s about letting your uniqueness shine, and your voice be heard.
Personal branding is SO MUCH MORE than just packaging – what to post, how to post, where to post. It’s about getting to know and falling in love with the luxury product – YOU.
Here’s the key: Once you understand that you are a luxury product worthy of admiration and respect and grasp that you have a value that ONLY YOU can give, something extraordinary happens. You stop being afraid of “selling” yourself. Instead, you take responsibility to be visible to those who might benefit from your unique gifts and story.
This is how you sell without selling.
Here’s what true personal branding entails:
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Seriously, why do that? The question goes beyond surface-level motivations and delves into the heart of personal branding and networking in the digital age.
There’s no denying that LinkedIn is flooded with a myriad of content – from marketing advices to humblebrags about professional achievements & announcements of new business ventures. It can sometimes feel like a never-ending loop of repetitive posts. Why bother?
The reason to post on LinkedIn should go far beyond merely adding to the noise and posting for the sake of posting. It’s about recognizing the true potential of our online presence & the impact it can have on others.
Don’t just post to join the ‘I’ve-posted’ club. Post to make a difference. By sharing your real stories, thoughts, expertise, and reflections, you can contribute to meaningful conversations & push the boundaries of conventional thinking. In this interconnected world, your ideas have the potential to spark collaboration and drive positive change.
Post because your voice matters. In the vast digital space of LinkedIn, there are people who are hungry for your knowledge, insights, and inspiration. Your unique perspective and experiences can resonate with someone seeking guidance or validation. Your words might encourage them to take a leap in their career or pursue their passion.
I post on LinkedIn to share my expertise – to help others improve their personal branding, communication skills, and overall professional growth to maximize their potential.
I post on LinkedIn to inspire and motivate: LinkedIn is not just a place for showcasing accomplishments; it’s an opportunity to inspire others through my journey. I hope my experiences encourage others to pursue their dreams.
I post on LinkedIn to connect, network, and meet amazing people worldwide.
I post on LinkedIn to establish thought leadership and sell without selling: Being active on LinkedIn allows me to establish myself as a thought leader in personal branding and NLP. By consistently providing valuable content, I position myself as a go-to resource for individuals and companies seeking guidance in these areas.
I post on LinkedIn to reflect and embrace authenticity: Through my posts, I get to know and accept myself the way I am. Posting helps me discover new ways to see the subject, see metaphors in real life and constantly step outside my comfort zone.
The social media landscape might often seem monotonous, but remember – there’s always room for authenticity, fresh perspectives, thought-provoking insights, and real-life stories.
Now, I’m curious to hear from you! Do you post or scroll on LinkedIn?
If you post, what motivates you to share your thoughts and expertise? And if you don’t post, what is stopping you?
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
Meeting incredible, talented, and passionate entrepreneurs driven by a grand vision who have already achieved remarkable results and built strong physical brands truly excites me about my job. But even more, I love shifting the paradigm.
Personal branding is not a vanity fair reserved for politicians or wannabe influencers.
In today’s digital age, it is an indispensable business tool that should be acknowledged and used strategically. A strong personal brand has become a non-negotiable factor for success in today’s competitive landscape.
However, busy business owners and CEOs often lack the understanding of the essence of personal branding and the time, expertise, and resources to focus on enhancing their digital presence. As a result, more often than not, the most successful “traditional” entrepreneurs, who have real-life business experience and incredible stories, are almost invisible online.
But here’s the exciting part – aligning their digital presence with personal brilliance and being visible to the right audience can truly MAXIMIZE their impact.
A strong digital personal brand is not about becoming a social media star with hundreds of thousands of followers. In the professional world, it’s about strategic positioning and ensuring your target audience is in your zone of influence- in your online network. In my work, I focus on smart positioning, highlighting the strengths and expertise to the right audience who will value and appreciate my client’s personality and business vision.
Today, I had one such inspiring meeting, and I can’t wait to witness this outstanding business leader creating a digital impact that matches his outstanding achievements.
Tags: Marketing, Personal Branding, Sales
I recently stumbled upon a thought-provoking post by a young, bold, ambitious, and unapologetic influencer with a massive following who shared her experiences of facing criticism from “real” professionals. She highlighted the paradox between individuals constantly seeking knowledge and earning credentials yet failing to take decisive action, monetize their expertise and earn actual money. Her message -“While you doubt yourself and criticize me, I make millions, and you don’t” was arrogant yet to the point.
In a society where ways to make yourself visible and reach your potential clients are abundant, and expertise can be self-proclaimed, it’s easy to lose sight of true professionalism and expertise. And it’s not the client’s job to understand who is a real professional and who is not. It is our job and responsibility as professionals to make sure that people, who can benefit from our knowledge and expertise, can find their way to us. And yes, that means being strategic about your personal brand and being visible to the right audience. Your audience.
Self-doubt is a natural human emotion experienced by the most accomplished professionals. But what if instead of viewing self-doubt as a limitation, we reframed it as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth? By acknowledging and embracing self-doubt, we can use it as a catalyst for action, learning, improvement, and achieving tangible results.
Rather than allowing self-doubt to paralyze us, let’s use it as motivation to remove masks hiding our authenticity, tame our inner dragons, step outside our comfort zones, and get out there for the people who need us. Taking action, trying new things, and embracing the possibility of failure and failing numerous times are crucial steps toward that.
This influencer’s unapologetic attitude stems from her unwavering belief in herself, her mission, and her ability to disregard others’ opinions. It reminded me of the importance of staying true to ourselves and focusing on our why, our goals, strengths, and capabilities.
Breaking free from external validation can help unleash our full potential.
But so can a simple change in our mindset:
What if we made it less about ourselves and our insecurities and more about the impact that only we can make on somebody’s lives?
Tags: Coaching, Personal Branding, Sales
Last year I spoke at the Meelerahu Konverents (Peace of Mind Conference), organized by the largest Estonian conference organizer Äripäev. My presentation was about attitude and state management and their importance in our daily lives.
I often see “being busy” as equal to being productive. We are trying to learn new time-management hacks to cope with our never-ending to-do list. And at the same time, we ran most of our time on autopilot, reacting unconsciously to outside triggers instead of choosing how to respond consciously.
Numerous types of research show, though, that high performance is directly related to our energy levels (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual) and our state of mind. For example, global research by the Transformational Leadership Institute found that 94% of the leaders performing consistently high reported being in 1 of 3 mental states most of the time- Calm, Happy, or Energized. In the optimized state of mind we are able to see more choices and make better quality choices. As founder of NLP, John Grinder says: “Problem is never the problem itself. Problem is the state, in which you approach the context of the problem.” This idea has profoundly changed my own life as well as my approach to team and 1:1 coaching.
But how do you change your state of mind?
The good news is that you can change your state very quickly, and it doesn’t require years of practice or hours of meditation. It does require, though, an attitude that you focus on the things that you can control and pay attention to how you react. Noticing and switching off the autopilot gives you a choice.
And NLP provides a very simple yet effective formula. By changing your breathing to a conscious-paced one, you immediately change your psychology, which positively affects your state and results in higher performance (not to mention well-being). I
During my presentation, I shared 3 very effective techniques to quickly change your state:
My favorite one is a fake smile with the help of a pen. I know it looks pretty stupid, but it works wonders, I promise:) Just try it out! You will almost immediately notice that holding a pen between your teeth slows down your breathing, which changes your psychology and gets you into an optimal state.
It is also important that we create daily rituals to restore our resources of all 4 energy types, which is a secret of all high-performing athletes and one of the most ignored things in the business world.
Tags: Marketing, Sales, Social
I will do this when…
I finish this course…
I get those credentials…
I get this diploma…
Ever thought like this while putting off something you know you want to do and it could help you and your clients?
How many more courses are enough?
How many more diplomas must I hang on my wall to feel I’m enough, that I’m ready?
To embrace who I am and start sharing my unique gifts with the world?
Those were the questions I asked myself a couple of years ago when I realized I once again procrastinated on a very important project. No matter how much I learned & practiced, I continued to doubt myself. What I experienced was an infamous imposter syndrome.
Every day I see exceptional talented professionals haunted by the same fears, doubting their own accomplishments and fearing that others will “find out” that they’re not as competent as they think. The fascinating paradox about the Imposter syndrome is that it mainly affects people who know the most about their subject and industry. The more we know, the more we realize how much we still don’t know. Unfortunately, Imposter syndrome not only makes us miserable but can be a major roadblock to developing a strong personal brand.
So, how can you overcome Imposter Syndrome and let your personal brand shine?
Here are a few actionable steps:
Look for patterns in your behavior, such as self-doubt, downplaying your achievements, or attributing your success to luck.
Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses. Embrace your unique skills and talents, and accept that you’re not perfect. Nobody is! This is a crucial step in overcoming imposter syndrome ( and building an authentic personal brand )
When you hear that inner voice telling you’re not good enough, stop and analyze it.
Remind yourself of your accomplishments and be proud of yourself. Don’t hesitate to share your successes with your network. This not only helps you build credibility but also boosts your self-confidence.
Reach out to mentors, coaches, colleagues, or friends who can provide guidance and encouragement. They’ll often help you see your achievements in a new light and offer valuable perspectives.
Continuously invest in your personal and professional growth. This will increase your self-confidence and add value to your personal brand.
Choose to show up today and share what you have learned so far. Believe me, it’s a lot!
Every time I’m about to get to a new level, I get hit by the same self-doubt yet again. But now, I choose to acknowledge it, but I don’t let it stop me from taking small steps I can take today.
Have you experienced Imposter Syndrome?
Tags: Sales, Personal Branding, Coaching
Chat GPT has become one of the top conversations all over the place. I was even discussing this subject with my Spanish tutor the other day:) The overall excitement about this subject got me thinking of what this trend’s rising popularity means for personal branding. We even had a long conversation about this with the most popular kid on the block – Mr. Chat GPT himself:)
So let me share my thoughts and Mr. Chat GPT’s opinion.
Chat GPT is a tool. And as with every tool, it can be a helpful assistant or a dangerous one. It all comes down to the way you use it. And whether or not you know how to use it properly.
It is incredibly efficient for brainstorming ideas and finding new angles, analyzing your competition, and finding your USP.
It is excellent as part of the copywriting process, be it putting your chaotic thoughts into a structured post, improving your copy, or coming up with catchy headlines.
Undoubtedly, it can save professionals a lot of time, hence increasing popularity.
The number of ways to use this technology is mindblowing, and this is just the beginning.
Technology continues to evolve as we speak and becomes more and more sophisticated, new opportunities emerge, and the world will definitely never be the same.
BUT! AI needs YOUR knowledge of the subject, expertise, and critical thinking to be truly useful. It is a great supporting tool, not a replacement for your creativity and individuality, and should be regarded as such.
In terms of personal branding, it is one of the most critical threats that people who don’t know anything about the subject start building their personal brands, posting articles, and publishing books written by AI and claiming them to be their own. Not only is this unethical, but it can also be very damaging once it turns out that the person has zero knowledge of the given subject.
In the words of Mr. Chat GPT himself: “it’s important to note that while ChatGPT can provide valuable assistance with personal branding, ultimately it’s up to individuals to develop their own unique voice and message in order to stand out in a crowded digital landscape. Authenticity is a crucial aspect of personal branding, and it is important to ensure that any use of ChatGPT or other tools does not compromise this authenticity. While ChatGPT can assist with generating content and analyzing online presence, it’s ultimately up to the individual to ensure that their personal brand is a genuine reflection of who they are and what they stand for.
Additionally, individuals should be transparent about their use of ChatGPT or any other AI or automation tools in their personal branding efforts. Being upfront about the use of technology can help build trust with audiences and ensure that the personal brand is perceived as genuine and trustworthy.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?
p.s. This post is 100% human-generated, apart from the citation from ChatGPT:)
Tags: Social, Personal Branding, Coaching
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of conducting another training session on personal branding, and one participant shared on social media after the training – “Knowledge is power. Thank you for the excellent training and many tips. “
This positive comment struck a chord with me, as I see how many people absorb the knowledge and don’t do (almost) anything with it. Only those applying at least one piece of information move forward.
Knowledge is not power; it’s just potential. The application of Knowledge is the real power.
This subtle difference in the wording highlights a common issue many of us face: the inability to apply what we’ve learned.
Based on my personal experiences and working with different people, perfectionism is one of the reasons that often holds us back from putting knowledge straight into action.
Perfectionism is considered a positive trait in our society and is believed to increase your chances of success. But as Brené Brown says, “Perfectionism is not the same thing as striving to be your best. Perfection is not about healthy achievement and growth.” Instead, we use it as a shield to hide our fears, and more often than not, it leads to self-defeating thoughts and behaviors that make it harder to achieve goals.
Perfectionism traps us in a cycle of inaction. We hesitate to put our knowledge into action out of fear of not doing it “perfectly” and continue polishing things without ever taking action steps. This fear of failure or judgment can be paralyzing, leaving us stuck and unable to grow and move on.
I know. I have been there myself. As a recovering perfectionist, I made it my mantra at some point-“Better done than perfect.” I know, that if I had continued pursuing my “perfectionist journey, I wouldn’t have come this far.
“There is no failure, only feedback, and learning” is one of the core principles of NLP- the study of excellence and, in my opinion much healthier and fun way to realize your full potential.
Taking baby steps, failing, learning, growing, and improving with every action can be and should be a productive and enjoyable process.
“We love mistakes” is written on the wall in my son’s school, which is a great message, and I sure believe that the more mistakes we make, the quicker we learn and the further we go.
What is your relationship with your inner perfectionist?
p.s. market research:) I have been thinking about putting together a training, “Taming your Perfectionist,” so let me know if this thought resonates:)
Tags: Social, Sales, Personal Branding
Another day of video shooting is done! It has already been 3 years since I’ve been creating video content for LinkedIn & I am writing this post to celebrate my consistency and progress and share some lessons & takeaways from this personal journey.
Video creation (like all things:) gets easier the more you practice
No, you will not run out of topics as new questions and new angles emerge all the time
Yes, you are going to start loving it at soon point, sooner or later
Your message and a way to answer questions will become more concentrated and clear, resulting in shorter videos. I managed to make all of my new videos in under 1 minute.
Yes, LinkedIn algorithm and people love video & you will get more views and more shares
Most popular videos are” x steps/ways how-to” with a clear to-do checklist
Yes, you are going to get used to seeing & hearing you on camera
I find video format the best to create consistency and use it with many clients to save time. It took us around 3 hours to film all the last videos & I will have video content for several months
Subtitles are a must, as most people watch videos on their phones without sound
Best format I’ve found for myself so far is one question and one clear answer
Video is second best after face-to-face interaction to help people to get to know you
Use questions that people ask you to generate new ideas for your videos
I keep flexibility and relevance by choosing the videos I will post depending on my current priorities and ideas and often write posts to compliment the videos or expand on the topic
Video content creation is a journey, not a destination
No, you don’t necessarily need high-quality production, as mobile phones are more than capable of doing an excellent job. You need a good phone, good light, and good (varying) background. I work with Kert Kruusakivi, because my videos serve as an example for our customers and have to be of high-quality and also editing part is not one of my favorites
Don’t use the same background in your videos, as people will not understand whether this is a new video or an old one:) for the same reason, change your outfit.
No, you don’t have to worry about negative comments ( at least not on LinkedIn)
Don’t wait till you get it all perfect, start and you will get better and better
Video format and live streaming are future trends, so if you haven’t started experimenting with video, do it now.
Tags: Marketing, Public Relations, Personal Branding
Contributing to the overall conversation is critical to building a powerful personal brand. You can only become a thought leader if you share your thoughts, right?
But what if you’re struggling to create original content at the pace you had hoped? Here is a simple yet very effective solution-embrace the power of content curation. Share articles, podcasts, or videos that resonate with you and provide value to your audience.
By curating relevant content, you demonstrate your expertise, broaden your knowledge, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. It also allows you to foster meaningful connections and engage in conversations with other opinion leaders.
Here are a few things to ask yourself before hitting the share button:
1. Does it align with my personal brand and expertise?
Does the curated content relate to your niche and the topics you typically discuss? Ensure that it reinforces your personal brand and shows your knowledge and expertise.
2. Is it valuable and relevant to my audience?
Evaluate whether the curated content provides value to your target audience. Will it educate, entertain, or inspire them? Consider their interests, pain points, and aspirations when sharing content.
3. Does it reflect my unique perspective?
Don’t simply share the content as-is for the sake of sharing. Instead, add value by providing context and your perspective. Explain why you find it relevant, write a short summary and highlight the main key takeaways. Relate it to your personal experiences. This personal touch adds to your unique viewpoint and enhances the value of the curated content.
Remember, each piece you share should reflect your personal brand, showcasing your expertise and viewpoint.
Tags: Business Strategy, Personal Branding, Coaching