My First Article Publication in Spanish: How to Create your Image and Personal Brand - Part 1 of 4

I recently had my first publication in Spanish! It was exciting and certainly a dream come true! Viva Polk magazine called and wanted a series of four articles that would solely focus on personal branding and image. The first article, Part 1 of 4, focused on "How to Create your Image and Personal Brand."

I normally open personal branding workshops with this statement:

"If you don't take time to create your image and personal brand, other people will define it for you."

I also ask the audience: "What do you want other people to say when you leave the room?"

We all have the opportunity to create our own image. When we speak about image, we are referring to wardrobe, communication style, and mannerisms. As a result, image is not only related to education, title, or years of work experience. Promotions and career advancement opportunities are not only offered to people that are highly educated or skilled but also to those that have an effective and well-defined image and personal brand.

The goal is to have a positive image brand because you may only have one chance and when it comes to first impressions, people will make an opinion of you within 30 seconds of meeting you. Scary right?

Often clients ask what they can do to begin creating and defining a successful personal brand. As a result, I have list of three items that will help you start the process:

1. Make a list of people you admire in your community, professional network or media

2. Define your personal style and fashion preferences

3. Describe your personality and unique traits

This is the first step to start building a brand that is unique to your personality and personal traits.

In Part 2 through 4 of the article series, I will discuss "Inventory and Closet Management," "How to choose items for your Capsule Wardrobe," and "Essential Accessories." To view the actual magazine article, go to: Viva Polk Edición 12 magazine.