If you want to stay competitive in today’s business world, creating a strong personal brand and professional image can be the key to unlocking new opportunities in your career and towards your goals. Your personal brand and professional image are the combination of your reputation, your expertise, your network and your personality. These elements can work together to help you stand out in a crowded marketplace and open doors to new opportunities.

Here are some ways you can leverage your personal brand image to create new opportunities in business and the workplace:

1. Develop a clear personal brand statement: A personal brand statement is a brief statement that summarizes who you are, what you do and what makes you unique. It should be memorable and easy to understand. For example, “I’m a digital marketing expert who specializes in social media strategy for small businesses.” A clear personal brand statement can help you differentiate yourself from others in your field and create a strong first impression. Deliver that with a polished presentation, your already increasing your chance to close by 5,000% (at least)

Case Study: Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of VaynerMedia, has built a personal brand as a social media guru and entrepreneur. His personal brand statement is “Empowering Entrepreneurs to Chase Their Dreams.” (Not “fashionable” but clearly has a personal brand style complimentary to his professional goals)

2. Build a strong online presence: In today’s digital age, your online presence can be just as important as your in-person presence. Create a professional website or online portfolio that showcases your work, experience and accomplishments. Make sure your social media profiles are up-to-date and reflect your personal brand and why pay for a professional headshot if your not looking your professional best? Pictures speak, as do you when you are not talking.

Case Study: Rand Fishkin, founder of Moz and SparkToro built a strong online presence through his blog and social media presence. His personal brand is focused on marketing and SEO expertise. (has a clear brand image presentation, great headshot for linked in, complimentary to his professional goals)

3. Network strategically: Networking is crucial for building new business relationships and uncovering new opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in your field on LinkedIn. This is imperative when starting out, but should never be forgotten. Be strategic about who you network with and focus on building quality relationships. Utilize a powerful look that is inviting and encourages others to start conversations with you. (Great coat, it’s so soft! It’s cashmere, oh wow! Wait, what do you do?? -You take it form here.)

Case Study: Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post, is known for her extensive network of business leaders and influencers. She has leveraged her personal brand and network to create new opportunities and partnerships, and clearly has always maintained a strong personal brand image over the years that’s complimentary towards her professional goals.

4. Speak at conferences and events: Speaking at conferences and events can help you establish yourself as an expert in your field and reach a wider audience. Look for speaking opportunities at industry events or start by speaking at local business or networking events. Any excellent speaker, will tell you the power of looking good and feeling good. Look so confident that your posture improves, and you walk it like you talk it.

Case Study: Simon Sinek, author and motivational speaker, has built a personal brand around his message of “Start With Why.” He speaks at conferences and events around the world and has built a following of millions through his TED Talks and online videos. Again not your definition of fashionable, but has a thought out personal brand image, that’s yes, you guessed it; complimentary towards his goals.

5. Write thought leadership content: Writing thought leadership content such as blog posts, whitepapers, or e-books can help you establish yourself as an expert in your field and attract new business opportunities. Share your content on your website, social media, and industry publications to reach a wider audience. And if your going to be in the public eye, respect the publics eyes. It’s a service to make yourself more approachable, relatable and someone to inspire and aspire to be.

Case Study: Neil Patel, digital marketing expert and founder of Neil Patel Digital, has built a personal brand around his expertise in SEO and content marketing. He has written numerous blog posts and articles on these topics and has been featured in top industry publications. He has a signature smile and look. Find me a pic of his without that wonderful positive smile. This is an easy one that is complimentary towards anyone’s professional goals.

Creating a strong personal brand and professional image can open doors to new opportunities in business and the workplace. I know you know this, now stop fighting it, there is a solution. Start by following The Clothing Coach for more info and content, and book a call or visit our San Francisco Studio to learn more. By following the examples of successful professionals like the ones referenced (and many more) you can create a personal brand that sets you apart and helps you achieve your career goals. Good luck and always remember, It’s not the fashion, it’s the passion!