PERSONAL BRAND: Beyond the title: The reputation that follows you

Welcome to Personal Brand: Executive Perspective with Michelle Madziva, a weekly column dedicated to the art and strategy of personal branding.

Each week, we will go beyond the usual conversation about profiles, photographs and social media to explore what truly makes an individual memorable, credible and influential in their area of expertise. From reputation and executive presence to visibility, leadership, communication and the value attached to a name.

Whether you are an executive, entrepreneur, professional or public leader, this is a space to examine how you are perceived by the outside world and most importantly, what you are deliberately building around your name.Your name is more than an introduction,it carries more weight than you can ever imagine.. In a world where perception increasingly shapes opportunities, your personal brand deserves to be built with the same intention you bring to your ministry,your organisation, your career and your leadership.

Last week, we explored the difference between authority and influence. A title may give you authority, but it is your reputation that determines the confidence people place in you.This week, I want to take that conversation further.

What remains when the title changes?

CEOs are appointed and replaced, Ministers change portfolios, directors move organisations,careers evolve but your name travels with you through all these changes.That is why it is fundamental to deliberately build a strong personal brand. Build a reputation around your expertise, character, values and the value you consistently bring even without the title.

The Bible gives us a powerful example in David. Before he became king, he was already known for his qualities. When Saul was looking for someone to serve him, one of his servants described David by saying:

“I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine looking man. And the Lord is with him.”

— 1 Samuel 16:18

David did not yet have the crown, but his qualities had already become part of his reputation.His position came later but his reputation came first. There is an important lesson here for today’s leaders. Your title tells people where you are in the corporate world but your reputation tells them why they can trust you.

A CV can list your qualifications, experience,appointments and achievements but a personal brand answers a more valuable question which is: What do people associate your name with?** **

At Grand Curations, I often ask leaders: **When your name is mentioned in a room you are not in, what do you want people to say about you? **Does your leadership, communication and everyday conduct give them enough evidence to say it? Always remember that, titles can introduce you but reputation makes you memorable.

One day, the title will change and your name will remain.Build a personal brand strong enough to outlive the position and attract opportunities just by the mere mention of your greatest asset which is your name.

Michelle Madziva** **Founder & CEO, Grand Curations

Corporate Strategist | Personal Branding Consultant

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