Apple. Nike. Coca-Cola. Disney. Kenneth Kam. (Insert your name.)
What do we all have in common?
We are all brands.
I know it can seem strange to think of yourself in the same context. After all, you’re a person, not a product. But whether you’re a fresh college graduate or a global CEO, you definitely have a brand to uphold. It’s not a choice but a given. Constantly evolving, your brand is a combination of your image and reputation. It’s also a promise, and what others expect of you.
And the earlier one recognises this, the better. I believe investing in your own brand can be the best investment one can make, substantially paying off dividends in your career and life at the same time.
Needless to say, you certainly want your brand to positively reflect who you are, what you stand for and what you’re capable of. But, how do you achieve that? How can you establish and create something that seems so intangible and subjective?
The following are some of my thoughts pertaining to branding, which perhaps can be useful for your brand as well.
At the heart of it all, the Kenneth Kam brand and Kenneth Kam himself are interdependent.
Most people know me as a Forex trader, and trading will always remain a core aspect of the Kenneth Kam brand. However, my brand extends far beyond the trading desk, delving into diverse areas such as fashion, travel, art and appreciation for the finer things in life. I believe striking a harmonious work-life balance simultaneously enriches both my brand and my life; much like a music celebrity who develops his own fashion line while never straying far from his main profession.
Personal branding also keeps me on track towards my goals. One day, I aim to become the ‘Pension Fund for the World’. In order to achieve that, I will need to constantly and consistently pay attention to the language in my mind, my words and my actions so that they are in sync with my goals. By doing this, I can determine the immediate and direct connection people make when they see, hear or think about Kenneth Kam. As Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos once said, “A brand is what people say about you when you’re not in the room.” Adventurous, quirky, reliable and knowledgeable, are some of the common labels associated with the Kenneth Kam brand. But what I wish for most is my brand to convey trust, integrity, value and honesty. And this inspires me to be my best every day.
The same can apply to your personal brand. It’s important to constantly evaluate your brand and make any necessary tweaks, adjustments and improvements. Branding is a fluid process, and there should always be room for continuous growth and change. Whether you’re searching for a job, starting your own business, or simply trying to build a positive reputation, branding is just as essential for your own professional identity as it is for a product.
Authored by Kenneth Kam
Produced by Callio Media