The discussion around personal branding seems to be one that happens a lot.

It used to be we’d get jobs, we’d grow our careers, maybe we’d work for two or three companies, then we’d retire.

Now we have to worry about our personal brands, just in case we decide to get a new job or start a business or, heck, change careers.

But why do you need to have a personal brand?

Is it to grow a business? Get a book deal? Get paid to speak? Get noticed for that big job you want? Get your first job out of school?

Whatever it is (and it works for all of these things), know what you’re setting out to do before you start. (more…)