THE POWER OF LINKEDIN PERSONAL BRANDING FOR FINANCE PROFESSIONALS
When we talk about professional development, personal branding is usually connected with industries that rely on extensive networking, like sales.
However, the significance of personal branding is equally important for finance professionals, even though it may not be as encouraged. In a changing world where a social media presence can unlock so many opportunities, as well as provide you with professional legitimacy, personal branding is relevant to any professional – but especially finance professionals.
Why? Keep reading.
WHY YOU SHOULD BUILD A PERSONAL BRAND
IT ESTABLISHES CREDIBILITY
Personal branding allows you to showcase your expertise and experience.
Many people would associate this purely with those working in practice. And it’s true, a well-thought-out personal brand can instil trust in prospective clients… but it doesn’t stop there.
If you’re an industry professional who is looking to progress into higher roles and stand out in innovative companies, settling for the traditional CV application process may make this harder. More than ever employers and recruiters are using LinkedIn to find top talent; and where most are just listing their experience, establishing a consistent, relevant personal brand, not only will make it easier for the right people to find you, but you’ll also make a lasting impression before even entering the first interview.
A faceless, inactive LinkedIn doesn’t build much confidence for any employer, but one that is using their platform to show their passion for the finance industry is highly valued.
IT GIVES YOU NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Building a personal brand opens doors to networking opportunities. Connecting with like-minded professionals not only expands your network but also provides avenues for shared insights and recommendations to companies.
Believe it or not, the finance industry thrives on relationships and prioritising networking is a vital aspect of career growth.
IT PROVIDES YOU WITH THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
A CV can only say so much about a person, and it often takes 2, sometimes 3 interviews for an employer to gauge the knowledge you have, and how passionate you are about the finance and accounting industry.
But with a personal brand on LinkedIn, it’s pretty obvious from the get-go.
Not only are you displaying your commitment and passion, but with the right content, you’re displaying thought leadership and wisdom. This will not just attract employers directly, but build your network with other thought leaders who have plenty of connections and can direct you to some great opportunities.
YOU’LL GAIN INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
LinkedIn is a perfect place to stay on top of relevant trends in the finance industry, but if you’re not using it correctly, it can be difficult to get in those spaces and make connections with the people talking about it.
Similar to the previous point about credibility, if you want to be in those conversations, and receive insight from other professionals, a personal brand will highlight you as someone worth reaching out to.
YOU’LL HAVE AWARENESS OF INDUSTRY EVENTS
Events, seminars and conferences are a perfect way to gain wisdom, meet new people and put yourself out there as a reliable finance professional. But how would you know about them if you’re not connected to those who are attending/ hosting?
Use personal branding to your advantage and stay informed about upcoming events… maybe even get personally invited to some due to your thought leadership.
HOW TO BUILD YOUR PERSONAL BRAND
So now you know the benefits, how can you practically implement them?
TESTIMONIALS & REFERRALS
Actively seek client feedback and reviews. Testimonials are a solid, long-lasting way of building a personal brand by showcasing your character and ability to deliver results.
EDUCATIONAL CONTENT
Share your knowledge through educational content. Whether it's
Blog posts
Infographics
Market updates
Advice on progression
Providing valuable and relevant insights will position you as a valuable and relevant professional.
- Written by Will Roberts & Tommy Pritchard
NEED SOME FRIENDLY ADVICE OR MORE TIPS?
If you are looking for more advice or help finding your next job, we can help, please give us a call on: 0117 301 8495 or take a look at our jobs page. Alternatively, if you’re an employer in the UK looking to recruit and need someone with real recruiting expertise then we can help – let’s chat.