When people hear your name what is their reaction.  From positive to negative and everything in between, even lack of awareness is your personal brand.

Whether you are well known (e.g., the prime minister of Canada) or lesser known their are people that know you and react to your name.

That’s Not my Name

Of course more t(an one person might have your name and this can be confusing to your brand identity.  In most cases both the name and context link peoples reactions to the correct brand.

My namesake, Stephen Kerr is well known and very accomplished basket ball player and coach.  He has a well established personal brand through social media, press, sports fans, etc.

When people are referring to me it is always clear from the context that it’s not about the basketball player.  The reaction is about my brand identity even if it is a “ I don’t know him”

Your Personal Brand can become Viral

Even people who don’t know you but know of you can react to your brand.  For example, “Steve Kerr, I have heard he is meticulous”.  This person might not have met you personally or even ever interacted with you.

Your brand reputation spreads like wild fire.  This highlights how critical it is to ensure those you interact with directly and indirectly are getting the message you desire them to have.

That is, own your brand.  Treat it like the most important thing about you.  Don’t let others sully you.  This means be of good character at all times.  Your personal brand is always on display.