Personal Branding Across Cultures Blogathon
Personal branding is now on the world stage. Initially a ‘western’ concept, it is fair to say that the need to brand oneself is a global phenomenon. Even in cultures where standing out is not the norm, we can see people embracing the value of identifying one’s uniqueness and proactively communicating this promise of value …
A ‘Diary’ Culture and Blogging
Japanese may have been slower at embracing social media platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn, but they quickly jumped on board to blogging when it became popular back in 2002. Since then, Japanese has slightly edged out English in being the dominant language of the blogosphere. Pretty amazing considering that English speakers worldwide outnumber Japanese …
Grow Your Personal Brand by Coworking
So you have decided to part ways with the 9 to 5 lifestyle and venture out on your own. You are now your own boss and living your dream of being an entrepreneur. You set up shop in your home and relish the fact that you can avoid the rush hour madness every morning.
Ah, …
3 Lessons in Branding from ‘Harajuku Girls’
Gwen Stefani’s song ‘Harajuku Girls’ reminds me of a place in Japan where standing out is the norm, at least every Sunday!
“Harajuku girls. I’m looking at you girls. You’re so original girls. You got the look that makes you stand out”
Located in Tokyo, Harajuku is a place where every Sunday teens dress up …
What Cycling Culture can Teach us About Personal Branding
I am an avid cyclist and even my own personal branding work combines cycling imagery with branding strategy.
I often say that being your brand is “just like riding a bike” – once you believe in your brand you are inspired to take action and train to become your brand. Like riding a bike, becoming …
3 Tips to Avoid Being a ‘Job Title Commodity’
Picture this. You are at a networking event. Business cards in hand. Ready to make new contacts. How do you introduce yourself? What is your conversation starter? Like most people it’s probably this: “My name is… I’m a… (fill in the blank with your job title!)
We often fall into the trap of identifying ourselves …
Debunking Personal Brand Cultural Myths: Part 4
This is the final part of a 4-part series sharing ‘myths’ of personal branding. While these myths are typical within Japanese culture, they can easily be debunked in other cultures around the world as well. Make sure to also read about myth #1, “I have to give up my group identity,” myth #2, “Personal branding …
Debunking Personal Brand Cultural Myths: Part 3
This is part 3 of a monthly series where I am sharing ‘myths’ of personal branding. While these myths are typical within Japanese culture, they can easily be debunked in other cultures around the world as well. Make sure to also read about myth #1, “I have to give up my group identity” and myth …
Debunking Personal Brand Cultural Myths: Part 2
This is part 2 of a monthly series where I am sharing ‘myths’ of personal branding. While these myths are typical within Japanese culture, they can easily be debunked in other cultures around the world as well. Make sure to also read about myth #1, “I have to give up my group identity.“
Personal Branding…Debunking Personal Brand Cultural Myths: Part 1
Personal branding is relatively a new concept in many parts of the world. Many cultures feel it smacks of ‘western egoism’. As such, a big part of my job in Japan is to educate others about personal branding and the value it has for Japanese culture.
If you ask Japanese if they have heard of …