Welcome back to the HR Higher Version Podcast — the show dedicated to helping HR professionals unlock their leadership potential and build intentional, executive-level careers.
I’m Kristen Wade, your executive coach, and today we’re going to talk about one of the most powerful but often overlooked tools you have in your career toolbox: your personal brand.
If you missed last week’s episode, I announced a free 3-part leadership series to help HR pros like you break through career plateaus and build clear paths to executive roles.
At the end of this episode, I will give you the link to sign up. In part of that series, I will dive into Personal Branding. So let’s prime that discussion today.
Segment 1: What Is HR Personal Branding – Really?
Personal branding isn’t just a buzzword or a LinkedIn makeover. It’s about how you show up — consciously and consistently — in your work, your communications, and your relationships.
Think of your personal brand as your professional reputation and the unique value you bring to your organization. It answers this question:
“Why should someone choose you as a leader?”
For HR professionals, a strong personal brand can mean the difference between being a behind-the-scenes doer and being recognized as a trusted, influential leader.
Segment 2: Why Personal Branding Matters More Than Ever
The HR field is evolving rapidly. More than ever, organizations are looking for HR leaders who don’t just manage processes but lead with vision and influence.
Here’s why your personal brand matters:
- It builds trust and credibility with senior leaders and key stakeholders.
- It helps you stand out in a competitive job market or internal promotion process.
- It creates opportunities — people want to work with, promote, and follow trusted leaders.
Without a clear personal brand, you risk blending into the crowd or being overlooked when leadership opportunities arise.
Segment 3: How to Start Building Your Personal Brand Today
Building a personal brand doesn’t mean you have to be flashy or self-promoting. It starts with clarity and intention. Here are three simple steps you can take right now:
- Define Your Leadership Values. What principles guide your decisions and how you lead?
- Be Consistent in How You Communicate. From emails to meetings, your tone and style should reflect your leadership brand.
- Build Visibility with Strategic Relationships. Connect with leaders and peers intentionally — share your ideas and offer support.
I’ll cover all of this and more in detail in the second webinar of the series, Mastering Your Personal Brand & Executive Presence.
Segment 4: How to Join the Webinar Series
Remember, this is part of the 3-part live leadership series I’m hosting to help HR professionals break through to executive leadership.
If you haven’t registered yet, you can find the link to register in the podcast show notes. Or you can simply go to my website at www.HRHigherVersion.com and download the free guide. You will be registered for the leadership series and also receive my free guide: 4 Ways HR Professionals Can Be More Strategic with Their Time and Move Toward an Executive Level Role as a thank you.
You won’t want to miss this leadership series – it’s free and virtual. But seats are limited to keep it interactive, so make sure to sign up today.
Attending this series will give you the practical tools and confidence to own your leadership journey.
