There’s been much discussion lately about promoting your personal brand, but I don’t think people are really listening. And I think I know why. It’s hard work and most people only think about it when they need a new job. Unfortunately, it’s too late if you wait until you start your job search. The best personal brand management and brand promotion happens when you aren’t looking for a job. It’s what you do everyday on the job.

So what is your reputation at work? Stop and pay attention to what your personal brand says about you. Most of the time, it’s the simple things that will increase the value of your personal brand. Be pleasant to work with. Show up to meetings on time and be prepared to participate. Dress a level above your position. Help out your co-workers. These little things make a difference and leave a good impression. It’s the small things that demonstrate you can handle your current position and are ready for the next challenge. Don’t believe me? 

Think about who you connect with when you are on a job hunt. You network with former colleagues. You reach out to friends. These are the folks who’ve been watching you for the past year and if you managed your personal brand (aka your reputation) they will gladly offer to write you a recommendation on LinkedIn, promote you to HR for that new job opening, or simply help you network to new connections that will expand your job search.

So be smart and start thinking about managing your personal brand today so that it’s ready for you when you need it.