I believe that one of the most asked questions for us designers (including myself) is: what can I do to win new customers? Developing your Personal Brand is a way to open yourself to possibilities of generating new contacts and business opportunities.

Van Gogh, considered a painting genius, died in poverty at age 37, having sold only one painting in his lifetime. He said: "I cannot change the fact that my paintings don't sell. But the time will come when people will recognize that they are worth more than the value of the paints used in the picture." Unlike him, you don't need to kick the bucket to have you and your work recognized.

What is Personal Branding?

Personal Branding, roughly speaking, is attaching your name and image to who you are professionally, in order to sell products and services you or another company provide. It is a professional self-promotion tool, which can be used in different ways.

Gisele Bündchen, brazilian uber-model, is an example of a person who works her Personal Brand to achieve her goals. She has her name attached to what she (modelling), brings her A game and is recognized for it. Consequently, she is on the radar within and out of her industry.

Why should I build my personal brand?

The answer is simple: to let the outside world know who you are, what you do and what you do best - or better.

Building your personal brand is an act of reflection on your career. You will be required to see where you are, where you want to go or should go, check your skills, and discover what makes you unique, among other things. It helps discovering what you want to advertise or promote about yourself. With it you can leverage and enhance your career to new heights.

How can Joomla help me develop my personal brand?

• You can create your online portifolio in Joomla to easily show your prospects your works, wherever they are. 
• If you sell a product, you can put up an e-commerce with Joomla to promote and sell it. 
• You can create a blog to let people know your thoughts and knowledge on design. 

These are just a few suggestions. Once you put your mind to it, you may find new ways to develop your personal brand.

Joomla is here to help you take the first steps.