Have you ever wondered how others perceive you at work? Not just what you think of yourself, but the actual impression you leave on colleagues, managers, and clients?

Your self-image—the way you see yourself—doesn’t always match your external image—the way others see you. And when there’s a gap between the two, it can impact everything from collaboration to career growth.

Many professionals unknowingly project an image that holds them back. Maybe they believe they’re approachable, but others see them as distant. Or they see themselves as decisive, but others perceive them as rigid.

The good news? You have the power to shape your professional image.

By aligning your self-image with how others actually perceive you, you create a personal brand that works for you—not against you. Here’s how.

Step 1: Identify Your Blind Spots

We all have blind spots—aspects of our personality and behavior that we don’t notice, but others do. These blind spots shape how people interact with us and can influence workplace opportunities.

The problem? Most of us assume we’re coming across as we intend—until we receive feedback that tells a different story.

How to uncover your blind spots:

• Ask for feedback. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or trusted peers and ask, “How would you describe my strengths? How do I come across in meetings or collaborations?”
• Observe reactions. Pay attention to non-verbal cues in conversations. Do people seem engaged? Hesitant? Surprised by your input?
• Compare self-perception vs. external perception. Write down three words that describe how you see yourself at work. Then, ask others to describe you in three words. Do they match?

Without this awareness, you risk creating an unintentional personal brand—one that doesn’t reflect your actual strengths.

Step 2: Align Your Personal Brand with Your Self-Image

Once you understand how others perceive you, the next step is aligning that perception with who you truly are.

This doesn’t mean changing your personality to fit others’ expectations. It means ensuring that the way you communicate and present yourself accurately reflects your strengths and values.

Practical ways to strengthen your personal brand:

• Be intentional about your presence. If you want to be seen as approachable, engage in conversations. If you want to be recognized as a leader, speak with confidence and offer insights.
• Communicate your strengths. If you excel at problem-solving but people don’t recognize it, find ways to showcase this skill—whether in meetings, written communication, or mentoring others.
• Build consistency. Your personal brand isn’t shaped by a single interaction. It’s built over time through repeated behaviors, actions, and communication.

Aligning your self-perception with how you are actually seen creates trust and authenticity—two critical factors for career growth.

Step 3: Take Ownership of Your Narrative

If you don’t define your personal brand, others will define it for you.

And when that happens, you risk being misunderstood, overlooked, or undervalued.

To shape your professional image with intention:

1. Identify your core strengths. What do you want to be known for? Leadership? Innovation? Reliability?
2. Craft your personal brand message. How would you describe yourself in a way that highlights your expertise and values?
3. Demonstrate your brand daily. The way you communicate, solve problems, and interact with others should reinforce your personal brand.

Your reputation is built on consistent, authentic actions. By actively managing how others see you, you ensure that your personal brand reflects your true capabilities and career ambitions.

Step 4: Take Action to Strengthen Your Brand

Now that you have clarity on your strengths and perception, take small, intentional steps to align your external image with your professional goals.

Try this exercise:

1. Write down five words that describe the professional image you want to project.
2. Ask 5-10 colleagues how they would describe you.
3. Compare their responses to your ideal image. Where do they align? Where do they differ?
4. Choose one area to improve. If you want to be seen as a great listener, commit to asking open-ended questions in meetings. If you want to be known for strategic thinking, contribute more insights.
5. Track progress. Revisit feedback over time and refine your approach.

The better you understand and own your personal brand, the more control you have over your career trajectory.

Your Personal Brand is Your Competitive Advantage

Aligning your self-image with how others perceive you isn’t just about making a good impression—it’s about being seen for the value you truly bring.

When your strengths are recognized, opportunities naturally come your way. Promotions, leadership roles, and collaborations become easier to secure—not because you’re asking for them, but because people already associate you with excellence and credibility.

Ready to Build a Stronger Personal Brand?

If you want to take control of your professional image, refine your strengths, and position yourself for career success, check out my Personal Branding Workshop.

Your reputation is one of your most valuable career assets—make sure it’s working for you.