Building a Personal SWOT Analysis

Building a Personal SWOT Analysis getting to the heart of your brand.

Before you can build a brand, albeit a personal brand you need to know what you stand for, represent and the perceptions associated with your name and actions. Before you can do any of this you need an objective view of your strengths and weaknesses.  Think of this as a personal SWOT analysis that could get uncomfortable if you are not ready for objectivity and the truth.  Objectivity is the key word here; ask peers, team members, friends, family and your boss a set of simple questions listed below.

·         Where do I shine, what are my core strengths?

·         What leadership skills do you think are strengths for me?

·         What behavior do I exhibit that could significantly impact my career negatively or lead me to fail if it’s not addressed?

·         What is the one skill or ability that if I mastered, would have the most significant impact on my personal effectiveness with our relationship and/ or organization?

·         What abilities of mine have the most significant impact on you and why?

It is often difficult to listen to the constructive elements if you are not prepared.  Remember this is to build a foundation for your brand both personally and professionally. When seeking clarity on responses make it clear that you’re seeking self-improvement. Tell your friends and peers honestly that you are open to constructive feedback, because there is no way you can address a behavior if you do not know about it.  

Try it out and turn those insights into action. In the context of the Start/ Stop/ Continue feedback framework draft a short list based on the answers to the questions.