Why do some professionals struggle to build their personal brands on LinkedIn? Because they start with the wrong mindset.

They focus on themselves and their services. They use social media to promote themselves. They think ME ME ME. Look at me. Look how great I am. I’m a Super Lawyer! They sound boastful, not unique and sometimes even dry.

But that’s all wrong.

Have you ever been at a meeting, an interview or on a date and the person talked the whole time and you thought it went terrible and they thought you were amazing? It’s because it’s all about them and not about you.

Personal branding is NOT about you.

It’s about the people that you want to HELP.

You should actually never be boastful or sell yourself on LinkedIn. And if you’re really good at what you do you’ll never have to do that.

If you want to build a powerful personal online brand, ask yourself:

  • What can I do to HELP my connections on LinkedIn today?
  • What kind of content can I provide to them that will be useful?
  • How can I serve my audience?

The answers could be hiding in your network. Or in your inbox. Or maybe in your LinkedIn feed.

Here’s what I do – I give away free content, free tips and helpful advice. I never worry about giving away too much, and I never sell my services.

Take the time to THINK ABOUT OTHERS so they will take the time to NOTICE YOU.

Giving is the foundation upon which all business and personal relationships are built. Give without expecting anything in return as much as you can.

Find ways that you can help the people in your network and the new professionals you meet. Give then content that will help their lives. You may not get anything in return right away; but in the long term, that is how you will build your brand, network and business.