How to Build an Attractive Personal Brand

Errica Blount
2 days ago
2 min read

Today, on and off the field, your personal brand is your power. It’s how all external stakeholders see you-this means coaches, recruiters, NIL partners, teams, and even future employers. A strong personal brand doesn’t just display your skills but spells out your morals, your mentality, and, most importantly, your story. Whether you’re a high school, college, professional athlete, or maybe even retired, here’s how to build a personal brand that is not only appealing but memorable.

1. Define Who You Are Before Anyone Else Does

Every great brand begins with transparency. Think about your core values, how they guide your behavior, what story you tell, and what makes you stand out. Your personal brand should reflect authenticity, not just your talents. The clearer you are, the clearer your audience will be.

2. Get Consistent With Your Message

Brands are built through repetition; your audience should know what to expect when they hear your name or see your content. Select 3–5 brand themes/core values that you want to be recognized for. Examples include discipline, leadership, wellness, work ethic, faith, and community impact, among others. Then, ensure that all of your content is connected to your themes.

3. Show Up on the Right Platforms

You can’t be everywhere all at once, but being present where it matters is key. Research online social platforms and hone in on which ones will best serve your brand and audience. For example:

Instagram: Behind the scenes reels, training tips, lifestyle hacks, NIL visuals
LinkedIn: Professional identity, academic journey, career goals
TikTok: Day-in-the-life, motivational, and training videos
X/Twitter: Quick thoughts, athlete insights, commentary, quotes, etc.

Your online presence should reflect your actual identity, maintaining the brand's authenticity, deliberate approach, and alignment with your goals.

4. Share the Story Behind the Scenes

People connect with humans, not jerseys. Your personal brand grows stronger when you:

Share life lessons you've learned
Talk about downfalls and comebacks
Display the preparation, not just the highlights
Explain what motivates you

This type of transparency makes your journey not only relatable but also appealing.

5. Protect Your Reputation

A solid brand demands solid boundaries. Before posting, consider whether your content aligns with your core values and how it would be perceived by external stakeholders. Remember, you are the CEO of you. Treat your brand accordingly.

6. Add Value to Your Audience

Brands that get the most engagement aren’t just inspiring; they’re also meaningful. Think about what you can offer. Think about how what you offer can change a life. When people know they can learn from you, they’ll return again and again.

7. Stay Professional

From answering DMs to meeting with coaches and brands, professionalism is what sets you apart. Be courteous, punctual, and clear. Your brand isn’t just optic; it’s developmental.

8. Evolve as You Grow

Your brand should never be stagnant. As you mature as an athlete and person, your brand will evolve accordingly. Update photos, change your message, and polish your content. Staying static is the easiest way to lose relevance.

All in all, an attractive personal brand isn’t about perfectionism but rather intentionality. It’s about being aware of who you are, who you want to become, and continually showing up exactly that way.