In these uncertain and unprecedented times when our economy is in upheaval and jobs are no longer secure, many professional women are looking for ways to safeguard their careers and financial security.

Rather than focusing on working harder or letting the anxiety take over, as a professional woman it’s critical to start thinking of yourself as a business rather than an employee. That means building your public profile and brand equity.

Having a strong executive brand 

Developing your executive brand and being able to communicate what you can offer future employers is key. 

Thinking of yourself and your career as a business can give you a greater sense of control over your future, helps you to safeguard your career and ensures you stay outwardly focused and competitive.

5 important steps to thinking like a business

1.  Identify where you want to go

What are your career goals? 

Being clear on your career goals helps you to identify the right opportunities and makes it easier to disregard those that don’t align with where you want to go.

2. Continually develop the product of you

To stay relevant it’s a good idea to have a clear view of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a solid understanding of industry trends. This way you can identify where you might need further education, skills or training so you are well placed for future opportunities.

3.  Be clear about what makes you unique and valuable to future employers

What is your value proposition? Can you clearly articulate why an employer should hire you over others in your field?  

4.   Know your target market

To position yourself correctly in the market, it’s important to know who your target market is and who the influencers are in your industry. If you’re looking for a new role then recruiters and decision-makers in your chosen field will become your target market. In other situations, it might be leaders at the next level of your organisation.

Once you know who your target market is, you can identify where they consume information and begin making connections.

5. Market the brand of you

A key component in marketing yourself is demonstrating your capabilities and experience. In sharing your knowledge you establish yourself as an authority and add to your professional value. Knowledge-sharing also leads to new career opportunities, broader networks and more recognition in your industry.