Getting Noticed To Get Ahead: The Power Of Personal Presence

Forbes

3 days ago

Stephanie Coughlan, Founder of Image Intelligence.
Standing out and telling your own unique story in today's world is often challenging. With shifting work patterns, hybrid teams and the blur between online and offline interactions, I believe how we present ourselves has never been more important.
The concept of personal branding has gained attention in recent years, with growing recognition of its role in shaping career growth and professional satisfaction. According to the European Research Studies Journal, "over 93% of surveyed managers said personal branding had a 'significant' or 'very significant' influence on achieving professional success." In my own experience, individuals who actively develop and communicate their personal brand can experience greater clarity in their professional direction and be perceived as more competent and confident in their roles.
The Importance Of Presence And Context
A strong personal brand can look different depending on the environment. Whether you work remotely and spend hours on Zoom calls, are presenting at a conference, are pitching an idea to a new client or are stepping onto a stage, your image is always speaking for you. It's conveyed through your body language, your tone of voice, the way you dress and how you show up—virtually or in person.
The key is to make sure it's saying what you want it to, in a way that aligns with your values, goals and personality. If you're in a creative startup, for example, your brand might lean into energy, originality and agility. If you work in a more traditional corporate environment, it may reflect a more polished and professional image. Either way, I've found that what truly matters is authenticity, consistency and confidence.
Here are a few practical details I've learned that are worth considering when it comes to showing up as your best self in professional interactions:
• A professional and uncluttered Zoom background can help reinforce your credibility during virtual meetings.
• A consistent photo and tone across your LinkedIn and professional bios can help others recognize and remember you.
• Wardrobe details, such as tailored clothing, polished shoes and thoughtful grooming, can subtly yet powerfully enhance impressions.
Why It Matters
Author Alison Kluger notes in her book Brand Up 2.0 that "we are saturated with people's judgment of us. So, if we don't control our narrative and present the way we need to, we'll either be neutral or invisible." In this context, personal branding becomes a way to take ownership of how you're perceived—not through reinvention but by sharpening what's already there.
During my 15 years at an iconic fashion magazine, showing up with intention—especially in terms of personal appearance—was essential and often intimidating. I realized my personal branding efforts were resonating when, at a high-profile event attended by fashion leaders and supermodels, a respected editor-in-chief complimented my look. It was a moment that confirmed I had succeeded in projecting a professional and confident image—one that felt authentic and aligned with how I wanted to be perceived.
Here are a few questions you can reflect on to help determine whether you are making space to evolve your brand or letting it take shape by default:
A strong online presence should mirror the same professionalism as your offline presence. Start with the basics: a clean and simple background, proper lighting and a camera positioned at eye level to maintain natural eye contact. It's important to appear clearly on-screen, with your full face visible and wearing a relaxed, approachable expression. Speak in a calm, steady manner to convey confidence and clarity. Keeping the camera on and avoiding distractions like drinking your coffee can further reinforce your professionalism. I've found that small but thoughtful details like these help ensure that digital interactions align with how you want to be perceived professionally.
Visual and verbal communication play a key role in shaping first impressions. Common mistakes include misunderstanding your industry's dress code and its subtleties, wearing clothing that doesn't suit your body shape, or choosing silhouettes and colors that distract rather than support a confident presence. Overlooking the importance of grooming and hygiene can also quietly undermine the image you intend to project.
To make sure your message is coming across the way you intend, both visually and verbally, focus on four key areas: appearance, interactions, grooming and hygiene, and communication. Make sure you dress in a way that suits both you and your role. A neat hairstyle, nails and well-maintained clothes all send a message that you're put-together and intentional. The way you interact with others should reflect the same level of thoughtfulness: being present and respectful and adapting your tone or approach depending on who you're speaking with.
And finally, your communication—whether it's in person, over email or even on social media—should align with how you want to be perceived. When all of these elements work together, you can create a consistent, confident impression that feels authentic and professional.
Final Thoughts
You don't have to reinvent yourself overnight. Creating a personal presence that is authentic to you is an ongoing process, shaped by small, consistent choices over time. What matters is clarity and intention. When these are in place, the impression you leave is more likely to support your goals.
Remember that whether online or in person, your presence is always speaking. Make sure it's saying what you want it to.
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