India’s Image Guru Dilip Cherian (Founder, Perfect Relations Ltd.) joined us at India International Centre to lead an LWL Workshop on building impeccable personal brands. He introduced us to the fundamentals on how we can curate a version of ourselves that communicates our strengths and skills effectively and solved the question of whether we really need to do it all digitally. 

Key Lessons & Learnings: 

1. Learn how to broadcast what you’re doing (make sure it’s meaningful) and do it twice a week.
   Pro Tip: You only need one hour every week to create thoughtful content. Don’t overthink it!

2. Rewrite what you write. Dilip does it 7 times before he gets to the final version. It’s as much about pruning as it is about what goes into the post. 

Pro Tip: Write before you type! Pen to paper to screen helps you filter out the noise.

3. When writing your Bio on social media – Keep it short, start with sentences and then graduate to the advanced art of one word descriptors

Pro Tip: You don’t need to mention a company in your Bio unless you own it.

4. If you wear multiple hats & can’t decide which to lead with, stick to the one which brings in the most value to you. Focus on the ROI.
   Pro Tip: Don’t be influenced by those who have no impact on you and what you do.

6. To be considered interesting, you have to BE interested. 

Pro Tip: Stalk your audience. Who are they? Where do they look? What do they like? 

8. Dissonance between you and your self-image can be traced back to you. You’re putting it out there so know what you’re putting out. 

10. There is no point in having a social media account that’s private. Make that Instagram account public.
    Pro Tip: Block mercilessly and with joy! 

13. Let details of your personal journey stay to a minimal. By baring yourself to the world, you’re only making yourself vulnerable. 

Pro Tip: Being authentic is overrated. 

14. Attend physical events to build a solid network and make your presence known
    Pro Tip: Create a sartorial signature & don’t use another brand to do so – discrete over designers.

15. Always have a business card! Just share one particular contact detail, everyone doesn’t need to have access to you.