In the world of Personal Branding, it’s not uncommon to draw inspiration from unexpected sources. One such surprising muse can be found in the Barbie movie franchise. As I sat in Scottish cinema excited to see what all the fuss was about, I observed that I was far from the oldest; while Barbie may seem like a children’s toy, her journey from a simple doll to a global icon has valuable lessons to offer anyone looking to enhance their personal brand.
Here’s my take on what we can learn from Barbie’s adventures and apply them to our personal branding efforts.
1️⃣ Embrace Change and Evolution
Barbie has undergone numerous transformations throughout her existence, from her initial launch in 1959 as a Fashion Model to taking on various roles such as a doctor, astronaut, and even a presidential candidate. The lesson here is clear: don’t be afraid to evolve and adapt your personal brand. As times change, so should you. Keep up with the latest trends in your field and be willing to pivot when necessary. Just like Barbie’s diverse career choices, your personal brand can flourish when you embrace change and evolve with the times.
2️⃣ Showcase Your Unique Talents
Barbie is a master of showcasing her unique talents. Whether it’s her impeccable fashion sense, her entrepreneurial spirit, or her ability to connect with people through the movie, she always highlights her strengths (wearing flat Birkenstock’s was not one of them). In personal branding, it’s crucial to identify your own USP and skills and showcase them proudly. What sets you apart from others in your field? Highlight these qualities to leave a lasting impression on your audience.
3️⃣ Build A Strong Support System
Throughout her adventures, Barbie is rarely alone. She surrounds herself with a strong support system, whether it’s Ken, Skipper, and her pets. In the movie, she forms a close bond with Gloria played by America Ferrera and Ariana Greenblatt who plays Sasha, who support her next goal in the ‘real world’.
In personal branding, having a support system is just as important. Cultivate a network of mentors, peers, and friends who can offer guidance, feedback, and encouragement. They can help you stay on track and provide valuable insights into your personal brand’s development.
4️⃣ Be Authentic
Barbie’s authenticity shines through in her adventures. She remains true to her values and passions, whether that’s promoting inclusivity or advocating for important causes. In personal branding, authenticity is key. Be genuine and transparent about who you are and what you stand for. Authenticity builds trust and helps your audience connect with you on a deeper level.
5️⃣ Continuous Learning & Growth
Barbie is a lifelong learner. She constantly seeks new experiences and opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills. This commitment to personal growth is a lesson we can all apply to our personal branding journeys. Invest in your education and professional development to stay at the forefront of your field. Demonstrating a hunger for knowledge can make your personal brand more appealing to potential clients or employers.
6️⃣ Embrace Diversity & Inclusion
Barbie has evolved to reflect the changing world around her, becoming more diverse and inclusive in her appearances and career choices. Personal branding should also reflect these values. Embrace diversity and inclusion in your personal brand, making sure it is a welcoming space for all. Show your commitment to these principles in your actions and messaging.
7️⃣ Stay Resilient
Barbie has faced countless challenges and setbacks, Margot Robbie playing Barbie had moments where she felt like giving up, but never did. She remained resilient in the face of adversity. Personal branding also requires resilience. You may encounter obstacles and criticism, but it’s essential to keep pushing forward and adapting to overcome these challenges.
Whilst the movie splits opinions, I embraced the light-hearted observation and enjoyed how Greta Gerwig brings depth and sensitivity to Barbie, exploring women’s issues and relationships often not discussed. By embracing change, showcasing your unique talents, building a support system, being authentic, continuously learning, embracing diversity, and staying resilient, you can enhance your personal brand and make it as iconic as Barbie herself. So, take a page from Barbie’s playbook and start building a personal brand that stands the test of time.
