Three ways to improve your business brand on social media
Professional services brand consultant Julissa Shrewsbury's top tips for individuals and small business owners to promote themselves in an ever-increasing digital-first world.

JULISSA Shrewsbury’s journey from primary school teacher to sought-after corporate consultant offers key lessons to conveyancers.
The professional services brand consultant specialises in helping individuals and small business owners promote themselves in an ever-increasing digital-first world.
“Whenever someone comes across your name or your business, the first thing they do is Google you,” says Julissa, who has advised a cross-section of the Australian business community, from Westpac to accountants.
While she says in-person interaction is always best practice, a springboard like LinkedIn is a must for those small businesses like lawyers.
Changing career from teaching to setting up and running a commercial photography and brand business helped shape some of the tools and techniques she passes on to clients.
Having returned to university in her late 20s, Julissa had the relevant qualifications and credits in photography and business, but needed to build a completely new portfolio of clients.
“I had been in education my entire working life, so my potential customers, clients, and referral sources were all in a very different space,” she explained.
“My networks and my audiences for the new business were extremely limited, if not completely non-existent.”
But as the customer base picked up and clients leaned on Julissa for advice to improve their image, she spent more time helping them form an effective personal brand and eventually transitioned into consulting.
Many of those she is advising are leaving large corporates to set up their own business.
“While a digital presence is essential, it’s not enough to just have a profile online,” she said.
“It’s about making sure your online presence reflects your professional capabilities and the value you bring to the table.”
Shrewsbury’s consulting strategy includes leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to build that robust digital reputation.
“I think we have moved away from seeing LinkedIn as an online CV,” she says.
“It can and should be used to build your network by leveraging your expertise to engage in industry discussions to build up trust that people want to see in those they are doing business with.”
While Julissa does not prescribe a specific time or the amount of resources that should be used to update social media, her tips offer a blueprint for establishing trust and credibility.
Here are her three crucial tips for small business owners looking to establish a strong personal brand:
Build a Strong Online Presence:
People Google you to learn more, even if referred. Your online presence is the first impression for many potential clients. So it’s crucial to cultivate a professional image across all platforms. This includes regularly updating a polished LinkedIn profile with recent achievements. A strong online presence can significantly enhance your credibility and visibility, making it easier for clients to trust your expertise.
Communicate Value Clearly:
Your communication plan should reflect your expertise and what you stand for. This involves more than just occasional posts. It’s about reinforcing your unique skills and experiences. By consistently sharing valuable content, you position yourself as a thought leader. This approach attracts potential clients who will value your expertise.
Leverage Your Network Strategically:
Be deliberate about online – and offline – connections. Networking should focus on building relationships that can lead to opportunities and mutual support. Online, engage with your connections by commenting on their posts, sharing their achievements, or even initiating discussions on relevant topics. Offline, attend industry events, seminars, and workshops to meet potential clients and partners. Combining digital and in-person networking efforts amplifies your reach and can significantly enhance your business growth.