Thanks to the internet, you no longer need to come from money or a certain family to become well-known. You can create a name for yourself by simply posting a Youtube video or becoming Instagram famous.  But, why is it that some people are able to get millions of views while others seem to merely exist on the web?

A fair amount of those people who exploded to online fame weren’t even trying. Somehow, their posts spread like wildfire. The internet is still pretty unknown, but what is certain is that it has no shame. While we would like to hope the content that resonates the most is about stuff that really matters, that’s not always the case.

Let’s face it, we all need a little entertainment now and then. The real world can get a tad too serious, so we turn to the web and go to what we really want to see. Whether we need the answer to a question or want to watch a new show, it’s all right there at our fingertips.

This information overload is causing our attention spans to decrease like never before. We need a better way to navigate the through the unknown web.

Read on for a fews ways you can use the internet as a tool to tell your story:

1. Filter to What Serves You

We need the capability to filter through all of the noise, deciding what’s relevant to us. Given the opportunity to connect with others throughout the world, are we really making the most out of it? We have the ability like never before to create a name for ourselves without spending thousands of dollars on advertising. If you’re thinking about starting a blog or online business, it seems that the power is in your hands.

However, on the path to building something that matters, we get stuck scrolling through Facebook comparing ourselves to others. Given that we have the power to choose what we view online, you would think that we would just X out of sites that are actually making us depressed, but that’s easier said than done.

The problem is not that there isn’t uplifting content online, but that there is so much content in general. We have to be able to filter through it all faster than humanly possible. Yes, we can choose who we follow online, but we can’t control all the ideas and opinions that are thrown at us constantly.

The only thing we truly can control on the internet is what we put out there. It’s far too idealistic to assume that all the content you create should serve a greater purpose. But, if you are intentional about using the internet to build your brand, you can begin using it to your advantage.

“Visual content, more creative storytelling, and interactive content contribute to experiences that inform and create an emotional connection with buyers. Brands are still creating more content, but it’s held to a higher standard by customers.” – Lee Odden

2. Create an Honest Brand

You can look at the internet and social media as a way to get likes or a certain number of views. If that happens, then fantastic! There are definitely tactics you can learn to better understand social media algorithms and how to better connect with your audience.  

But putting out content solely to increase your likes might eventually lead to feeling empty. The more likes we get, the happier we feel at the time. But, what about after? Can we say that we’re honestly controlling what we put out there or is the web controlling us?

What matters most is that you’re building a name for yourself that is greater than skin deep. And trust me, I don’t think everyone on the internet needs to be laser-focused on building their brand. But, if you’ve committed to using the internet as a way to further your personal brand, ask yourself how it can serve a greater purpose.

3. Build with the Future in Mind

The internet is still very undefined. We’re told to be careful what we post, because it will last forever. And yet we look back at our Facebook memories wondering why we posted completely random song lyrics back in the day.

The good thing is that if you’re not where you want to be career-wise, you have the opportunity to showcase your objectives and tailor your current status to accentuate skills that will get you to where you want to be. I suggest getting as clear as possible on your objective. Don’t let the internet pull you in ten different directions. This is where simplicity rules.

The clearer you can be on your agenda, the quicker you can filter through all the noise to what matters to you. More and more online trainings are popping up where you can master new skills for free or a more affordable rate. You can dip your toes in the water without going back to school. Just be sure that any trainings you embark on are reputable and in line with your vision.

“If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy and inspires your hopes.” – Andrew Carnegie

4. Connect in a Purposeful Way

Most importantly, we have the ability to connect with others who are where we want to be. While it’s always great to form connections face-to-face, we can reach out to role models online eventually leading to a phone call or meeting for coffee. I’ve learned more in a 15-minute call from a business owner I met online than I have in hours spent with others.

Even if you’re just exploring different career routes, you have the power to reach out to individuals from all paths. As long as you reach out to those people in an honest and grateful manner, most people are willing to share their story. As always, take advice with a grain of salt, but it can prove to be eye-opening in a way that you never imagined.

Whether you’re where you want to be or just getting started, you have the power to use the internet to develop your personal brand. Use this power to show others online your purpose. By controlling what you put out there, you never know who you just might connect with.

How are you building your brand in the noisy online world? Share your best tips below!

Image courtesy of Twenty20.com