In this vibrant LinkedIn Live session-turned-podcast, Mari-Liis Vaher, creator of Powerful Marketers, is joined by two incredible marketing and communication experts from Sweden: Mai Peksén and Mira Thimmayya. Together, they dive into the human side of personal branding—how to build your professional identity on LinkedIn in a way that actually feels like you. This conversation is packed with real-world insights, memorable stories, and plenty of laughs!
Overcoming the Fear of Visibility
Building a personal brand often starts with fear—fear of not being good enough, fear of being judged, or fear of showing up as your true self. Mira and Mai openly share their mindset shifts:
- Mira: “It doesn’t feel good in your body to be fake. You have to redefine personal branding so it aligns with your values.”
- Mai: “In the past, I used someone else’s voice to fit into the serious world of consulting. But when I finally gave myself permission to be playful and real, everything changed.”
Key takeaway: Your personal brand becomes magnetic when it’s authentic. The shift from “What should I post?” to “How can I be more me?” is where the magic happens.
One Word Branding & Professional Nicknames
Everyone’s encouraged to find their unique niche and identity, even if it’s as simple as one word. This fun exercise helps crystallize your value in any setting.
- Mai: LinkedIn Mai
- Mira: Big Sister
- Mari-Liis: Powerful Mari-Liis
Quote to remember: “It’s fun to be yourself!” – Mai Peksén
The STICKY Method for Memorable Content
Mira introduces her signature STICKY method:
- S – Story
- T – Truth
- I – Impact
- C – Consistency
- K – Kindness
- Y – You
Personal brand content that sticks is built on stories, truth, and purpose—shared consistently and authentically.
Practical Tips for LinkedIn Personal Branding
- Start small: One post per week is still consistent.
- Engage: Comments are mini-posts and powerful conversation starters.
- Focus: Stay within your niche to establish credibility.
- Use video: Build trust faster by letting people see and hear you.
- Social proof matters: Ask for and give recommendations on LinkedIn.
Quote: “You’re never ready. Ready is a decision.” – Mai Peksén
Timestamps
08:00 – Be yourself (even in serious industries)
16:10 – Thought leadership tips
28:20 – Avoiding overwhelm and finding your consistency
37:40 – The STICKY Method explained
45:20 – Songs, quotes, and final takeaways
Favorite Songs & Quotes
- Mira’s Song: Roar by Katy Perry
- Mai’s Song: I’m Ready by Bryan Adams
- Mira’s Quote: “Everyone puts their pants on one leg at a time.” – Mira’s Dad
- Mai’s Quote: “If you talk to people, good things will happen.”
Click here to discover the full Spotify list with the favorite songs of all Powerful Marketing Tips podcast guests.
Links:
- Connect with Mai Peksén: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maipeksen/
- Connect with Mira Thimmayya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirathimmayya/
Watch the episode on YouTube:
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