It’s a jungle out there…and there are no signs of change any time soon.

On the employment front, there were 1.5 job seekers for every available position before the “Great Recession” of 2007. Today, there are six candidates for every job

To survive in our current economy, you have to differentiate yourself. In your last business meeting, networking opportunity or job interview, what impression did you make? Did others see you as a go-getter, a good fit for the job, a compassionate soul? Or, did they decide that you were someone they’d rather not do business with?

Here’s where your personal brand and knowing what it is comes in. Your brand is what you’re known for – your personal attributes, strengths and passions. It consists of several different parts, including the activities, interests, passions, challenges and goals that make you who you are. Your brand is the value you offer your current or next employer.

So, ask yourself, “What makes me different? What am I known for? What can I do that no one else – or not too many people – can do?

Once you’ve answered these questions, then embrace these traits and let others know about them. What differentiates you is exactly what will hit home with those you’re trying to influence. If you want to be remembered, you’ve got to be memorable!

Think about entertainers and their trademarks - the things that make them different. Elvis wore jumpsuits and passed out silk scarves to his fans. Johnny Cash always wore black. And don’t forget Michael Jackson’s sequined glove and white socks. These stars' wearing apparel became the trademarks. Why? Because they differentiated them from everyone else.

Is it easy to leave your mark after every encounter? Not always. Personal branding is something you work at every day. You strive for consistency, tweak your appearance to remain well-groomed and in style and you constantly work to make your brand as obvious to an ever-expanding circle as often as possible. Be sure – at the end of every meeting, every sales call, every networking event or job interview – that others have a clear idea of who you are, what makes you unique and why they want to hire you or do business with you.