Person Branding: what is the best way to build your platform?

Interesting to find your question here today since I just started a project with a friend of mine, branding him as a niche engineer in the automotive industry. 
One (but “only” ONE) aspect would probably be online reputation assesment through a well syndicated blog, utilizing social media, third party validation through guest blogging and being written about by other bloggers etc. etc. 
The internet is a great platform to gain visibility, especially on an international basis. It has granted me the oportunity to generate a lot of business around the globe. Business, I would have hardly gotten my hands on if I hadn’t had this grand platform available. 
Hope I was able to help you and feel free to call me if you have further questions.