Brilliantly You: The Benefits of Personal Brand Building for Entrepreneurs
It’s a controversial opinion, but it’s one I stand behind: Business branding only goes so far. Eventually, consumers begin to crave something they can’t quite get from an enigmatic corporate entity— real, genuine human connection.
Yes, there are ways to humanize a business brand, but your competitors are likely working to humanize their brands too. And since company brands can only be unique in so many ways, this puts you at risk of being imitated or running out of creative strategies for standing out.
Personal brands, on the other hand, are way more difficult to duplicate. Only you are you, and that’s your superpower!
By harnessing the power of personal brand building, you can form a meaningful connection with your target audience that goes beyond your business and solidify your position as an industry thought leader.
Interested? Let’s explore the concept of personal branding for entrepreneurs a little more closely. Then you can make an informed decision for you and your business.
What is personal brand building?
Personal brand building is the process of defining and showcasing what makes you unique and valuable as an expert in your field. It involves strategically promoting your values, professional goals, and authentic personality to your target audience in a way that resonates.
Why Building a Personal Brand is Important for Entrepreneurs
1. IT ESTABLISHES CREDIBILITY
Personal brand development is an absolute must if you want to be seen as an industry authority. Remember, 74% of consumers say they’re more likely to trust someone who has a strong and well-defined personal brand.
By clarifying who you are, what you stand for, and the value you bring to your area of expertise, you solidify your reputation as a leader— allowing others to confidently invest in your knowledge.
2. IT MAXIMIZES MARKETING IMPACT
Another benefit of personal branding for entrepreneurs is how it increases the efficiency of business marketing efforts. When your target audience respects you as an individual, they’re more likely to trust that you run your business with integrity and that you provide reliable, top-tier solutions to the challenges they’re facing.
This makes it much easier to promote your products or services, since your ideal customers are already convinced you’ll prioritize their best interests and therefore have less barriers to purchase.
3. IT MAKES YOU SHINE AND STAND OUT
A captivating and compelling personal brand identity sets you apart from others. In fact, 60% of consumers base buying decisions on the business owner’s values, words, and actions— which means your personal brand could be the deciding factor when it comes to who your ideal customers do business with.
Personal brand building puts you at the forefront of consumers minds and clearly communicates why they should choose you over anyone else.
“60% of consumers base buying decisions on the business owner’s values, words, and actions”
4. IT ENSURES CAREER ADAPTABILITY
Personal brands are long-lasting. They remain with you, regardless of whether or not you change career paths, sell your business, or pivot into a new market.
This means that, with a strong personal brand identity, not only will you be more attractive to potential future employers or business partners, but you’ll maintain the loyalty of the consumers you’ve already served— an invaluable resource you can tap into as you transition to your next endeavour.
5. IT VALIDATES PREMIUM PRICING
Every entrepreneur wants to be compensated fairly for the value they provide. The problem? Raising prices without justifying them can result in sticker shock for ideal customers.
Establishing a well-regarded personal brand is one of the best ways to validate higher rates. It increases the perceived value of your service or product and creates a sense of exclusivity—encouraging your target audience to see your rates as an investment rather than just a transaction.
Lastly, a strong personal brand increases the likelihood of referrals from your existing customer base. And since we know referred customers' lifetime value is 16% higher than non-referred customers, this also benefits your bottom line and further validates a top-end price point.
3 Shining Personal Brand Examples
1. VERA WANG
The name Vera Wang is synonymous with elegance and beauty— and there’s a reason for that. She has strategically positioned herself as the authority on high-quality, timeless, and luxurious bridal designs. Her personal brand conveys her commitment to sophistication, from her sleek and minimalistic clothing choices, to her refined tone of voice.
2. GORDON RAMSAY
Beyond his culinary expertise, Gordon Ramsay's larger-than-life personality defines his brand. His passionate, no-nonsense delivery has gained him worldwide recognition, establishing him as an unstoppable force. Additionally, his consistent personal brand has allowed him to generate success across a broad range of entrepreneurial endeavors, from cookbooks to restaurants and television shows.
3. WHITNEY WOLFE HERD
Herd’s distinct vision for a female-first dating app (Bumble) propelled her into the tech spotlight. But beyond entrepreneurship, her advocacy for women in business and her commitment to fostering respectful connections define her personal brand. She has established herself as a spokesperson for female empowerment, particularly in relation to romance, and uses her voice to create positive change.
Why Blend In When You Can Shine Brighter Than Ever? Invest in a Personal Brand Building Strategy Today.
Uncover the essence of both your personal and professional brands with the Start Shining Strategy. Together, we'll amplify your presence, boost your impact, and set the stage for success.
Ready to take the first step?