What is Personal Branding, Anyway?

You’ve probably heard the phrase “personal branding” thrown around a lot lately. It’s one of those buzzwords that sounds like it belongs in a business school textbook or on a motivational poster. But in reality, personal branding is something that every entrepreneur, freelancer, and small business owner can benefit from, and it’s way more interesting than it sounds.

Think of Personal Branding as Your Business’ Personality

At its core, personal branding is all about presenting the you behind your business. It’s about the qualities that make you unique, the values you stand for, and the way you connect with others. It’s a blend of your personality, your story, and the expertise you bring to the table. In other words, personal branding is your business’ personality, it’s how people feel when they interact with your brand, both online and in real life.

Whether you’re a coach, a designer, a photographer, or any other kind of creative or entrepreneur, your personal brand is what sets you apart. It’s why your clients choose you over anyone else. It’s your essence, distilled into a brand.

“Personal branding, in its essence, is like telling a story - your story. But not in a “Once upon a time, I decided to become an entrepreneur” kind of way. It’s more about how you make people feel, the impressions you leave, and the distinct flavour you add to your industry, much like how a dash of nutmeg can transform a béchamel sauce from flat to fabulous.

It’s the reason we feel empowered blasting “Single Ladies” during our morning routine or trust Mary Berry’s guidance in the kitchen over a random Joe on the internet. These women have crafted their personal brands to resonate deeply with us, blending their talents, personalities, and values into a narrative we can’t help but follow.”

— Gemma Duck

Why Bother with Personal Branding?

You might wonder if building a personal brand is worth the effort, especially if you’re already busy running a business. But here’s the thing: personal branding can be a game-changer. In today’s world, where people have endless choices, a strong personal brand can make all the difference.

Here’s why it’s worth putting in the time and effort:

Connection is Everything: People buy from people they feel connected to. A personal brand gives your audience a reason to trust you, like you, and ultimately work with you.

Stand Out in a Crowded Market: No one else has your story, your perspective, or your unique way of doing things. Personal branding helps you highlight what makes you different, which is invaluable in a saturated market.

Your Brand, Your Rules: With a personal brand, you get to decide how you show up. It’s not about fitting into a corporate mould; it’s about embracing what makes you, well, you.

“So, how do you even “Brand” yourself? Here’s a fun fact: You’re already a brand. Yes, you, sitting there in your comfy pants scrolling through this post. The way you talk, your passions, the unique lens through which you view the world—that’s all part of your personal brand. The key is to mold it intentionally”

— Gemma Duck

How Do You Build a Personal Brand?

Building a personal brand doesn’t mean you need to share every detail of your life or adopt a flashy persona. It’s about choosing what feels authentic to you and what helps your audience connect with the real person behind the business.

Here are a few tips to get started:

1. Define Your Values: What do you stand for? What’s important to you in your business and personal life? These values are the foundation of your personal brand.

2. Know Your Audience: Who do you want to connect with? When you know who your ideal clients are, it’s easier to shape a brand that speaks to them directly.

3. Show Your Personality: Let a bit of your personality shine through in your content, whether it’s your sense of humour, your love for afternoon picnics, or the things you’re passionate about.

4. Share Your Story: Your journey is one of the most powerful tools in personal branding. Don’t be afraid to share how you got here, what you’ve learned along the way, and what you hope to accomplish.

5. Consistency is Key: From the colours and fonts you use to the tone of your writing, consistency builds recognition and trust. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but keeping things cohesive helps reinforce your brand.

Ready to Start Building Your Personal Brand?

If you’re feeling inspired and ready to dive into personal branding, start with the basics: share a bit more of you with your audience. Show up authentically, and focus on connecting with others in a way that feels genuine to you.

And when you’re ready to capture that essence visually, I’m here to help. A personal branding photoshoot is a great way to bring your brand to life, giving you images that reflect who you are, what you stand for, and what makes you unique.

Creating a strong personal brand isn’t an overnight project. It’s a journey of self-discovery and strategic expression that helps you carve out a niche that is uniquely yours. Whether you're looking to captivate an audience like Beyoncé or charm like Mary Berry, your personal brand is your pathway to professional empowerment and success.

Love Gemma x