Gone are the days when a groundbreaking idea or a revolutionary product alone would guarantee triumph. In 2023, entrepreneurs must embrace the art of crafting a personal brand that intimately connects with their startup's values and vision. They must realise that they themselves embody their companies, serving as the secret weapon that elevates credibility, entices investors, and propels them towards victory.

But let's face it. Personal branding can be intimidating. It demands unwavering commitment, strategic thinking, and the agility to navigate the ever-changing entrepreneurial landscape.

So, how can entrepreneurs navigate the intricate process of crafting a personal brand that seamlessly aligns with their startup? What strategies and approaches should they employ to balance representing their venture's identity and staying true to their authentic selves?

Let's explore.

Benefits of personal branding

Before diving into practical strategies to craft a killer personal brand, let's first look at why personal branding is so important. 

Trust and credibility:

Trust is the bedrock of successful business relationships. In a recent survey, almost half (46%) of consumers said that they would pay more to purchase from brands they can trust. This staggering statistic reveals the immense power and influence that branding can have. By carefully crafting a personal brand that aligns with the startup's values, entrepreneurs can establish credibility and earn the trust of potential customers and investors.

Authenticity and relatability:

Stackla found that 88% of consumers believe that authenticity is important when deciding what brands they support and like. In a world drowning in generic marketing messages, people are thirsty for something real and genuine. They want to connect with authentic, honest, and relatable entrepreneurs.

That's where personal branding comes in. It's the perfect platform to showcase your unique story, passions, and motivations. By embracing your true self, you can create a narrative that deeply resonates with your audience, building a loyal following for your startup.

Thought Leadership and differentiation:

Personal branding can also help you become a recognised thought leader and industry expert. 

What does it mean to be a thought leader? Well, it’s about becoming a recognised authority in your field, someone who has deep knowledge and the ability to share insightful insights.

Being a thought leader has its perks. It opens doors to partnerships, collaborations, and media opportunities. Other professionals and organisations seek out thought leaders like you, wanting to work with someone who has your expertise and unique perspective. These collaborations can expand your startup's network and resources. Plus, thought leadership attracts media attention, increasing your chances of being featured in publications and giving your startup the valuable exposure it needs.

Discover your style

Not all personal brands are cut from the same cloth. According to an old article in The New York Times, there are six types of personal brands:

1. Altruists: These extraordinary individuals pour their hearts and souls into making a positive impact through acts of service, philanthropy, and pro-bono work. Picture the likes of Bill Gates, Angelina Jolie, and Michael Bloomberg, using their influence to change the world.
2. Careerists: For the ambitious souls yearning to be recognised as thought leaders in their industries, the careerist path is paved with personal and business achievements. Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Neil Patel embody this vibrant style, constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation.
3. Hipsters: Prepare to embrace the trendsetting adventurers who dance to the beat of their own drum. These hipsters have a knack for discovering the next big thing and sharing it with fervour. Join the ranks of influential entrepreneurs like Sam Parr as they lead the charge of all things fresh and innovative.
4. Boomerangs: Buckle up for the wild ride of controversy and debate. Boomerangs delight in stirring the pot, presenting ideas that may not necessarily align with their own beliefs. They thrive on sparking conversations, challenging the status quo, and sparking passionate reactions. Think of meme accounts, fiery media personalities like Katie Hopkins, and fearless commentators.
5. Connectors: Get ready to connect and build communities like never before. These social butterflies are masters of cultivating meaningful relationships, whether by sharing job opportunities, providing mentorship, or engaging with others in feeds, comments, and groups. Step into the world of connectors and watch your network flourish.
6. Selectives: Specialising in the art of catering to specific audiences, selectives possess an extraordinary depth of knowledge within their niche. Their goal is to become invaluable thought leaders, irrespective of the size of their sphere of influence. Their resourcefulness and expertise in delivering targeted content is something to be marvelled at.

Let these categories spark your imagination as you embark on your personal branding adventure. Remember, there's no right or wrong choice – just make sure your authentic self shines through as you carve your own unique personal brand.

How to connect your personal brand to your startup

Now that you've discovered your personal branding style, it's time to bridge the gap between your captivating persona and your business. Here's how.

Tell your story

Your personal brand is far more than a mere list of accomplishments and credentials. It's the story that sets you apart from the crowd, the journey that has shaped your entrepreneurial path. Take a moment to reflect on the pivotal moments, the challenges you've overcome, and the experiences that have moulded you into the dynamic entrepreneur you are today.

For instance, before venturing into the fintech industry, I found myself navigating a male-dominated landscape as one of the few women. Instead of shying away from this reality, I embraced it as an integral part of my narrative. I consciously tried to champion inclusivity within the fintech realm, working tirelessly to break down barriers and create opportunities for others.

Actionable tips:

• Reflect on key moments and challenges that have shaped your journey
• Embrace authenticity and show vulnerability in your storytelling
• Infuse your narrative with personality and humour
• Use storytelling techniques like vivid descriptions and compelling anecdotes
• Tailor your story to resonate with your target audience

Embrace your startup's identity

Your startup has its own personality, values, and mission. Dive deep into understanding what makes your business special and what differentiates it from the competition. Identify the core values and key messages that define your venture. Once you have a clear grasp of your startup's identity, find creative ways to align it with your personal brand.

For example, if you own a sustainable clothing brand, you could demonstrate your commitment to sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices into your personal life. You could also wear your own brand's clothing and use it as an opportunity to spark conversations about sustainable fashion. Finally, you could create content that educates and inspires your audience about sustainable fashion and living.

Actionable tips:

• Incorporate your startup's values into your daily life
• Partner with like-minded influencers to amplify your message and reach a wider audience
• Share valuable content that aligns with your startup's mission

Shout it from the rooftops

Now it's time to crank up the volume and let the world know about your personal brand and startup. Here are some ways you can shout it from the rooftops:

• Build your online presence: Get your digital game on point. Show up on social media like a boss, rock your website, and be present in those industry forums. And don't forget to spice things up with great visuals
• Network and collaborate: Get out there and mingle. Attend industry events, join communities, and make connections with like-minded individuals. Collaborate with other awesome entrepreneurs in your field and watch your reach skyrocket. It's all about expanding your horizons and tapping into new audiences
• Engage with your audience: It's time to put your social skills to work. Respond to comments, messages, and inquiries quickly. Get interactive with your content, go live, and host some epic Q&A sessions. Show your audience some love, listen to their feedback, and build those real connections that'll make them stick around

Harness the power of your personal brand

So, there you have it. A complete overview on how to create a personal brand that aligns with your startup.

Personal branding is all about telling a story that reflects who you are and what your startup stands for. It's about being authentic, relatable, and showcasing your expertise in a way that resonates with others.

But here's the twist: personal branding isn't just about the benefits it brings to your startup. It's about self-discovery and personal growth too. Through the process of building your brand, you'll gain a better understanding of yourself, your values, and your passions. You'll discover what makes you truly unique and learn how to leverage that uniqueness to make a positive impact on the world.

So, find your voice, share your story, and connect with your audience in a genuine and meaningful way. Your startup has the potential to make a difference, and your personal brand is the fuel that will ignite its success. Trust in yourself, stay true to your values, and let your personal brand be the guiding light on your entrepreneurial journey.