Podcast: How to Express Personality in Your Branding

Branding can be misunderstood sometimes. Yes, it’s about being professional and polished, but you still want to be yourself. Too often, people think they have to water down their personalities to be like others in their industries, but you don’t. That actually makes it worse because being yourself is what helps you really stand out online. Here’s some tips on how to express your personality with your brand online, so you can set yourself apart—simply by being who you are.

Tip #1: Write how you speak.

I know, I know. This is contrary to everything we were taught in English class, but think about it, online people are trying to connect with you. It’s all about talking as you would to a friend, so if you’re super proper and business-like, you’re going to turn off your audience. That’s not how you talk to your friends. Talk casually, in a way that is approachable and how you’d normally talk in your every day life. You can type as you go if you’re writing or you could even record yourself talking and then type that up as you were talking.

Tip #2: Use the design that you gravitate towards.

How many times have you second-guessed your own preferences based on how your competitors are positioning themselves? So what if your competitors are all black and white and monotone in their branding. If you want to be the color enthusiast, I’m right there with you! Your taste in design is YOURS. You don’t have to change it to fit what you think is acceptable. People who have preferences similar to yours will be drawn to you, so don’t worry. This will even help you differentiate yourself in the market.

Tip #3: Put your own style on your photography.

Do you have a unique sense of style? Do you have a thing for art walls around your city? Whatever it is, allow your style and preferences to shine in your photography. Your photos tell a story about you on your website and on social media, even before people read a word you’ve typed. Be sure the photos you select represent who you are and what you do. When I’m planning photoshoots, I always select props that naturally reflect who I am and what I’m doing. I love color, so I’ll get colorful notebooks and flowers. It instantly makes my photos really unique!

Tip #4: Tell your story.

So nothing shows off your personality quite like your story. I’ve connected with others online way more because of their stories, and it’s even influenced me to buy their products, at times, because I understood their journey to get to the point where they are. Your story is powerful now online, so even though it can be uncomfortable at times, share it. You never know who you’ll inspire or what new connections you’ll make online.

Being yourself is one of the most courageous things you can do. Do it with strength and confidence and watch your community grow! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share it with a friend! Thanks for listening!