A business sells something. A brand stands for something.
If you’ve ever wondered why some businesses attract die-hard fans like it’s nothing, even when they’re selling something nearly identical to everything else, the answer is branding. A brand is your business, personified. It has a personality. A voice. A sense of style. Beliefs. A recognizable presence. You might have a business right now, but if you’re struggling to grow, get engagement, or stand out online, the missing piece might be that you don’t feel like a brand — yet.
A business offers a product or service that solves a problem for its customers. It might be a clothing line, a coaching program, or a coffee shop. You’re offering something people will buy, which is the business part.
A brand, on the other hand, gives people a reason to choose your coffee shop over the one across the street. It gives your audience something to connect to and remember. Old Spice and Dove both sell soap, but you see a very clear difference in the way they position themselves in the market. That’s the power of branding.
Why this matters (even if you’re just starting out)
Maybe you’re still side hustling or you’re a small business of one. Yes, you still need a brand. And not because it makes you look more professional! You need one because it makes decision-making easier. It helps you show up consistently, attract the right audience, and eventually grow. When you are the business (aka the founder, creator, marketer, and customer service rep), you need clarity. A brand gives you that.
How do you brand yourself?
Think of your brand like a person. You need:
A personality: Are you bold? Nurturing? Funny? Academic?
A point of view: What do you believe in? What do you stand for?
A style: What colors, fonts, and visuals feel like you?
A voice: How do you talk to your audience?
These are the components that make your business memorable and magnetic. Without these elements, you’re just another product on the shelf.
I created a Brand Strategy Workbook to help you build your brand step by step from scratch. It walks you through defining a unique value proposition, designing a visual identity, developing your brand’s voice, and getting clear on your ideal customer. If you’re ready to build a brand that actually connects with people, this workbook is your next step.
