How Personal Branding Will Help Funded Startup Founders

Personal branding isn’t a luxury for funded startup founders; it’s an essential strategy.

Photo by Vladimir Solomianyi on Unsplash

When I started my journey as a founder, I didn’t realize how important personal branding was.

I thought my company’s product, vision, and funding would be enough to impress people.

But soon, I learned something big: people weren’t just buying into my company, they were buying into me.

Building a personal brand isn’t just a nice extra — it’s something every founder should focus on.

Why Personal Branding is Important for Startup Founders

Shows You’re a Leader

• When pitching to investors, your personal story makes you stand out. Imagine a room full of founders with similar ideas — your brand is what makes people remember you.
• Being seen as a thought leader builds trust. Think of Bill Gates. He’s not just a tech guy; he’s a global health expert too.
• Investors notice founders who have a strong personal presence. Elon Musk’s bold personality brings attention to his companies.
• Sharing your journey shows you’re an innovator. Sara Blakely’s Spanx story is a great example of this.
• Numbers are important, but stories make a lasting impression

Makes You Relatable

• Sharing your challenges and wins connects you to people. For example, Airbnb’s founders shared how they started by renting out their own space.
• Being honest about your journey builds loyalty. Simon Sinek says it best: “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.”
• Talking about tough times shows resilience, like how Walt Disney overcame failures before creating a legacy.
• Personal stories make you more inspiring. A tale of a near-miss launch can show your determination.
• Breaking the stereotype of a “distant founder” makes you approachable, like Richard Branson’s fun and visionary style.

Builds Trust with Everyone

• Investors trust founders who seem reliable and confident. Warren Buffett’s reputation gives people confidence in his decisions.
• Employees follow leaders who inspire them. John Maxwell says, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”
• Customers love brands with relatable founders, like Steve Jobs, who became the face of Apple’s innovation.
• Sharing insights regularly on social media builds credibility. Platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube help you connect with people.
• Partners and collaborators are drawn to trustworthy founders who live their values.

Opens PR Opportunities

• The media loves a good founder story. Melanie Perkins of Canva uses her story to highlight her company’s mission.
• Journalists look for founders who can explain trends. A strong personal brand makes you their go-to expert.
• Your brand amplifies your company’s vision. For example, Patagonia’s founder uses his brand to champion environmental causes.
• Keynote speeches and panel talks are easier to land with a strong personal image.
• You can shape how people see your industry by sharing your voice and ideas.

Prepares You for the Future

• Startups change, and markets shift, but a personal brand stays with you.
• Even if your business pivots, your personal reputation keeps you grounded.
• A strong brand helps you move into new ventures with ease. For example, Kevin Systrom of Instagram built on his success to grow further.
• Your brand is your safety net and launchpad for whatever comes next.
• People will always associate your name with vision and trust, no matter where you go.

How to Build Your Personal Brand

Be Authentic

• Share the lessons you’ve learned, including the mistakes. It makes you relatable.
• Speak on panels and join discussions to share your knowledge.
• Mentor others. Helping others grow shows you’re a true leader.
• Be clear about your values and what you stand for.
• Use stories to make your message stick. As Maya Angelou said, “People will forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.”

Use Social Media

• Post thoughtful content on LinkedIn to reach professionals.
• Share videos on YouTube to explain ideas visually.
• Join conversations on platforms like Twitter to connect with others.
• Team up with other leaders to create content that stands out.
• Be consistent. Regular posts and interactions build a loyal audience.

Show You’re an Expert

• Write articles to share your knowledge. Websites like Medium and Forbes are great for this.
• Speak at events to show people what you know.
• Work with journalists to tell your story. It boosts your visibility.
• Talk about new trends and where your industry is headed.
• Build connections with influencers who can amplify your message.