When you think of being ‘authentic’, what comes to mind? For me, it feels genuine, true, and even unique. Although we sometimes think of authenticity as simply being transparent, it’s ultimately about being forward about who you are and even unapologetic about your truths.

In the branding process, joining what we know about presence with authenticity means that we can create a truly aligned brand that is resistant to time and competition. 

Sound good? Keep reading for my three reasons why an authentic brand presence matters!

Your brand will be a true reflection of you.

As part of the branding process, I always encourage my clients to think about their X factor, to get really clear about what makes them different. When you know your undeniable X factor, you have the confidence and direction to build a founder-centric brand around your unique personality, talents, quirks, style, and approach. 

Although it’s possible  to build a brand around facets that aren’t your personality, I find that founders of small businesses do better to develop an authentic brand presence around these things. 

After all, if you’re not creating an amazing job for yourself that feeds your family, creates impact in your community, and helps you have the life you want to have, what’s the point? Your business should fuel you, the founder. If it’s not doing so, we need to take a step back and figure out what we can do to inject more authenticity into your brand.

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“When you know your undeniable X factor, you have the confidence and direction to build a brand around your unique personality, talents, quirks, style, and approach.”

– MILA YOLI

@PRESENCEOLOGY

When you brand up from what’s truest for you, the branding process begins to feel more holistic and make more sense as you start, build, and grow your business.

It will be more difficult for competitors to imitate you.

If you create an authentic brand presence that’s centered around who you are, it becomes that much more difficult for people to imitate you. 

Although there will always be others who are in your niche doing the same thing as you, building a brand that’s true to you means people can’t just lift elements of your brand and use them as their own.

We accomplish this by finding your X factor, then ensuring that each touchpoint of your brand conveys this visually, verbally, and even emotionally. Your services, brand assets, imagery, and even overall vibe should come back to your X factor.

You’ll have a clear sense of where you’re going in business.

When your brand reflects who you are at a deeply authentic level, you won’t struggle as much to discover your direction in business. 

Honestly? Being a business owner isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, and knowing the why and how on the hard days means you’ll have the strength to persist through challenges.

Are you ready to begin building your authentic brand presence?

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