Tune into pretty much any business show or podcast and you will see an entrepreneur sharing their story. Oh, their appearance is not by accident. Someone on their team figured out a long time ago that sharing their entrepreneurial journey can help to build their personal brand, attract new customers, and differentiate themselves from competitors. Yeah, sharing your story can have some powerful effects. This is why I have prepared eight reasons you must share your journey.
Here they are:
- It provides inspiration: The story of Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, who started her company with just $5,000 and grew it into a billion-dollar business, is incredibly inspiring. Blakely, who had no training in business or manufacturing, faced numerous rejections and setbacks. But she persisted and built a beloved brand. Her story has already inspired thousands to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams. Yeah, anything is possible with enough grit and perseverance.
- It creates connections: For instance, a local entrepreneur who shares their story at a networking event may meet other entrepreneurs who are interested in collaborating or providing support. By sharing their journey and experiences, entrepreneurs can build relationships and connect with others who share similar goals and values.
- It sets you apart: The story of Blake Mycoskie, the founder of TOMS Shoes, helps him stand out and differentiate himself from competitors. Mycoskie’s one-for-one approach to business, where TOMS gives away a pair of shoes for each they sell, not only provides a meaningful social impact but also sets TOMS Shoes apart from other shoe companies that solely focus on profits.
- It humanizes your brand: The story of Ben & Jerry’s, who started their ice cream business in a renovated gas station, and have always been committed to social and environmental causes, allows people to connect with their brand on a personal level. By sharing their story, Ben & Jerry’s is not just a company that makes ice cream, but a company that cares about their community and the environment.
- It highlights your unique selling proposition: The story of Airbnb, whose founders had the idea to rent out air mattresses in their apartment during a conference, can showcase the problem they are solving and how they are different from others in their field. By sharing their story, Airbnb founders demonstrate how they have revolutionized the hospitality industry.
- It demonstrates resilience: The story of J.K. Rowling, who was rejected by 12 publishers before finally getting her first book published, shows how resilient and determined she was in the face of challenges. Despite facing rejection and setbacks, Rowling persisted and went on to create one of the most beloved and successful book series of all time – making her a billionaire.
- It showcases your skills: For example, the story of Oprah Winfrey, who overcame a difficult childhood to become one of the most successful media moguls in history, can showcase the skills she has developed through her journey. She is known for her communication skills, empathy, and resilience. By sharing her story, Winfrey can demonstrate how her skills have helped her to create a media empire that inspires and empowers millions of people around the world.
- It can lead to new opportunities: By sharing her story, Sophia Amoruso, who started her multi-million dollar fashion business Nasty Gal on eBay, speaking engagements, media features, and new business ventures have flooded in. She has built a personal brand and platform that has opened doors book deals and collaborations with other brands. Her story has also inspired others to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams and build their own personal brands.
See, sharing your entrepreneurial story can have numerous benefits. It can inspire and motivate others, build credibility and trust, create connections and collaborations, differentiate yourself from competitors, humanize your brand, highlight your unique selling proposition, demonstrate resilience and showcase your skills, provide valuable insights, and open doors to new opportunities. By sharing your journey and experiences, you can not only help others but also grow your own personal brand and business. So don’t be afraid to share your story and let others know what you’re all about.