Where to Start When Building a Personal Brand on Social Media
The other day, someone asked me: “Where would you even start if you're trying to build a personal brand on social media?"
Honestly, I could talk about this all day. But instead of overwhelming them with every single tip I’ve ever learned, I broke it down into three key stages - simple, strategic, and achievable for anyone starting out.
Whether you're a creative, small business owner or just exploring what your personal brand could be, this is a great place to begin.
1. Start With Why
Before you post a single thing, ask yourself: Why are you wanting to build a personal brand online?
Are you here to:
Sell a product or service?
Build brand awareness?
Grow a community of like-minded people?
It might be all of the above, and that’s totally okay. Getting clear on your why helps shape your voice, your visuals, and your messaging. It’s the foundation for everything else.
2. Tell Your Story
This is where the magic happens. What makes you you?
What sets you apart from others offering similar things? Maybe it’s your creative process, your personality, your values, or your approach to life and business.
Your story doesn’t have to be dramatic or polished - it just needs to be authentic. People connect with people. Share the parts of your story that feel real and relevant. That’s how you’ll attract the right audience (the ones who stick around).
Ask yourself:
What do I want people to remember me for?
What do I believe in that shapes how I do business?
What can I share that will help or inspire someone?
3. Build a Community (Not Just a Following)
The goal isn't just numbers. It’s connection. Start by making it easy for people to engage with you. Reply to comments with intention. Answer DMs with heart. Invite conversations.
Make it simple for people to know what you do and how to take the next step with you. If you offer a service, blog, ebook, or subscription, make sure it’s clearly linked in your bio and mentioned regularly in your content.
When people feel seen and welcomed, they’re more likely to stick around, support you, and eventually become clients, customers, or collaborators.
So… Where Do You Begin?
Right here. With purpose. With clarity. With a little courage and a whole lot of you.
Don’t overthink it. You don’t need to be “ready.” You just need to start.
If you're feeling stuck or not sure how to shape your brand story, you're not alone—this is something I help clients with all the time.
Need help finding your starting point? Get in touch with me here or follow along on Instagram for more tips.
Written by Bianca Brehaut Design – Creative Marketing for passionate brands, small businesses & people doing things differently.