Branding and Media: A Personal Perspective on Building Recognition

I'll start this off with the disclaimer that I am no expert. What I'm about to share are simply reflections stemming from my experiences and perspectives. This is also quite brief, as this is a rich topic that warrants longer and deeper conversations. If there's one lesson I've learned in my journey so far, it's that life has a way of not always following the plans you've meticulously laid out. Case in point? My foray into the world of modeling after establishing my businesses. Sounds backward? Let me dive deeper.

THE UNEXPECTED MODEL

When most think of modeling, they think of the glamorous photo shoots, runways, and flashing lights. But for me, modeling was less about the glitz and more about strategic branding. Being the face of my brands wasn't the initial dream, but it became an integral part of my branding strategy. It wasn't vanity; it was intentional.

THE ESSENCE OF BRANDING

Branding isn't just about logos and catchy slogans. It's about recognition. In the vast sea of the marketplace where countless brands are vying for attention, how do you make sure yours doesn't drown in the noise?

1. Strategic and Intentional: The goal isn't just to be seen, but to be remembered. This involves intentionality in every move, every decision.
2. Authenticity and Transparency: One of my non-negotiables. Authenticity builds trust, and transparency cements it. A brand that's true to its values will always resonate more.
3. Foundation in Identity: Know who you are and who you're not. This clarity keeps you from losing your way in the world of business. It's not just about making a mark but making the right mark.

After the vision and the initial idea, my first pitstop? Branding. Once that's firmly in place, everything else follows in a harmonious symphony.

THE MEDIA CONUNDRUM

The media, with its sprawling reach, can be both a boon and bane. Is it crucial? Well, yes and no.

Earned Media: As a young business or a fledgling model or actor, this is the Everest one aims to climb. It's the "show me your credentials" hurdle. You're often asked, "What's your portfolio like?" or "Show me your resume." Just as a novice actor struggles to land an agent without a track record, businesses face the same skepticism when reaching out to the media. It's a marathon, not a sprint, proving your brand's worth over time.

Paid Media: While it might seem tempting to get a quick feature, I tread cautiously here. Today's consumers? Sharp as a tack. They can discern genuine features from paid promotions, and the latter doesn't always build trust. It's not a blanket rule, but it's one I heed.

In conclusion, my journey has been far from traditional. Modeling wasn't the start, but it became an enriching chapter in my story of building and branding. Through it all, whether it's business or modeling, the constants remain: authenticity, strategy, and patience. Because in the end, it's not about the quickest route to the top, but the journey of building something genuinely memorable.