Building a personal brand while growing
your business
Hey, SEE YOUTH’STERS! Zayn here.
When I first started InternationalT, I thought all my energy had to go into the business itself—the logo, the products, the Instagram feed. But the more I’ve grown, the more I’ve realised that people don’t just buy a brand. They buy you. Especially when you’re a young entrepreneur, your personal brand is just as important as your business brand.
People connect with stories, faces, and real-life journeys. That’s why it’s important to show up as yourself—not just as your company. Whether it’s sharing behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram, doing a short reel about your process, or even speaking about the challenges of running a business while studying, it builds trust.
Your personal brand gives your business a voice. It’s how you show your values, work ethic, and creativity—things that matter to your customers and future partners. And the best part? You already have everything you need to start.
Here are a few tips that have helped me:
- Post consistently, even if it’s once or twice a week.
- Share both wins and lessons. It shows growth.
- Engage with your followers genuinely.
- Keep your message real and relatable.
- Don’t be afraid to show your personality.
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are great for visual storytelling, but don’t sleep on LinkedIn either; it’s a powerful space for building credibility and finding opportunities.
The more visible and authentic you are, the more your brand becomes memorable. And as your business grows, your personal brand becomes something that can open doors you didn’t even see coming—like collabs, funding, or mentorships.
At the end of the day, people invest in people. So, keep showing up, keep telling your story, and let your journey inspire someone else to start theirs.
Need some advice or someone to chat to? Send us a DM on any of our social media pages or email info@seeyouthbycellc.co.za
