INSIDE THE EPISODE:
In the latest episode of the Empowered Presence™ Podcast, host Melanie L. Denny engages in a compelling conversation with Morgan Chavis, a dynamic entrepreneur from Detroit. The discussion centers around the transformative power of personal branding for business, particularly for executive women of color. Melanie, a seasoned personal branding consultant and the creator of the Empowered Presence™ framework, underscores the critical role that personal branding plays in establishing authority and visibility in today’s competitive landscape.
Morgan Chavis, a proud Hampton University alumna, shares her inspiring journey from a successful corporate career to full-time entrepreneurship. As the owner of Lusso Salon and Lusso Suites, and the founder of the nonprofit organization Lusso Gives, Morgan highlights the importance of personal connections in branding. Her experiences have significantly shaped her approach to business coaching, making her insights invaluable.
Making Personal Brands More Personal
Morgan discusses how storytelling is essential in branding, allowing individuals to connect with their audience on a deeper level. She shares her own challenges in transitioning from a stylist to a business coach and the importance of embracing her identity as a leader in the beauty industry.
Morgan emphasizes the need to share your journey openly, including the highs and lows, to build trust and relatability.
Celebrating and sharing significant moments, such as launching a new business or overcoming a major challenge, can also enhance your personal brand. Additionally, incorporating photos and videos that tell your story visually can provide a behind-the-scenes look at your business or personal moments that shaped your journey.
Morgan reflects on her initial reluctance to embrace the title of "business coach," despite her natural skills positioning her in that role. She recounts how friends and acquaintances began seeking her advice on resumes and business strategies, leading her to realize the potential for monetizing her expertise. This journey of self-discovery and acceptance has allowed her to build a community of over 300 resume writers, providing mentorship and support to others in the industry.
Being true to yourself and not trying to fit into a mold that doesn’t feel right is crucial. Authenticity resonates more with your audience. Showcasing your personality, whether it’s your sense of humor, your passion, or your values, ensures that these traits are evident in your branding. Engaging with your audience by responding to comments and messages in a way that reflects your true self builds a genuine connection.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Growth
One of the key challenges Morgan faced was navigating her business through the pandemic. Initially detrimental, the pandemic ultimately became a turning point for Lusso Salon, as clients began to value self-care services more than ever. Morgan shares how she built her team and networked extensively, attracting talented individuals who believed in her vision, even when her business was just starting out.
Adapting to change and being flexible with your business model in response to external factors is essential. Building a strong team of individuals who share your vision can help you navigate challenges. Recognizing the importance of self-care for both you and your clients, especially during challenging times, is also vital.
Building Trust and Connection
Melanie and Morgan discuss the importance of being accessible as a business owner. Morgan shares her philosophy of being open and available to her clients, stating that every one of her suite renters has her personal phone number. This approach fosters trust and connection, making clients feel valued and invested in the brand.
Making yourself accessible to your clients through direct communication channels or regular check-ins is important. Building trust by being transparent and reliable in your interactions with clients, and encouraging a sense of community among your clients through events, social media groups, or other forms of engagement, can enhance your personal brand.
Melanie and Morgan agree that sharing personal stories and experiences is vital in establishing a connection with clients. They discuss how social media plays a significant role in this, allowing business owners to showcase their personalities and lives beyond their professional roles. By being relatable and transparent, entrepreneurs can build trust and foster a sense of community around their brands.
Sharing content that shows your human side, including personal stories, behind-the-scenes looks, and everyday moments, can make you more relatable. Posting consistently and engaging with your audience through comments, messages, and live sessions, and being open about your journey, including the challenges and successes, builds a deeper connection with your audience.
By embracing authenticity, sharing personal stories, and building genuine connections, entrepreneurs can create powerful personal brands that resonate with their audience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your brand, these insights and actionable tips can help you on your journey to building an impactful and authentic personal brand for business.
For more in-depth discussions and branding advice, tune into the Empowered Presence™ podcast and explore the wealth of knowledge shared by Melanie and her esteemed guests.
