Do you first build the business or your brand?

Things become a tad bit confusing when one begins to talk about a brand and a business, as most people think that they are one and the same. However, that’s not the case. Even though the two are joined at the hip – they complement each other – they are as different as night and day. So, let’s break it down for you. 

What is your foundation?  Without your business, you do not have a brand to grow. Grace Kariuki of Sheeimage Africa is a corporate trainer whose main focus is personal and corporate branding.  She says that developing the product is the first step. “Your business cannot survive without products or services. Otherwise, what else are you offering your clients? First, develop a product or services.  “In the early days of running your company as a solopreneur, you will work one on one with your clients. Once you begin to grow, you can start subcontracting some of the work and focus on other models that can bring you more income. As you grow, and by delegating, you will realise that your business does not need you to do most of the heavy lifting. Then you can begin to start thinking about your brand.