6 Key Things You Must Do to Build Your Personal Brand in 2025
I’m committed to bringing you the latest thinking, trends, and insights in the world of Personal Brand. One important thought leader in this space is Ash Jones. Founder of Great Influence and the strategist behind well-known figures like Steven Bartlett, Ash has a refreshing take on personal branding that cuts through the noise of viral trends and influencer culture.
“As someone who guides creative entrepreneurs and lifestyle business owners through their personal brand journey, I couldn’t agree more with Ash’s perspective. It aligns beautifully with the work I do through my photography, strategy sessions, and the VISIBLE Kick Starter program.
Here's my take on the key lessons from Ash’s recent appearance on the Creator Playbook podcast—and how you can use them to build a brand that actually makes an impact this year.”
1. Lead with Authenticity, Not Vanity
"Personal branding isn’t about being known by everyone—it’s about being known by the right people, for the right thing."
Ash is clear: the most powerful personal brands come from a place of truth. And this is exactly what I help my clients uncover in their shoots and strategy work—the real story behind their business. Forget follower counts or perfectly curated feeds. In 2025, the brands that resonate will be those rooted in realness.
2. Be Relentlessly Consistent
One of Ash's strongest messages is that consistency is everything. Whether you're posting weekly, showing up in your stories, or planning seasonal photoshoots, doing it regularly builds trust and recognition. This is why I help my clients create a plan they can stick to—not just a one-off campaign.
3. Share Ideas, Not Just Yourself
It’s easy to fall into the trap of oversharing in the name of transparency. But as I always remind my clients, your personal brand isn’t about documenting your entire life. It’s about sharing your perspective, your process, and the ideas you want to be known for. This shift makes all the difference.
Sarah Curran, Flow Growth Hub brings her passion for cold water to her audience sharing the tools she’s learned to live with more balance and flow.
4. Start with Strategic Positioning
Before you post a single piece of content, you need clarity:
What do you want to be known for?
Who do you want to influence?
What value do you bring?
This is the heart of what we uncover together during the Personal Brand Blueprint Day. It gives you the focus and direction needed to create consistent content that aligns with your bigger goals.
5. Use Social Proof to Build Trust
Ash believes social proof is one of the most important tools in your personal brand toolbox—and I agree. It’s why part of the VISIBLE program includes a featured story on my SEO-optimised blog and a visual brand story that positions you as someone worth watching. Trust is built through visibility and alignment.
6. Don’t Outsource Your Voice
Even if you work with a content team, your voice is the cornerstone of your personal brand. I always tell clients: no one can be you better than you. That’s why every shoot and strategy session I offer is designed to help you reconnect with your voice, values, and vision—so you can show up in your own unique way.
Personal Brand Portrait Shoot with stylist Trish McDermott, 2025
Personal Brand Success Stories: Inspiring Client Case Studies from Ireland
Dr Michelle Hone - Founder of The Fit Clinic and Co-Founder of HEROLOGY Supplements.
One of my photography clients, Dr. Michelle Hone, has truly inspired me with her personal brand. Dr. Michelle has dedicated her career to helping women understand the unique intricacies of their hormonal makeup, offering solutions where traditional narratives have often placed limitations. As the founder of The Fit Clinic, she has built a team of dedicated nutritionists who provide functional solutions for women facing hormonal and fertility challenges. From this foundation, Michelle’s personal brand has emerged, supporting her new business venture, Herology, co-founded with Dr. Sarah Kelly. While The Fit Clinic focuses on functional health solutions, Herology offers a supplement line that further empowers women on their wellness journeys. I truly admire Michelle’s consistent posting, the sharing of valuable, science-backed information, and how she has confidently owned her space in the Irish market. Together, these businesses reflect Michelle’s commitment to improving women’s health and breaking down barriers, with her personal brand strengthening both The Fit Clinic and Herology.
Geraldine Jones, Founder of Skin Formulas.
Another one of my valued clients, Geraldine Jones, Founder of Skin Formulas, has expertly combined her passion for skincare with her personal story to build a strong and authentic brand. Through her daily posts, Geraldine shares valuable skincare insights and the journey of creating Skin Formulas, offering her audience a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of building a business. Her ability to blend practical advice with personal experiences not only educates but also deepens the connection she has with her followers, building trust and supporting the growth of her business. Geraldine’s approach shows how powerful storytelling can be in shaping a personal brand and resonating with an audience.
Final Thought:
Ash’s take on personal branding really speaks to what I believe: it’s not about being loud or everywhere—it’s about being real, being consistent, and being clear about what you stand for. If that’s what you’re looking for in your own personal brand journey, I’d love to help. I work with clients on their Personal Brand Strategy and shoot vibrant personal brand photography—both in my beautiful natural light studio in Wicklow and on location.
Check out my PORTFOLIO to see how we can bring your story to life.
My VISIBLE Kick Starter program is here to support you with in-person bespoke personal brand strategy sessions and photography bringing you clarity, confidence, and a creative spark. Let’s make your brand feel like you—and make sure the right people see it.
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE
READY TO BOOK A SHOOT? Learn What shoot suits you HERE
