What Taylor Swift Taught Me About Personal Branding
How leaning into authenticity and connection can transform your business.
Have you noticed how Taylor Swift has been absolutely everywhere this year? Her sold-out tours, her albums dominating the charts, even her rumored relationships—it’s impossible to ignore her. But as I’ve watched her rise, one thing has become crystal clear: she isn’t just a pop star; she’s a master of personal branding.
And that got me thinking—what could entrepreneurs like us learn from Taylor Swift?
Taylor doesn’t just sell music. She sells a connection. Her fans feel like they know her personally. Her lyrics tell stories that resonate deeply, and her consistency across everything she does—from her Instagram posts to her public appearances—makes her unforgettable.
When I started my business, I struggled with personal branding. I worried about being “too much” or turning people off if I was too specific about who I was or what I offered. But watching Taylor taught me this: when you lean into who you are unapologetically, you attract the right people and repel the wrong ones.
Here are three lessons we can all take from her:
Know your audience better than they know themselves. Taylor’s fans see her as a reflection of their own experiences. Who’s your audience, and how can you reflect their struggles and goals?
Tell your story authentically. Whether she’s writing about heartbreak or reclaiming her power, Taylor’s vulnerability is her strength. Your audience doesn’t just want your expertise—they want to know you.
Show up consistently. From Easter eggs in her social media posts to her bold public statements, Taylor’s audience knows what to expect—and that builds trust. Are you showing up where your audience is, again and again?
Taylor’s fans don’t just buy tickets; they line up for merch drops, scream the lyrics to every song, and follow every breadcrumb she leaves behind.
Imagine if your audience felt the same loyalty toward your brand and expertise.
Personal branding isn’t about being famous or flashy. It’s about building trust, connection, and an identity so clearly that people know you before they even work with you.
If you’re building a personal brand, don’t hide behind a facade of who you think people want you to be. Remember, if someone doesn’t like what they see, that’s ok. They will self-select themselves out of your circle and make room for those who value your and want to be there.
