The Power of Sharing Your Personal Journey in Business

In our regular Wednesday 'Meet The Founder' series for #femalefounders, I have the privilege of talking to successful female entrepreneurs about their journey from #Founder2Leader. In these discussions I have been struck once again on how impactful each person's journey is, not just for themselves but at as an inspiration to others.

Sharing your personal story is a powerful tool for building meaningful business relationships, especially as a founder or business professional. Research shows that consumers and partners are more likely to engage with businesses that are relatable and transparent.

According to a report by Deloitte, authenticity is key in fostering trust and credibility in today’s business landscape. By sharing your journey, struggles, and successes, you create a human connection that goes beyond the transactional. People are more likely to remember your story than a list of products or services. A Harvard Business Review article emphasises the role of storytelling in leadership, highlighting that it helps inspire others and demonstrates vulnerability, which is essential for building deeper connections.

In a world where competition is high, authenticity sets you apart. Your personal story makes your business unique, and it’s an opportunity to share the values that drive you. Whether it’s the challenges you’ve overcome or your motivation to start your venture, these details make you more relatable and trustworthy. By sharing your story, you foster loyalty, encourage engagement, and build long-term business relationships grounded in trust and shared values.

As a Founder, Sharing your personal story can feel daunting, but with a clear framework, it becomes an authentic and powerful tool for connecting with others. Here’s a simple guide to help you craft your narrative:

1. Start with Your “Why” - Explain what motivated you to start your business or choose your career path. Simon Sinek's famous "Start with Why" framework is perfect for this—people connect with your purpose, not just what you do. Think about: What inspired you? What problem were you trying to solve?

2. Highlight Key Challenges - Share the obstacles you’ve overcome along the way. This makes your story relatable and authentic. People appreciate vulnerability as it humanises the professional journey.

3. Celebrate Your Wins - Balance the challenges by showcasing your achievements. Highlight key milestones and how they’ve shaped your business today.

4. Tie It Back to Your Audience - Relate your story to the needs, values, or aspirations of your audience.

How can your experience help them or inspire their journey?