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Starting your personal brand can be exciting—but let’s face it, it’s easy to overspend on things that don’t actually move the needle. When you’re just getting started, every dollar counts. To help you avoid costly mistakes, I’m sharing six things you shouldn’t waste your money on when building your brand and smarter alternatives to get the job done.
1. Logos
A professionally designed logo might seem essential, but it’s not a priority when you’re starting out. Chances are, you’ll change it multiple times as your brand evolves.
What to Do Instead:
Use free tools like Canva to create a simple text-based logo.
Focus on building your brand’s identity through your value, voice, and connections with your audience.
Pro Tip: Your logo doesn’t define your brand—you do. Save the fancy branding for later when your brand is more established.
2. Websites
You don’t need a custom-built website to launch your brand. A simple landing page or social media profile can do the job just as well at the start.
What to Do Instead:
Use platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Canva for simple website templates.
Consider alternatives like Linktree for easy navigation to your social profiles or services.
Pro Tip: Focus on growing your audience and refining your offerings first. Invest in a robust website once your brand generates consistent income.
3. Paid Ads
Paid ads can amplify your reach, but they aren’t necessary when you’re just starting out—especially if you don’t have a proven strategy or engaged audience yet.
What to Do Instead:
Focus on organic growth by creating consistent, valuable content that attracts your ideal audience.
Test different messaging and refine your offer before considering paid advertising.
Pro Tip: Paid ads work best when you already know what resonates with your audience. Start small with organic content to build that foundation.
4. Expensive Equipment
It’s tempting to think you need a high-end camera to create great content, but your smartphone is more than enough to get started.
What to Do Instead:
Use your phone for recording content and clean the camera lens regularly for high-quality visuals.
Edit videos using free or low-cost apps like CapCut or InShot.
Pro Tip: Upgrade your equipment only when you’ve proven consistency and need tools to take your content to the next level.
5. Business Cards
Physical business cards are no longer as essential as they once were. Most people prefer to connect online.
What to Do Instead:
Create a QR code that links to your Instagram, LinkedIn, or email list.
Focus on building a strong social media presence that’s easy for people to find.
Pro Tip: Invest in digital tools that make it simple for others to connect with you on the spot.
6. Buying Followers
Purchasing followers might seem like an easy way to boost your credibility, but it does more harm than good. Fake followers don’t engage, buy, or build trust with your audience.
What to Do Instead:
Attract real, engaged followers by creating authentic, valuable content.
Focus on quality over quantity—1,000 genuine followers are more valuable than 10,000 fake ones.
Pro Tip: Building a loyal audience takes time, but it’s worth the effort to create genuine connections that drive long-term success.
Final Thoughts
When you’re starting your personal brand, the goal is to be strategic with your spending. Here’s a quick recap of the six things you shouldn’t waste money on:
Logos
Websites
Paid Ads
Expensive Equipment
Business Cards
Buying Followers
Focus on cost-effective tools and tactics that allow you to grow sustainably. Build a solid foundation first, then invest in upgrades as your brand starts generating consistent income.
Free Resource: Get Started Without the Stress
If you’re struggling with creating content for your personal brand, I’ve got you covered! Download my 30 Days of Done-for-You Social Media Prompts to save time and stay consistent.
If you found this post helpful, share it with a friend who’s also building their brand. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Side-HustlHER Podcast for more actionable tips and strategies. Let’s keep this conversation going on Instagram—find me at @carlidorlynn.
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