Building a Brand Story That Resonates

North Mondays Series: Episode 91

Have you ever thought about what really makes people remember a brand? I’m not talking about flashy logos or catchy taglines. I mean the kind of connection that leaves people saying, “This brand gets me.”

For me, it all comes down to one word: relationships.

I built BizDevWithNnanna around this belief. Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards—it’s about connecting on a deeper level, finding common ground, and building something meaningful. At my TED Talk with the students of the university of Ibadan, I shared this philosophy: relationships are the cornerstone of success. And the way to forge these relationships? Storytelling.

This week on North Mondays, we’re unpacking the art of purpose-driven storytelling. Together, we’ll explore why authentic narratives matter, identify common obstacles, and provide actionable steps to help you craft a brand story that doesn’t just sell but connects.

Let’s dive in.

Why Your Brand Story Matters

Every business has a story, but not every story resonates. The brands that thrive are the ones that build relationships through their narrative. A compelling story does more than describe your business—it connects.

For me, BizDevWithNnanna was born from my belief in the power of networking. It’s not just a platform; it’s a community where people learn how to foster meaningful connections. My TED Talk was a reflection of this. We’re not just selling ideas or products; we’re building bridges. And that’s what your brand story should do.

Here’s why your story is your most valuable asset:

1. Differentiation
   Your story is yours alone. Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” campaign understood this, swapping its iconic logo for people’s names and instantly turning a simple soda into a personal experience. Similarly, my TED Talk wasn’t about abstract ideas—it was about real people and real connections. When your story reflects your mission, it sets you apart.
2. Emotional Connection
   We make decisions with our hearts first and justify them with logic later. BTS’s Love Yourself  resonated because it spoke to something universal: the desire to be accepted. That’s why I built BizDevWithNnanna—to show that networking isn’t transactional; it’s emotional. It’s about being seen and heard.
3. Purpose-Driven Appeal
   Today’s consumers are tired of brands that exist solely for profit.  Fenty’s commitment to inclusivity isn’t just a marketing gimmick; it’s a movement. With BizDevWithNnanna, the purpose is clear: to help people grow by fostering relationships. That clarity is what turns a platform into a mission.
4. Memorability
   Facts and features fade, but stories stick. Content creator Salem King built CommYOUnity by sharing his unfiltered truths, making his platform a safe space for connection and growth. His message is simple but unforgettable.

Challenges in Crafting Authentic Narratives

Storytelling might seem natural, but building an authentic brand story takes effort. Here are some common hurdles:

1. Superficial Messaging
   Buzzwords and generic slogans fall flat. Authentic storytelling requires vulnerability. BizDevWithNnanna thrives because it’s not about flashy gimmicks—it’s about honest conversations and practical steps.
2. Aligning Story and Actions
   Your story must reflect your practices. BTS’s Love Yourself campaign worked because their advocacy for mental health wasn’t just lip service, it was woven into their music and actions. Similarly, every connection I promote through BizDevWithNnanna reflects my personal approach to networking.
3. Understanding Your Audience
   Coca-Cola’s  “Share a Coke”  succeeded because it tapped into something universal: the joy of being seen. At BizDevWithNnanna, I make it a point to understand my audience—their struggles, aspirations, and how networking can help them.
4. Balancing Simplicity and Depth
   A good story should be easy to grasp but profound enough to inspire. Fenty strikes this balance with its message of inclusivity. My TED Talk aimed to do the same: simplify the art of networking without losing its emotional depth.
5. Evolving Narratives
   Just as businesses grow, so must their stories. BTS has evolved from rebellious underdogs to global ambassadors for self-love, without losing their essence. Likewise, BizDevWithNnanna has grown into a space for strategic growth while staying true to its mission.

Steps to Build a Brand Story That Resonates

1. Define Your “Why”

Ask yourself: Why does your business exist beyond making money?

I created BizDevWithNnanna because I believe that relationships are the foundation of every success story. This purpose drives everything I do.

2. Know Your Audience

Who are you speaking to, and what do they care about?

 Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” worked because it tapped into something deeply personal. At BizDevWithNnanna, I focus on professionals who want to grow through relationships but don’t know where to start.

3. Be Authentic and Transparent

Share your journey—the highs, the lows, and the lessons.

In my TED Talk, I didn’t just share success stories; I talked about failures and what they taught me about building lasting connections.

4. Highlight Your Impact

Show how you make a difference in your customer’s lives.

 Salem King’s Commyounity empowers creators to embrace vulnerability. At BizDevWithNnanna, we empower people to see networking as more than a skill—it’s a mindset shift.

5. Use Visuals and Consistent Messaging

A story isn’t just told—it’s shown. Bring it to life with visuals and consistency across every platform.

BTS’s immersive campaigns pair music, videos, and fan interactions to create a holistic story that fans live and breathe.

6. Evolve with Your Business

As your business grows, let your story grow too.

 Fenty expanded from makeup to lingerie and sportswear while keeping inclusivity at its core. Similarly, BizDevWithNnanna has grown from a concept into a full-fledged platform for strategic relationship-building.

Key Takeaways

• Your brand story should answer: Who are you? Why do you exist? What difference do you make?
• Authenticity is essential—your actions must align with your narrative.
• Purpose-driven storytelling builds emotional connections and long-term loyalty.
• Simplicity and depth can coexist. Your story should be easy to grasp yet layered enough to inspire.
• Evolution is key. A static story risks losing relevance in a dynamic world.

Call-to-Action

What’s your brand’s story? This week, take a moment to reflect on your why. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your narrative, remember: a great story isn’t just told—it’s lived.

Challenge: Share your story with us! Use the hashtag #NorthMondays to join the conversation. Let’s build a community of brands that inspire, connect, and thrive.

Until next Monday—keep building, keep growing.

#NorthMondays #BizDevWithNnanna #BrandStorytelling #PurposeDrivenBusiness #Fenty #BTS #Commyounity #CocaCola #TEDxUI