BRANDING CRIME #11

The Self-Centered branding story

“This isn’t about you. No, really, it’s not.”

How it kills

  • Mistakes brand story for autobiography.
  • Focuses entirely on the company’s journey instead of the customer’s transformation.
  • Reads like a self-congratulatory Oscar speech instead of something the audience actually cares about.

What Works

  • Your customer is the protagonist, not your brand. You’re the mentor, the guide, the wise old wizard—not the hero.
  • People don’t love change, but they do love new perspectives. Show them a way to see themselves or the world differently.
  • The best brand stories make the audience think, ”Oh, this is exactly what I needed”, not ”Wow, they really love talking about themselves.” If in doubt, count the number of times you say “we” versus “you.” If it’s looking less like a helpful guide and more like a memoir, reconsider.

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