Be You, Be Seen! Branding Authenticity for Real Estate Success
Hey there! I’m Mariah Koehle, an active real estate agent and coach, passionate about helping you build and scale your business the modern way—by leveraging the power of social media. If you’re new here, welcome! I post weekly videos, so don’t forget to subscribe and tap the notification bell to stay updated.
Today, I want to dive into something that’s been on my mind: the power of authenticity and consistency in branding. Let me share a personal story that perfectly illustrates why showing up as your true self matters so much—not just online, but in real life too.
The Story: A Walk Through Salt Lake City Airport
Picture this: It’s a late travel day, and my family and I are trekking through the Salt Lake City airport (if you’ve been there, you know it’s a hike!). With four kids, we were navigating the chaos of baggage claim when I noticed a mom ahead of us, doing her best to manage her two tired kids and a mountain of luggage.
Her four-year-old was exhausted and begging to be carried, while her older daughter soldiered on. My “mom mode” and “teacher mode” instincts kicked in, and I started chatting with the little boy. I told him he was doing an amazing job and asked if he’d been on a fun trip.
Before I knew it, both kids were smiling and sharing stories about their adventures. The tears stopped, and we all made it to ground transportation in much better spirits.
A Surprising Connection
As we neared the end of our walk, I struck up a conversation with the mom to let her know she was doing a fantastic job. She looked at me and said, “I know you!”
Surprised, I asked how. She replied, “I’ve been following you on Instagram for years! You’re exactly the same in person as you are online.”
Her comment hit me hard—in the best way possible. She recognized me not just from my photos or videos, but because the way I show up online is consistent with who I am in real life. That moment reaffirmed the importance of being authentic and genuine in everything we do.
Why Authenticity Matters
Whether you’re running through an airport or meeting a client for the first time, your personal brand needs to reflect the real you. People want to connect with someone relatable and trustworthy.
Here’s the thing: Your story matters.
When I first started my business, I didn’t think there was anything extraordinary about me. I’m a mom, a wife, and a real estate agent. But over time, I’ve learned that my experiences, challenges, and triumphs resonate with others.
How to Find Your Authentic Self
If you’re struggling to figure out your unique brand identity, here’s an exercise for you:
Make a List. Write down your experiences, challenges, hobbies, interests, and places you’ve lived or traveled to.
Highlight Connections. Look for patterns or things that resonate deeply with you.
Craft Your Story. Use these elements to shape a narrative that’s true to you.
Remember, everyone has a story to tell, and your authenticity will attract the right clients, friends, and opportunities.
The Takeaway
Consistency and authenticity aren’t just buzzwords—they’re essential for building trust and creating meaningful connections. You never know who might recognize you at the airport, on a soccer field, or at an open house.
By showing up as your genuine self, you’ll not only stand out but also attract the people and opportunities meant for you.
So, how are you going to start showing up authentically in your business? Let me know in the comments or reach out—I’d love to hear your story and help you on your journey.
