Individual branding?

I am an idiot re: branding of individuals. I guess it is someone declaring themselves worthy of publicity, and willing to put up with it, even want and pray for it. Are these people who have a business plan and this their 1st step to stardom and the BIG $$, such as the Kardashian family or other commercial folks? Do they start with a product, or just trade on their new/old found celebrity, or their narcissism? How does that work, and who wants the $$ rather than their privacy?

I would never do it, and I shy away from those who seek it. Pffft.
In the olden days I paid AT&T to have my number unlisted, to keep my privacy.

 

I think there are (at least) two types to consider:

1) The actual publicity seekers who either attempt to or actually do make a living from marketing their personal brand (e.g. Kim Kardashian and the kids from Jersey Shore).

2) Actors (and other popular figures) that fall into the marketing maw by default. They have a skill. They have proven said skill can get them regular work. That work has lead to the kind of projects that brings fame. In order to keep working, especially at a certain level, they must craft an image and maintain a brand. Even folks like Jennifer Lawrence, who appears to be 'genuine', must bow to the maw that is marketing for even if they do not personally partake, their agents and managers will make it so. It's the nature of the beast that we call entertainment.

All this to say, I find that I am both drawn to and repulsed by the personal brand thing. On a smaller level, have you ever considered that your Nick, girldetective and associated avatars, is a brand? It's a way you present yourself to others so they see you the way in which you wish to be seen. In many ways, branding is simply that.

 

The thing that get me is celebrity perfume. Have you ever any that were actually good? And people fall for that crap.