Steve Ramona Of Anemos On How to Build Your Brand as an Executive and Why it Matters
…Serving before selling — Always when you meet people think about how you can serve them not sell. I was on a call and a young man asked if I could mentor him. I did for an hour. Weeks later he sent me a referral that signed up for my program. Served first then had a sale…
In today’s competitive landscape, building a strong personal brand is essential for executives looking to establish their credibility, attract opportunities, and make a lasting impact in their industries. A well-defined brand can open doors, create trust, and help leaders connect more effectively with their audiences. But how do you build a brand as an executive, and why is it so crucial in today’s market? As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Steve Ramona.
Steve Ramona, the host of the Pantheon Alliance Mastermind, has a current membership of over 55 — millionaires and billionaires. Founder of the #1 Ranked Small Business Marketing Podcast with thousands of followers. He is a super-connector to connect people to build partnerships and joint ventures.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive in, our readers would love to learn a bit more about you. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory and how you grew up?
My Dad was a contractor for 4 years. He launched a very successful company he ran for 40 years. I learned the power of owning a company and how I can control my own life and make money as well.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
I met a gentleman 5 years ago named Tony who I had a great meeting with. He made over 250 million dollars the year before. I asked what his secret sauce is and he said, “ I serve all people everyday and I also ask/receive from people. He taught me you need to not only be of service but be that person to ask for something after giving gifts to people. Once I learned this my income tripled quickly.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
My Dad and my Cousin Jeff were my early mentors. Dad taught me to be fair with everyone and do not recreate the wheel. If someone is doing something good, hire them instead of trying to do it yourself. My cousin taught me all about service. How important in business is to be of service and NOT when to be of service to people. Powerful lesson I use today.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
ABL — Always Be Listening. This is a skill EVERYONE should master. This will build on so many ways you can be successful. How can you serve if you do not listen? How can you grow? How can you do referrals?
You are a successful business leader. Which three-character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
The three I think of is Listening, Asking, and Giving. One great story was meeting a billionaire and having a business discussion with him. We talked about giving me 100 million for my company. As I listened, I asked for the money as I learned he loves people with a larger network, like I have. He did give me the money and I gave him my network.
Ok super. Let’s now shift to the main part of our discussion. Why does building a brand as an executive matter? What are some specific outcomes you’ve seen from taking time to build a strong brand?
My podcast has become my brand. It shows people that when they meet with me that I am going to always service them by bringing them value. This alone has built my brand to where I received referrals daily that grows my business and podcast. We are all in the people business and your brand is tied to how you treat people. Serving people to me is the ultimate way to build your quality brand.
One of the most important factors in building a brand is authenticity. Can you share a story of how using an authentic voice has been effective in connecting with others?
Authenticity is vital for a brand. This is what carries on and on with your business and success. One your not, brand gets blown up and no one will work with you. I met a gentleman one day in a 1 on 1 meeting. He asked if I can help him with his business. After 45 minutes, he said “Wow I have learned so much, how come your not charging me? I said because I love working with people to see them grow.” He said “No one could be more authentic than that!
Can you give an example of a strategic step an executive has used to differentiate themselves in a crowded market? What advice would you give to others looking to do the same?
Go one step above what people expect you to do. One example is my podcast. Most people after they are on a podcast have to wait weeks before it goes out to the world. I thought how can I be different. So, I record a Podcast and have it out to the world with in 48 hours. So many people thank me for one little step which has brought me so much in ROI.
Here is the main question for our discussion. Based on your experience and success, can you please share “Five Things You Need To Know To Successfully Build Your Brand As An Executive”? (Please share a story or an example, for each.)
1 . Listen — I was in a meeting and heard what someone was saying they needed. I provided 2 intros which catapulted their business with weeks.
2 . Be Genuine — One time some one asked if I could do something for their business. I said no but here is a great company that can help you. They were so happy they sent me 2 referrals weeks later.
3 . Serving before selling — Always when you meet people think about how you can serve them not sell. I was on a call and a young man asked if I could mentor him. I did for an hour. Weeks later he sent me a referral that signed up for my program. Served first then had a sale.
4 . Transformational not Transactional — I saw a post from someone who needed help. I reached out and gave them some resources and intros to transform their business. I did not make money, but my Brand did receive a huge uplift
5 . Say NO — We are always thinking we have to say yes all the time when building our brand. I had to say no to someone who wanted to work with me. It was not a good fit for me. So I went and found them someone else who was a better fit and everyone wins.
What’s one of the most surprising things you’ve learned about building an executive brand through your experience? Can you share a story that illustrates this lesson?
People respect you when you say no to them. They see that I am being genuine and not forcing anything. I had one coach who I said no to and explained why. He was happy to hear my honesty. I then sent him 2 intros for his business.
How do you measure the success of brand-building efforts, both internally within your company and externally in your industry?
Results come from the growth of your network. Your Network is your Net Worth. We are all in a people business. More people that know your brand, the more people can share your brand.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)
I would love to talk to Warren Buffett. He knows how to over come failure and still able to build his brand to be one of the richest people in the world. I want that brand tied to me 😊
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Thank you so much for joining us. This was very inspirational, and we wish you continued success in your important work.
