Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Manny Loyden. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Manny, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Success, to me, transcends mere professional achievements. It’s about embodying a mindset that prioritizes personal growth alongside the uplifting of those around me. I’ve come to understand that success isn’t just about reaching a particular goal; it’s about the continuous pursuit of improvement and the meaningful connections forged along the way.

In my journey, I’ve witnessed how authenticity and genuine care can create ripple effects within a community. Initially stepping into the realm of HR advisory with uncertainty, I decided to immerse myself fully in local events and initiatives. Instead of focusing solely on my own advancement, I made it a point to offer value and energize those around me. This commitment to building genuine connections, whether through face-to-face interactions or online platforms like LinkedIn, has been transformative.

Over the span of three years, this approach has yielded tangible outcomes, such as securing board positions and invitations to influential committees like DisruptHR AZ. However, the most significant rewards have been the authentic relationships and friendships cultivated along the way. These connections, rooted in mutual respect and support, have enriched both my professional endeavors and personal growth.

Success, therefore, is not just about individual accomplishments but also about the positive impact we can have on others’ lives. By embracing a mindset of continuous improvement and genuine care for those around us, we create a ripple effect of empowerment and growth that extends far beyond ourselves.

Manny, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Picture this: I’m that HR consultant who’s not just about business and being a true client advocate, but about embracing diverse perspectives and celebrating cultural richness. My journey into this industry has been shaped by my Colombian roots and my journey from Cartagena to the United States (specifically AZ) at the ripe age of 7. It wasn’t just a physical move; it was a journey of self-discovery, navigating different cultures, and overcoming identity crises along the way as a Colombian native in a new culture.

Growing up in a diverse family and straddling two worlds taught me invaluable life lessons—lessons that have become the cornerstone of my personal brand and the way I do business. See, I understand firsthand the power of authenticity and the importance of embracing one’s true self, regardless of cultural background or upbringing.

So, when it comes to my approach to HR consultancy, it’s not just about solving problems; it’s about honoring individual identities, fostering inclusivity, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. Whether you’re a startup in need of HRIS guidance or a multinational corporation looking to reshape your company culture, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my Colombian heritage and American upbringing.

But what truly sets me apart? It’s not just my expertise or track record; it’s the way I infuse every interaction with warmth, empathy, and a deep understanding of what it means to navigate multiple cultures. I’m not just here to do business; I’m here to build bridges, forge connections, and celebrate the beautiful tapestry of humanity.

If looking for more than just another consultant—if you want someone who understands your unique journey and is committed to helping you thrive in a multicultural world—then look no further. Let’s connect, let’s collaborate, and let’s create a future where diversity isn’t just embraced; it’s celebrated.

Porque cuando nos unimos en autenticidad, todo es posible.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

In setting myself apart in the market, I leverage my personal brand on LinkedIn by authentically sharing insights and values shaped by my Colombian roots and American upbringing. Through engaging content and meaningful interactions, I establish myself as a thought leader who values diversity, inclusivity, and personal growth.

Additionally, my omnipresence in the community through volunteer work in HR associations and boards demonstrates my commitment to giving back and actively contributing to the profession. By immersing myself fully in local events and initiatives, I not only offer value but also build genuine connections with others who share my passion for HR and cultural richness.

These authentic community relationships, cultivated through my genuine care and support, extend beyond professional interactions into meaningful friendships. By prioritizing personal connections and investing in the well-being of others, I create a ripple effect of empowerment and growth that sets me apart as more than just a consultant but as a trusted ally and friend in the HR community.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Absolutely! Building my audience on social media has been a journey rooted in authenticity, networking, and consistent engagement.

It all started with leveraging networking in person, where I immersed myself fully in local HR events and initiatives. Through authentic conversations and genuine connections, I built relationships that extended beyond the events themselves. These connections served as the foundation for expanding my reach and building credibility within the HR community.

Simultaneously, I focused on self-branding on LinkedIn by sharing valuable insights, personal experiences, and industry knowledge. Consistent posting allowed me to stay top-of-mind with my audience and showcase my expertise in HR consultancy. I made sure each post reflected my authentic voice and values, resonating with my target audience on a deeper level.

Over time, these efforts paid off as I saw my LinkedIn following grow steadily to nearly 10,000 followers. The key was not just in the numbers but in the quality of engagement. I fostered meaningful interactions with my audience, responding to comments, initiating discussions, and providing valuable content that addressed their pain points and interests.

And that brings me to a crucial point: when it comes to building a presence on LinkedIn, many people make the mistake of focusing solely on business or promoting their products and services. However, what truly resonates with your community is authenticity and genuine connection.

Rather than bombarding your audience with sales pitches or product promotions, focus on sharing insights, experiences, and personal stories that allow people to learn about you as an individual. Your community wants to see the real you, learn from your journey, and connect authentically with you—not just your product or service.

By sharing valuable content that reflects your personality, values, and interests, you create a deeper connection with your audience. Whether it’s sharing lessons learned, discussing industry trends, or showcasing your passion for a particular topic, be genuine and relatable in your posts.

Remember, people connect with people, not products. So, prioritize building genuine relationships and adding value to your audience’s lives through authenticity and meaningful engagement on LinkedIn.

• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/manny-loyden

Image Credits

Credit DisruptHR Phoenix for photos