Embracing Business Social Media: A Personal Journey

As someone immersed in marketing and communication for over 25 years, you might assume that self-promotion and social media come naturally. However, the truth is, shining the spotlight on myself (and my own business) has always felt like navigating uncharted waters. I confess – I've been more at ease sharing corporate stories or promoting others than putting myself in the spotlight, not just on social media but in the real world too. I love to raise others up and give them the spotlight they deserve, so why has it been so challenging for me to do the same for myself, and as a freelancer, what have I learned to improve my self-promotion?

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Comfort Zone Comforts:

For someone accustomed to sharing corporate narratives, steering the spotlight towards oneself can feel uncomfortable. There's a vulnerability in personal sharing that goes beyond the safety of corporate messaging. Despite having over 25 years of experience and being trusted with large projects and client interactions, imposter syndrome still raises its head. Building the confidence to be seen as the expert I am has been an ongoing journey

Striking the Right Balance:

Finding the right balance between professional and personal content is a tightrope walk. How do you let your authentic self shine without overshadowing your professional persona? It's a delicate art that requires constant adjustment.

The Time Factor:

In the hustle of marketing responsibilities, finding time to curate personal content amidst client interactions can be an added challenge. As a freelancer, juggling all aspects alone, from planning to design and actual promotion, requires strategic time management. The lack of a dedicated team can be both a hurdle and an opportunity for learning new skills.

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So what have I learnt so far..

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Start with Small Solos:

Dipping my toes into personal sharing with small anecdotes or insights has been a helpful approach. Sharing a recent professional triumph, a lesson learned, or even a glimpse into my workspace allows for a gradual and authentic introduction. The key is not to attempt to 'boil the ocean' by creating a slick, multifaceted campaign from the start

Learn from others:

Observing individuals who seamlessly blend their personal and professional worlds on social media has been insightful. Seeking inspiration from them and learning tips has helped, although it's essential not to feel disheartened if I don't replicate their approach entirely.

Use Authenticity:

Embracing my authentic self has been a crucial lesson. Sharing not just polished highlights but also raw, unfiltered moments resonates with audiences, making my digital presence more relatable and engaging.

?Create a Tempo:

Establishing a posting tempo that aligns with my comfort and capacity has been key. It doesn't have to be daily; even a weekly or bi-weekly rhythm can create consistency. Finding a tempo that suits my style and maintains my sanity is essential.

Engage with Your Audience:

Understanding that social media is a two-way conversation has been transformative. Actively responding to comments, participating in discussions, and acknowledging shared content fosters a sense of community and connection.

Experiment and Adapt:

Recognizing that social media is an ever-evolving landscape, I've embraced experimentation with different types of content. Being open to adapting my approach based on audience feedback and platform dynamics has been crucial.

In this personal journey of embracing business social media, I've discovered that authenticity, gradual steps, and a willingness to learn and adapt are paramount. While challenges persist, the benefits of connecting with a broader audience and showcasing my expertise make the effort worthwhile. As a freelancer navigating these digital waters, self-promotion becomes more harmonious with each attempt.

So, to my fellow social promoters who are hesitant about stepping into the personal spotlight, remember: it's not about a flawless performance but the genuine connection you create with your audience.

And we all await your unique contribution. :-)

#socialmedia #marketing #communication #freenlancer #mrx R.R Marketing