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Building an audience takes time.

No one is watching…

Ok, some people are watching, but that's not my point. If you post regularly on social media but you aren't seeing a lot of traction, it's easy to think...

"They're all laughing at me. They're all mocking me because no one cares about my content."

Makes you feel like this, right? 👇️ 

Good news is, you’re right that no one cares - but in a good way. If you add value for even a handful of people, those people will be thankful. And anyone who you aren't posting for won't even notice.

This time period where you’re building your audience gives you the space to take a step back, test out new approaches, assess what content works and what doesn’t, all in a safe space.

Then, as you start to see the engagement rise, you can narrow down your content based on what works, and eliminate what doesn’t.

As you start to see the engagement rise, you can narrow down your content based on what works, and eliminate what doesn’t.

Get comfortable being uncomfortable

Get comfortable with putting your opinion on the line…online. If you’re afraid of what others will think or that they’ll say your wrong, know this…

Everyone gets told they’re wrong. Everyone deals with haters. The people who succeed are the ones who tune those folks out and keep on rolling.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to get passed the discomfort and starting having fun growing your personal brand.

• Post an image (weekly) - Make sure it’s one of you in your element. Show people who you are, and don’t worry about it being perfect. Just post it along with your post to show the real you!

• Publish a video - Even better than an image, record yourself offering advice on a topic of choice. Let people hear your voice. Showcase your personality.

• Introduce yourself to big accounts - Say hello. Mention big accounts in your posts, people who you think might be out of reach. Who are 10 of the top minds in your field? Drop them a line in a post, reply to their content, but never ask for anything.

• Realize we’re all human - Everyone starts somewhere. Realize that everyone struggled at first (on different levels) with promoting themselves online. You are starting now, but keep in mind you’re human and you’ll get better the more you do something.

• Engage in conversations - Set aside 30-60 minutes each day to add your opinion to people’s posts and to post your opinions through your own posts.

Kick imposter syndrome to the curb

One of the biggest hurdles people I talk to face when considering focusing on building their personal brand is…Imposter Syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is real. If you’re feeling like you aren’t good enough, you’re wrong!

Social media shows us a glimpse of the best moments of people’s lives and careers. It FAILS to show us the blood, sweat, and tears it took to achieve those moments.

• Everyone fails

• Everyone struggles

• You are not alone

• You are more than good enough

Just a quick reminder as you continue on your personal journey. Refer back to this note when imposter syndrome hits and kick it to the curb. Even the most successful people in the world deal with it from time to time.

Do your thing. Keep being amazing. Believe in yourself.

Who else should you check out? Glad you asked!

Want some more marketing, business, and life advice? This edition’s featured newsletter letter is… 🔽

My favorite things…

I believe in constant learning. We are never done growing. As you work to build your personal brand, I want to help by sharing some of my favorite resources. Click any of the resources below to learn and grow (and no…these are NOT affiliate links - they are just helpful links to help you be amazing!).

A few great resources from here and there…

• HubSpot Academy - free resources, with certifications - social media, analytics, ads, content, and so much more (yes, I said “free”)

• Gaenzle Marketing - ok, I’m a little biased here…but there are lots of great articles on the site, from TONS of talented folks, so drop by and give it a read

• Blogging From Paradise - if you want to live the dream of turning your blog into a full-time gig, Ryan Biddulph is a guy you need to follow

Get Started Building Your Personal Brand

Personal branding is so important in growing your business, boosting your reach, and building your network. Inspired by my own personal branding journey, I wrote The Business of Branding You: Invest in Your Personal Brand, Grow Your Career, and Gain Influence.

The book contains insights and actionable advice from my own experience as well as examples from my colleagues and other industry professionals who serve as excellent examples of personal branding done the right way.

Have questions?

I’m an open book. If you have questions, want some feedback on your personal brand, or you need support in another way. Just drop me a line. You can reach me via email at [email protected], follow me on LinkedIn, or catch me over on X.

Let’s connect and grow together!

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