Are you for real?
How to stand out from the crowd by creating an authentic voice for your business.
 This is going to be a year of growth for many. It's also a year that more small businesses will decide to finally take the plunge and start using email and social media marketing.
So there's going to be a lot of noise out there.
How can you make sure you're heard above the din? By doing something that no one else can do. And that's simply being you. People want to do business with a someone they can relate to.
How do you find that common ground with your audience? By letting them know what you and your company are all about. This goes beyond stating your unique value proposition. This goes to the core of why you started the business in the first place.
And it's not just all about your business. Let your own personality shine through. Share your passions, share some of your quirks even. Don't be afraid to stand out, that's actually what you're going for. What if someone doesn't like the real you? Let's face it. Letting the real you show through comes with some risk. Not everyone may "get" you. But that's OK. Because the ones that do will be enthusiastic and engaged with you and your brand. These are the people that really want what you have to offer. Without taking this risk, you may not ruffle any feathers, but you also won't ignite any fires.
Here are some ways to be more real The very first step is to visualize your audience. Pretend you're meeting face to face, over coffee. How would you help him understand what you're company is all about, what you're all about?
Share your quirks: Let people in on some of your quirks. If you have a weird sense of humor, let it loose! Not everyone may get it, but those that do will come back for more. They may even share it with their network.
Share your experience: Most clients I meet with for the first time are at a loss at to where to start with their email marketing and social media. They feel they don't have anything to say. Then I ask them to share some stories of how they've helped some clients, things they've learned from their years in business, even some mistakes they've made. Before you know it, I have enough material to write half a dozen newsletters and posts.
Share your passions: Let people know what matters to you as a business and as a person. If you love animals, don't be afraid to gush a little about your pet yorkie, or the strays you've
helped to rescue. If you're into a sport or have a favorite team, let your colors show. If you're a foodie, give us your favorite recipe. And include a picture along with it, it helps to make it more personable.
The main takeaway is this: Share some of yourself with your audience. It will help you forge a strong bond with your subscribers, fans and followers.
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