I was discussing with a group of coaches recently how many of us find it really challenging promoting ourselves online. Some of these coaches are experienced and excellent at what they do, but like me, when it comes to marketing, we’re novices and find it deeply uncomfortable at times.
One reason we don’t like self-promotion or promoting our own work or business is because of fear of judgement. I’d prefer not to be judged as salesy or sleazy or desperate, but that’s the risk you take when you put yourself out there. You have absolutely no control over how it’s received. And let’s face it, we will be judged, because that is what the human mind does, and it’s brilliant at it!
Then there’s the challenge of messages that we received in childhood lingering around, like “Don’t stick your neck out” and “You should be seen and not heard”. This can lead to having a strong inner critic as adults. Mine is often yelling when I go to post on social media, “Don’t do it! You’ll be annihilated, or at the very least, ostracised”.
And yet, here I am once again. Some might call it ‘courageous.’ Others might call it ‘stupid.’ It really doesn’t matter. What matters is authentic expression, and doing our best to create helpful, quality content to share, and then overcoming those inner voices holding us back. And yes, having a bit of courage to hit that post button and deal with the aftermath (inner critic attack anyone?).
What makes posting online worth it?
It’s meeting like-minded people and inspiring each other. I’ve met and worked with some wonderful coaches, collaborators, and clients online because we are more out there when it comes to our online presence. We would not have met or worked together otherwise and would have missed out.
This is why I love coaching around visibility and online marketing, especially for women. Some of us need encouragement to get out there and go for it. I certainly get a lot of help and support with it, and I love giving this support to my clients. The rewards shouldn’t just be for extroverts. Those of us who are shyer and more introverted deserve to nurture great relationships and create business opportunities online too.
It can be helpful to realise we are not alone in this, and even if we are shaking in our boots, we can still hit that post button!
What about you? Do you find it easy or challenging? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
