6 Hacks to Market Yourself Online Without Pandering
There is an art to marketing yourself online. It’s essential to create an accurate reflection of who you are and what you represent while appealing to your audience. However, it is possible (and easy) to appeal to your audience in a way that strays from your genuine brand and who you truly are.
According to an article by Forbes, “The secret behind building a personal brand that sells but doesn’t make you feel like a sell-out is quite simple: find a way to connect with your audience, and do it with integrity.” So, how does one market themselves online while being true to their identity? It’s easier than you might think. Below, I’ve included some key hacks to market yourself online without pandering.
Aim for expression of yourself, not promotion of yourself.
People need to know who you are. The best way is through communicating the basics. Explain why you’re in business, why you do what you do, and why you believe what you believe. What are you passionate about, and how does that affect your overall self?
Create a website
A website is a crucial role in communicating who you are and what you have to offer. Consider it your online resume and portfolio. Randall Isenberg, the founding partner of the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, recommends dedicating a section of your website to explain who you are and what you are passionate about. You could even consider adding a short video clip.
Be sure your website is professional, accurately reflects who you are, and is updated regularly. There is nothing as unappealing as a messy website or outdated information. Include the website address in all of your communications- business cards, email signatures, resumes, etc.
Create a blog- and write in it regularly
If your blog is separate from your website, be sure to have it linked. Having publications online makes it easier for people to find you based on your passions, opinions, and interests. Not only does this help gain a following, but people get to see the real you.
Participate in online chats or blogs
Whatever you are passionate about, there is an online forum for it. Find where other like-minded individuals express their opinions and participate in the discussions. Consider adding a plug for your blog or website when you post a comment. This will help get your name out there and help develop connections with others.
Create a Facebook page
A whopping 1.56 billion people log into Facebook daily, while there are 2.38 billion monthly active users. Creating a Facebook page and posting to it regularly is an easy way to gather followers and gain attention, as well as communicate who you are and what you have to offer.
Consider guest blogging
Guest blogging is when an individual writes content for a similar person’s blog. Not only does it contribute to the other person’s site, but it reaches individuals who may have never heard of you before. It is an excellent way to market who you are and what you do to an audience that is already interested in the types of things you specialize in.