Marketing strategies assume one size fits all. We’re told that we must network, build referrals, provide items of interest to the media, write newsletters, blog, give presentations, and so on.
News Flash! It doesn’t matter if we know what we’re supposed to do if we don’t like doing it. And not tending to marketing tasks that we’re told are critical can make us feel inept. This can quickly spiral into doing nothing at all.
For example, there’s no point in telling me to get out to as many “meet and greet” events as my poor little body can manage. I’d rather have a root canal than walk around a room full of strangers pretending I’m thrilled to be there.
On the other hand, I know there are others of you who would prefer to schmooze than spend hours at a computer grinding out a newsletter.
Here’s the trick. The #1 thing you can do to jump start your marketing is to make a plan that takes into account your personality.
If you’re introverted, like me, put more energy into newsletters, blogs, and social media. And if you’re an educator at heart, meeting potential clients through workshops and presentations can be satisfying.
If you’re extroverted, design a plan that’s people oriented. Networking events, professional groups, trade shows, and conferences will get you energized.
Conclusion. It’s useful to broaden your range of marketing activities but first build on your strengths. It’ll give you more confidence. Then bit by bit you can begin to add a few marketing tasks that you find more challenging.
Two of my previous articles that you might find helpful are:
Photo by David Campbell
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Thank you, Dan for this bit of sound advice. While I think it’s good (and important) to stretch ourselves to learn new marketing techniques, continually flogging ourselves mentally and/or emotional over not networking the “correct” way is unproductive. And we need to give ourselves permission to run with what works for us as individuals. Sometimes I forget this and thrash about doing things I hate just because someone tells me I “need” to market in a particular way. Bottom line? Trust yourself.
@Amber Lea Starfire. Thanks, Amber. I agree with what you say. It’s also important to operate from our strengths and then push the envelope into areas where we’re less comfortable.
I”ve just undertaken a writing workshop and the resopnse has been phenomenol.no clients yet, but what it’s done for my self-confidence is amazing. I’m off to line up one or two other lcasses at a local senior center and an assisted living facility nearby. I’ve got materials in hand to provide directors, and referrals from the director I”ve already dealt with. Thanks for confirming what I had planned!
@Marjorie Turner Hollman. Congratulations, Marjorie! It sounds as if you’re on the right track.