How to sell yourself? In the world of marketing, we have been conditioned to believe that understanding our clients is the key to success. We are taught to create customer avatars and customer personas to tailor our marketing strategies accordingly. However, in the realm of humane marketing, we propose a different approach. We suggest that the journey to successful marketing begins with self-awareness and self-acceptance. In this article, we will explore the concept of Marketing Like We’re Human and provide a three-step process to help you effectively sell yourself by embracing your authentic self.
Challenging Traditional Marketing
Traditional marketing strategies often revolve around understanding the client first and tailoring the marketing message accordingly. However, here at Humane Marketing, we believe that true resonance with our clients comes from a deep understanding of ourselves. By embracing our authentic selves, we create genuine connections and create long-term relationships with our clients.
Rumble – Discover Your True Self Before You Sell Yourself
Before we can effectively sell ourselves, we need to embark on a journey of self-discovery. This phase, which in the ‘Marketing Like We’re Human’ book I refer to as “Rumble,” involves exploring our own stories, values, and worldview. Once we have a profound understanding of who we are, we then resonate with and attract clients who are genuinely aligned with our authentic selves.
There are different ways to self-discovery. One of the simplest ways to get started is by taking one or several personality assessments. Of course, they are only an indication, it’s always recommended to delve deeper and if possible work with a coach, healer or even therapist.
- Find out your personality type by taking the free MBTI test.
- Learn how to apply Human Design in business
- Learn more about your astrological sign.
- Find your Character Strengths with the VIA Survey.
- Discover your Sparketype.
Rise – Embrace What Makes You Unique in order to Sell Yourself
Having discovered your true self, it’s time to embrace your uniqueness and rise above the noise and expectations of traditional marketing. This phase encourages you to use your distinctive superpowers and market in a way that aligns with your values and worldview.
Also read this blog post WHAT MAKES ME UNIQUE
Break Free from Conformity
In the RISING phase of the Marketing Like We’re Human book, it’s time to give yourself permission to break free from conformity. Embrace the qualities that make you different and use them to your advantage. Authenticity and uniqueness are what set you apart from the competition and attract like-minded individuals.
Unleash Your Unique Marketing Superpowers
Each of us possesses unique strengths and talents. Embracing these superpowers allows you to create compelling marketing messages that genuinely resonate with your audience. Infuse your marketing materials with your authentic self, and watch as you attract clients who appreciate your distinct approach.
Join Like-Minded Communities
Rising in human marketing is more fun when you surround yourself with like-minded partners. Seek out communities, such as our Humane Marketing Circle, where individuals share your intention of using business for good and making a positive impact. Collaboration and support from a network of like-minded professionals enhance your marketing efforts.
Resonate – Connect with Your Ideal Clients
The final phase in the Marketing Like We’re Human book is about resonating with your ideal clients, rather than chasing after them. By deeply understanding your clients and applying empathy in your communication, you can build meaningful connections that go beyond mere transactions.
Shifting from Problem-Chasing to Solution-Creation
In traditional marketing, the focus is often on identifying problems and offering solutions. However, in humane marketing, we encourage you to first create a solution that aligns with your passion and values. By communicating this solution effectively, you attract clients who resonate with your beliefs and guiding principles.
Understanding Your Clients on a Deeper Level
To truly connect with your ideal clients, it’s essential to understand their thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. Dive deep into their needs, desires, and pain points. By demonstrating empathy and a shared value system, you can establish a profound connection and position yourself as the ideal solution provider.
Apply Empathy in Communication
Human marketing thrives on empathy. Tailor your communication to address your clients’ concerns genuinely and authentically. Show them that you understand their struggles and aspirations. By infusing empathy into your marketing messages, you create a sense of trust and rapport with your audience.
Read this post about Empathy in Marketing – a Strategy for Highly Sensitive People
Build a Value-Based Connection
Human(e) marketing is all about attracting clients who share your values and worldview. By bringing more of yourself into your marketing, you establish a value-based connection with your audience.
Read this post about ‘Authentic Relationships in Business’
Conclusion on How To Sell Yourself
Traditional marketing approaches often prioritize understanding the customer above all else.
But the customer is no longer king. He doesn’t want to be.
And yes, people still buy from people. But today they buy from people who stand for something!
By going through the phases of rumble, rise, and resonate, you can create marketing strategies that sell yourself from a place of authenticity and true self and therefore establish genuine connections and long-term relationships with clients who appreciate your uniqueness and share your values.
Other Resources You Might Enjoy
Blog post: Self Promotion for Introverts: How to Position Yourself Like a Human Expert (with humility and integrity) LINK
Blog post: Fake It Till You Make It
Blog post: Empathy in Marketing
Blog post: How to Find Your Authentic Self (as an Entrepreneur)
Blog post: Authentic Relationships
Blog post: The Humane Marketing Glossary: Humane Marketing Words we love
Podcasts
Podcast episode: ‘Self Doubt No More! How to Build Confidence’
Podcast episode: Relationship Building: Nurture these 10 Vital Business Relationships
Downloads
- Manifesto: The Humane Business Manifesto (no opt-in)
- Creed: The Humane Marketing Creed (no opt-in)
- The One-Page Marketing Plan (email opt-in)
Books
- Marketing Like We’re Human, Sarah Santacroce
- Selling Like We’re Human, Sarah Santacroce
Community
The Humane Marketing Circle is our community of Humane Marketers.
