How to Land Clients With Your Winning Personality
I've been reflecting on my journey of self-expression, and it all started with skits during summer bible school. I discovered my love for performing on stage and carried that passion with me throughout my youth. From dinner theaters with my youth group to singing in concert choir and participating in high school musicals, I always enjoyed immersing myself in different roles.
As I entered the business world, I continued to perform in a different way. I believed that professionalism meant keeping my personal life separate and presenting a buttoned-up, polished version of myself. I thought that showing too much of my quirky, authentic self would be seen as off-putting because it wasn't the norm at the time. Back then, landlines and fax machines were still prevalent, and there was a certain level of formality that permeated the business landscape.
But times have changed, especially with the accelerated shift brought about by the pandemic. Who can forget the viral moments of BBC Dad and Zoom Cat Lawyer? (If you haven't seen them, I highly recommend giving them a quick Google search for a good laugh.)
However, even before these viral sensations, I had already begun practicing a new role in my business: being Lisa Mullis. The "gal" who proudly wears T-shirts that say "Metaphors Be With You" while delivering copywriting workshops and places a unicorn emoji at the top of her LinkedIn profile. The one who fearlessly stands up against the grift that can occur in online business, or advocates for long-winded sentences. And yes, the person who starts client cohort calls with guided grounding breaths.
Now, compared to some of my colleagues, I don't divulge many personal details in public settings like emails or social media channels. Sometimes, I wonder if I'm missing opportunities to connect further with potential clients. But you know what? That's okay.
Because here's the thing: being yourself in your business isn't about airing your dirty laundry or oversharing personal details.
It's about letting your authentic personality shine through. It's about being unapologetically you. When you show up as your real self, the people you're meant to work with will naturally be drawn to you. You don't need a theater background or a love for being on stage to embrace authenticity. You don't even have to let your hair down if you don't want to.
It's about infusing your communications with the beautiful uniqueness that is you. When you show up as your true self, you'll experience a greater sense of ease, confidence, and engagement. You'll stand out amidst the sea of sameness because nobody else does business quite like you do. Embracing your authenticity allows you to connect with clients who resonate with your values, your style, and your approach.
So, don't be afraid to be yourself in your business. Let your personality shine. Infuse your communications with that special something that makes you who you are. Remember, there are countless ways to showcase the lovely uniqueness that is YOU!
Keep being true to yourself, and watch as your business flourishes.
Looking for how to stay consistent in your brand messaging AND stay authentic? Check out Profit From Your Personality, a toolkit for attracting and landing clients you’ll love working with. This bundle of bundles is a collaboration between myself, Danielle Hughes of More Than Words and marketing mentor Ilise Benun.