Your authentic self. Hmm. What does that mean to you, and do you know your authentic self? As a copywriter, blogger, resume writer, and overall content creator, I write about people, their passions, and their businesses. I love what I do and the people I meet. Often, it does not feel like a job.
Capturing your ‘authentic self’ can be challenging, but that is what I am here to help you do.
What does it mean to be authentic?
Authentic can be defined as being true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character, not false or imitation. (Merriam-Webster) The definition and subsequent mindset of authenticity are paramount when writing about your business, creating your resume, or preparing a speech, yet we find it so hard to do. (Me included)
Genuineness allows you to convey yourself consistently on your website, in a blog, on your resume, or in person.
The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth
Each time I do a resume, I have a little chat with my client about authenticity and disclosing the truth. As a hiring manager for a large company, I remember working with my HR manager and background checking. An applicant should have been more truthful about the college experience. They never graduated. When I asked them, they said they were embarrassed and proceeded to tell me why. It was understandable and could have been explained in the interview process.
Your website content represents you and your brand 24/7/365. It speaks for you and conveys your knowledge, passion, and commitment to your clients. It needs to be you, not what you think you should be or offer, just you. In many cases, especially for small businesses and start-ups, what you are selling is you. You as a coach, a craftsman, or a doctor. They are ‘buying you.’ My job is to understand and convey to you to write best the content that a visitor to your website will read and think, “that is whom I want to work with.”
Love. Nothing is truer or more authentic
I love the thought of love. I was blessed to be married for 32 years, and my soul found its match on that first date. Chip is gone now, almost two years, and that love has not waned. I draw from those feeling when I write wedding vows, love letters, or wedding speeches. My friends ask how I can do it and why people share their intimate thoughts and feelings with me. Well, I accept their trust and openness as the highest compliment. They need a little encouragement and support to speak about their love in front of their friends and family. Truth be told, I have not written one vow without one or both of us crying. What an honor.
Easier said than done!
True, but it is also not insurmountable. Is it okay to write about yourself? Yes! Here are some tricks and tools you can use as you find and embrace your authentic self.
- Ok, this is the pot calling the kettle black. I do not journal, but I blog. My Pasta on the Floor website is a journal of sorts. I have shared my life experiences and documented them for myself and my children. I hope it will be a reference for them as they grow, marry, and become parents. Life’s challenges are just that, a challenge, but they can be life-changing too.
- Yes, you can set up a blog very simply to share your passions for photography, cooking, or sharing wisdom. Business owners who blog enjoy increased SEO and customer engagement. Take a shot; you have nothing to lose.
- Resume and professional experience. Toot your horn a little; it is ok. Get in the habit of using LinkedIn and sharing customer wins or an article you wrote or join a LinkedIn group and give out some expertise.
Are you feeling better about your true self, or do you still need a little nudge?
That’s okay. I can assist as a sounding board for your next blog post or help you pen the perfect Maid of Honor speech. Please email me at karen@thevirtualcopywriter.com, or book a free 30-minute call to discuss your authenticity goals.
One of my clients speaks to and subscribes to the theory of true north. His company’s true north is about commitment and engagement with his clients. His passion is contagious, and his true north keeps him and his company on the path to delivering the best products and services. Working with him, his partner, and his team inspired me. I hope this blog inspired you too.
Karen
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