Let’s be honest. It can be extremely difficult to find your ‘voice‘ when you first start out blogging or using social media – especially when you’re representing a new business or brand.
By voice, I referring to the personality you convey.
Contrary to a common held belief, your online voice need not be overly professional, straight-laced or constricted.
What it should be at all times is authentic.
Think of ‘authenticity’ as another great marketing tool you can use to connect with people and earn their trust.
Simply put, authenticity means putting a bit of yourself out there, so people can see who you are.
How much you put out there is up to you, as everyone’s comfort levels vary when it comes to putting personal information up online.
Think of the great speakers or writers of our time, they’re dynamic, authentic and their personality shines through.
So, how can you find your voice for online conversations?
Use your Personal Experience
Trying to compete in a market where you don’t have personal experience puts you at a distinct disadvantage against those more experienced. So speak from your experience.
Don’t try to sound as if you’re more experienced than you are, but also don’t discount your successes.
It’s common to become more vocal and animated when we talk about something we’re passionate about, so use that passion and experience for your business in your online conversations.
It’s ok to show emotion
If something in the state of your industry is making you angry, speak up.
On the other hand, if you find something inspiring, share that as well.
Instead of trying to come off as cool and distant, you’ll often connect with your readers more if you actually express your inner thoughts.
Talk in a one on one manner
Try to make your online conversations sound as if you’re just talking to a friend.
When you’re talking to a friend, you sound casual, but will occasionally get passionate about a topic. You won’t try to sound more professional than you are and will generally just let your voice out.
If you write from personal experience, talk about things you care about and speak in a casual yet passionate manner, like you would to a friend, then others will probably want to read more of what you write and follow you online.
Don’t worry if you are not able to find your unique voice right away.
Just keep trying and eventually you will settle into your groove. Once you do, you’re well on the way to developing your business online as authentic, trustworthy, and one with real personality.
Until next time…..
