Most marketers I talk to find it much easier to market their clients than to market themselves. It took me a long while to understand why marketing oneself is more challenging, but I think I’ve finally figured it out.
I’ve been working in marketing for 17 years now, and while I have also been running my own projects, my true calling seems to be helping others build their businesses. In fact, I dare say I’m pretty good at it. However, whenever it comes to promoting myself, I get stuck, and until very recently, I didn’t know why.
So What Is the Problem?
In order to consult with someone, I need to know what my client’s goals are, and I need to understand their current situation. If both of these are clear, I can map out a step-by-step plan on how to go from here to there.
Now, when it comes to me, I have a somewhat fuzzy image of my goals, and I might deceive myself a little about where and who I am. As long as that is true, I cannot apply my skills to myself, for these things are essential.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help
If you want to market yourself, you must either paint a clear picture of where you want to be and learn to be honest with yourself about your current situation, or you may ask another marketer to take a look at your predicament. They might be able to help you better than you could help yourself, as we all maintain our own illusions to some degree.