“Share your weaknesses. Share your hard moments. Share your real side. It’ll either scare away every fake person in your life or it will inspire them to finally let go of that mirage called “perfection,” which will open the doors to the most important relationships you’ll ever be a part of.” – Dan Pearce
Do you have a story to tell?
Consider that each one of us has a story to tell.
The best stories are the ones that reveal intimate details about your life; the tale of events that made your heart race and your palms sweat.
The reality is people buy from the person with whom they share an emotional connection. The person they believe understands their pain, disappointments, and challenges. The person they believe can move them beyond their present situation.
In this video, I sit down with Social Media Strategist, Turiya Hodge. Learn why you must bring your authentic self to the stage and social media. Discover the rewards of being vulnerable and why telling your story is the key to connecting and building trust.
In today’s digital age of non-stop ads and marketing, it has become difficult for us to trust the messaging we see. What we are seeking is a message that speaks directly to us and touches our emotions. We are seeking authentic, engaging stories.
So why is authenticity so critical? Telling a personal story will require that you be vulnerable, reveal a flaw, error, or a roadblock that was difficult to overcome. The ups and downs you’ve experienced along your journey could become someone else’s hope and guidance while they continue their journey. A well-crafted authentic story instantly grabs attention, elicits emotion, and engages people.
Let’s look at why authenticity and vulnerability are the secrets to creating connection and engagement.
#1 Authenticity- Build Trust and Engagement
Have you ever listened to a story that moved you because it was so close to your reality? By telling your own story, your audience has insight into the challenge and disappointment you have faced, as well as the lessons and personal growth needed to achieve your success. It gives your audience a more intimate look at your journey and allows for an authentic connection with your audience.
#2 Vulnerability- Embrace Your Imperfections
When you pretend to be perfect, it puts up a wall and makes you seem unapproachable and unrelatable. Just the idea of perfection can make people feel uncomfortable and suspicious. Bill Johnson said it best; “Perfection is the cruel counterfeit of excellence.” Being vulnerable is not just about showing the parts of you that are pretty and fun. It’s about revealing what you deny or keep hidden from the world. Revealing your imperfections makes you more relatable and attractive to the audience.
#3 It’s Not About You- Focus On the Audience
The truth is sharing a story about ourselves makes us feel vulnerable. Often, we believe it will expose us to hurts and criticism. Consider it’s your willingness to be vulnerable that connects you with your audience. It is your journey that sets the stage for the best teachings. The lesson learned and the knowledge you acquired along the way, moves your divine client and makes them interested to learn more.
We are drawn to leaders who rise above their challenges and take inspired action. An authentic leader can inspire and connect by consistently displaying who they are as a person. By speaking from your heart you authentically model for your audience who you are called to be.
To learn more about the art of crafting your authentic brand story join us for Magnetize And Monetize The Virtual Stage. http://bit.ly/MagnetizeAndMonetizeTheVirtualStage