Female Creative Entrepreneur: Embracing Your Flow
When I started freelancing, I was surprised by the amount of effort it asked of me to take part in self-marketing.
However, without self-advertisement there is no success to be achieved in the realm of creative freelancing. No longer hidden behind the scenes in a multi-employee web agency, I had to do everything to step out of my comfort zone and into the “social spotlight”.
This Christmas, when reuniting with previous classmates, after self-advertising for about half a year to date - I was positively surprised by the amount of positive feedback I received for that exact bravery. And this is a lesson I strive to pay forward:
We operate in an entrepreneurial landscape in which men confidently proclaim their achievements, often regardless of merit, while women find themselves navigating a labyrinth of societal expectations that dictate modesty.
This stark contrast reveals a gender bias deeply embedded in our culture. Even as we make strides towards equality, the struggle persists, impacting the corporate landscape and stifling the entrepreneurial spirit.
But fear not, for today, we explore a path to empowerment through authenticity. The truth is, as a society, we tend to be harder on women than on their male counterparts. However, breaking free from this paradigm begins with embracing the discomfort of being a bit bolder, a bit more authentic.
So, how can we, as women entrepreneurs, strike the delicate balance between humility and effective self-promotion? Let's dive into actionable steps that transcend the ordinary and pave the way for a transformative journey:
Embrace a level of boldness that extends beyond your comfort zone. Recognize that your worries about coming across as arrogant provide a significant leeway for authentic self-expression. Start small by graciously accepting compliments and openly sharing your achievements.
If the thought of direct self-promotion is daunting, leverage alternative avenues to showcase your expertise. Imagine transforming your knowledge into a powerful tool for empowerment through blog posts, engaging email newsletters, and captivating workshops.
Shift the narrative from vague proclamations to concrete results. Whether you've tripled your business growth or have compelling client case studies, let these tangible achievements become the storytellers of your journey.
Your satisfied clients can be powerful advocates for your authenticity. Request testimonials or feedback, and proudly display them on your website, marketing materials, and social media. Let the voice of your clients become a symphony of authenticity.
All in all, DON'T HIDE AND SHY AWAY.
