Breaking Through the Fear: A Marketing Expert's Personal Challenge
How My Own Business Became the Ultimate Test of My Branding Advice
Ever since I wrote my blog post "Embracing Visibility: Cultivating Confidence and Overcoming Doubts in Utah's Competitive Market", I've been reflecting on an interesting contradiction in my career. While encouraging clients in sectors reliant on personal connections to step into the limelight when developing their brand, I've found myself hesitant to showcase my own image through traditional means of personal branding, such as social media and headshots.
There's a profound truth I've come to realize through my personal and professional journey: the fear of being visible, of truly being seen, holds me back in more ways than I care to admit. Today, I'm sharing something deeply personal, a decision born from countless hours of introspection and breakthroughs in therapy. This isn't just another blog post; it's a vow, a commitment to step out of the shadows and into the light—not just for my business, but for myself.
Confronting the Paradox
Recently, I've found myself unable to deny the irony of my situation. Here I was, a marketing specialist who spent years advising my clients on the importance of being the public face of their business, hesitating to place myself at the forefront of my own brand story. In a career that not only benefits from but also depends on both building my brand around my image and becoming the public face of my brand, I found myself in an uncomfortable position.
In many other business sectors, the essence of a brand is captured through its products, services, or the collective ethos of its team, where the owner's visibility may not directly inspire additional trust. In my field though, where personal consultation and guidance are my greatest assets, becoming the public face and embodiment of my brand is key to building trust and connection.
As I began working further on developing the Amplify Marketing Pro brand, I had to come to terms with the realization that my reluctance wasn't due to a lack of belief in the value of personal branding where it matters. It was actually a fortress of self-imposed barriers, meticulously constructed to shield myself from my deepest fears.
Advancing Beyond the Advisor Role
For over 15 years, I've thrived in the role of an advisor, comfortably guiding from behind the scenes. This position allowed me to elevate my clients, spotlighting their strengths and achievements while I remained in the backdrop. It was a role that suited me, one where I could exercise my expertise without stepping into the limelight myself.
However, since I founded Amplify Marketing Pro, a huge shift occurred. The tables have turned, and I find myself in the very position I've coached hundreds of clients through: Suddenly, I am my own brand now. I mean.. I am literally the 'Pro' in my brand's name! It would be inauthentic to continue working quietly in the background. This admission brings with it the necessity to not only build trust but to connect authentically with my clients and community.
The Journey to Vulnerability
My reluctance to be visible isn't about shyness or introversion; it's rooted in something much deeper. The idea of putting my face on my website, of being the first thing potential clients see, has always been a source of anxiety. This fear isn't rational; it's visceral, a product of past traumas and the all-too-human fear of judgment.
The vulnerability of facing the camera, exposed and open to scrutiny, is daunting in both professional and personal contexts. It requires shedding layers of self-protection and allowing myself to be seen in a raw and unfiltered state.
This discomfort isn't confined to my professional life; it extends into my personal life as well. I'm often the friend who takes photos and doesn't show up in them, preferring to stay behind the lens rather than in front of it. It's a pattern that reflects a deeper hesitation to be seen and acknowledged, even in moments of joy and connection. Looking back, I realize how much I've missed out on, wishing I could see myself in those memories instead of just being the one capturing them.
Despite the discomfort and hesitations, I recognize the importance of embracing vulnerability and stepping into the spotlight, both personally and professionally. It's a journey of self-discovery and growth, where true connection and authenticity emerge from moments of discomfort and exposure.
Making the Promise
So here I am, embracing a new chapter, not just for you, the reader, but for myself as well. I've committed to stepping out of the shadows and into the light, not just for my business, but on a deeply personal level too. This journey isn't about a single moment of revelation, such as unveiling a headshot or sharing a new social media profile, but about a continuous process of becoming more visible and present in my brand. It's a daunting yet exhilarating prospect, one that I'm ready to embrace with all its complexities.
This commitment is not a business strategy; it's about authenticity, about being courageously present as my true self. It's a pledge to not only offer my professional expertise but also to share my journey, my challenges, and my triumphs with you. My aim is for you to know the person behind the advice, the individual who is not just about promoting businesses but is deeply committed to forging real, meaningful connections.
Embracing the Challenge
I won't pretend this journey will be straightforward. The thought of stepping into the spotlight, of integrating my personal presence more visibly into my brand's narrative, is both nerve-wracking and exciting. But it's this very vulnerability that makes us relatable, that fosters deeper human connections.
This blog post, and every step I take forward, is a testament to my commitment to face my fears, to be genuinely seen, and to connect authentically with you, my clients, and my community. It's about breaking down the walls I've built around myself and moving towards a place of genuine, authentic visibility.
The Brand Story Unfolds
Reflecting on these steps I'm taking to overcome the fear of visibility, I'm reminded of the challenges many entrepreneurs face, whether it's the fear of being seen or the struggle to convey the value of their offerings effectively. These emotional nuances significantly influence how we present ourselves and our businesses, both consciously and subconsciously.
If you're a small business owner looking to explore personal branding but are dealing with similar fears, know that you're not alone. The journey to visibility is personal and fraught with challenges, but it's also incredibly rewarding. And remember, while it's important to push ourselves, it's equally important to move at a pace that feels right for us.
As I embark on this journey, I invite you to join me. Let's embrace the discomfort, the vulnerability, and the incredible potential for growth it brings. And if you ever feel like the journey is too daunting to face alone, know that I'm here, ready to walk alongside you, every step of the way.
Let's Take This Step Together
I'm Cris, the heart and soul behind Amplify Marketing Pro, and I'm dedicated to helping businesses across Utah — from Santaquin to Murray, Tooele to Park City, and beyond — thrive through genuine, heartfelt connections with their customers and our community. If you're ready to progress but unsure of the first step, don't hesitate to reach out. Let's make your business not just seen, but truly known.
Founder & Marketing Expert
Amplify Marketing Pro
