How to Market Your Business with Integrity
LinkedIn Sales Solutions @linkedinsalesnavigator
Too often, I see new entrepreneurs struggle with their marketing approach. They are like the characters in Cinderella trying on the glass slipper to see if it is the right fit. They try out Instagram, write a few blog posts, and send a few emails, and the results of their efforts are lackluster—they just don't fit. They are still searching the marketing ecosystem for their perfect match, an alignment between their actions and message. Every failed attempt is frustrating, and every misstep stirs up strong emotions.
Interestingly, the glass slipper metaphor is about Cinderella finding her true identity and natural beauty—the glass slippers offer her confidence when worn. New entrepreneurs search for their brand's voice, individuality, and essence but lack the confidence and clarity to be radiant. They are insecure, overwhelmed by outside influence, and struggling with imposter syndrome for trying something new and taking up space in an already crowded arena—it is like showing up to the ball in rags. Like Cinderella, these entrepreneurs don't feel like they belong until they're seen for their unique attributes. Their outward expression needs to match their inner beauty; that is where finding integrity comes in.
Try Marketing from the Inside Out
I would encourage entrepreneurs to turn inward instead of looking for external solutions. Advice from others is only relevant if delivered precisely at the right time. While well-intended and helpful, these offerings often only add clutter to an already busy mind. Worse even, when the emphasis is on seeking input from others, a new entrepreneur's craving for validation is heightened. For that reason, as a coach and strategic marketer, I help my clients explore their inner wisdom, focusing on values, strengths, and motivators before concentrating on areas of growth. This person-centered approach to marketing is what I am passionate about and what I have coined marketing integrity.
What is Marketing Integrity?
Marketing integrity is the act of promoting and selling your business with honesty while adhering to strict moral principles and values. It is speaking about your offerings to an audience of potential buyers, showing up whole and undivided while being intentionally rooted in your truth. Marketing integrity means you are not chasing but attracting your followers, as they are drawn to you by your actions, words, and global outlook. Marketing integrity is showing up with curiosity, rolling with uncertainty, and not being afraid to honor mistakes for the valuable lessons they offer. It is about being vulnerable and humble. Marketing integrity is a form of slow marketing in which thought and consideration are the barometers for decision-making and the framework for strategic planning.
How to Move Towards Marketing Integrity
The best way to move towards marketing integrity is by showing up, getting quiet, and being present. It is about tuning inward to your own compass. Ask yourself these questions:
What recurring themes have guided me throughout my whole life?
What strengths are undeniably mine?
When do people ask me for help? What help are they seeking?
What is so easy for me to do that it feels effortless?
When do I experience flow in my work?
What do I morally believe?
What values do I adamantly defend?
When you start to observe what your strengths are and what values you uphold, your strategy becomes more transparent—your options for moving forward become obvious. When you commit to your integrity, your marketing has impact and personal relevance. You feel confident, clear in your conviction, and full of purpose in your actions. You know what you need to write about, you know who your audience is, and you know why you need to put in the effort. You also have a sense of what a successful outcome will look like and have the resilience to persevere despite the difficulty.
Support Can Help
As a coach, my role is to hold space and provide structure so you can explore. I help guide your inner transformation, but you are the one driving. Together, we can chart the course, identifying mental limitations and destructive thought patterns. We can examine narratives that aren't serving you or are in conflict with your integrity. We can bolster your confidence and build momentum one small step or awareness at a time. Marketing with integrity isn't easy, but it is the more rewarding and meaningful way to grow your brand and business. I invite you to learn more about my unique approach and how we might partner together by booking a free chemistry session.
