I just spent my morning shooting two new video’s. Now don’t get excited they are very short videos shot right here in my home. The videos will be posted to my website to create a more personal introduction to who I am and what I do. I must say it is a little uncomfortable making a video of yourself but if I don’t get the message out there who will?
I realized that while I was feeling some discomfort about promoting myself that is the same feeling many of my female advisor clients have when selling themselves. The difference is in my videos, although I used a script the script was written from the heart using my own language and vocabulary. Most female financial advisors have been taught how to promote themselves based on the male oriented approach, often times using a male message and male vocabulary, no wonder they are uncomfortable.
There are many ways to send your message but what is more important is the message itself. Finding that authentic message can be stifling. For so long female financial advisors have hidden their true self in order to conform to the male dominated industry. The good news is your true self is still alive and well, the bad news is it may take some serious excavating to find her, a necessity if you are to develop your real story.
If you are determined to uncover your authentic message consider starting with the following exercise. Imagine you are having a conversation with your husband or best friend someone you are very close to with whom you can be very honest. Perhaps business has been challenging lately (considering the past two years, you don’t have to imagine much) and your husband or friend asks you sincerely “Why do you want to continue being a financial advisor?” How would you answer? Your husband or friend is not looking for the stock answer they really want to know what is it about being a financial advisor that keeps you going even when the going get’s tough.
You may find it difficult to come up with an answer, just have them keep asking. Force yourself to dig down, to search for the answer. Once you answer this question and odds are you have found your story. Once you have your story it’s time to share it with the world.
I’ll be watching U-Tube for YOUR new video.