How to Self-Promote Without Feeling Like a Walking Billboard
Ok I know we’ve all felt this: self-promotion can feel cringey. No one wants to come off like a walking billboard screaming “BUY FROM ME!” (or worse, the dreaded cold DM – “hey girl!”)—and honestly, your audience doesn’t want that either.
But here’s the truth: if you don’t tell people who you are, what you do, and how you can help—someone else with half the talent and twice the confidence will. (😒 But also… true.)
But guess what?! You can promote your business in a way that feels authentic, confident, and … actually kind of fun! Let’s break it down.
1. Be Helpful, Not Hype-y
If you’re building a personal brand, your content should give before it asks. Share tips, behind-the-scenes moments, mindset shifts, or resources. Show people the value you bring to the table before you slide into pitch mode.
Example: Instead of “Book me today!” try “Here’s how I help my clients feel confident AF on camera (even if they normally hate photos).”
2. Let Your Clients Do the Yapping
Social proof is *everything* when it comes to brand visibility. Share testimonials, results, screenshots, and DMs. Real words from real people go wayyy further than tooting your own horn.
3. Own The Real
People connect with humans (the messy parts, not highlight reels). Talk about the why behind your business, the pivots you’ve made, the moments that changed everything. Vulnerability builds trust—and trust builds brands.
4. Hang Out With Your People
Don’t have a one-way conversation; join the it. Engage with your audience. Comment on their posts. Show up in their world first. That way, when you do promote something, it doesn’t feel random or out of place.
5. Show Your Face. Often.
(Ahhhh – You knew this was coming😜.) If you want people to remember your personal brand, you need to show up visually. People trust faces. They connect with expressions. They remember YOU, not your Canva graphic. So yeah, your brand photography matters here. Big time.
If you’re promoting a new service or offer and you’re not showing up visually—you’re missing a huge piece of the puzzle.
Bottom line? Authentic self-promotion isn’t about screaming louder. It’s about showing up with confidence, consistency, and connection.
Need some fresh personal brand photography that actually helps you do that? Let’s talk. I’ll help you plan a shoot that gets you seen (without feeling salesy).
