The growing popularity of social media sites has focused attention on the story people tell about themselves. When I’m considering whether or not to link, friend or follow you, for example, what you say in your profile helps me decide. If you haven’t even taken the time to complete a profile, you can forget it. Why would I want to connect with a mask?
When I was growing up I was encouraged to be modest and keep my personal life to myself. Perhaps this is true for you too. Talking about your quirks, adversities and telling the truth about your misadventures was known as airing your dirty laundry. Only the pretty (often deceptive) version could be shared in public.
Times have changed. According to Michael Margolis, Founder and President of GetStoried.com, we can reinvent ourselves through our stories. He’s not suggesting that we unburden ourselves so that we feel better either. He believes that if you are a coach, entrepreneur or other business person, your perceived worth and value is directly related to your personal story.
Check out what Michael has to say regarding the importance of your About page. Then go over to his site to get a taste of his virtual storytelling summit. http://www.getstoried.com/free-storytelling-mini-conference-preview/
I agree. I think humanising your self is becoming more and more important these days. I am just about to rewrite my About page. Could be something to do with the advent of reality television.
Madonna
Hi Madonna,
Now that we know its significance, most of us can benefit from a rewrite of our About page. From your blog I see that you are helping us from the inside out. Thanks for that.
Thanks for sharing this video. I’m going to think about how I can better tell my story so I don’t sell myself short. Perhaps a friend who often sings my praises can help. I’m off to check out his book.
Hi Kimberly,
It does help to get a friend to help with pointing out key pieces of your story. With a blog titled The Daily Details, you’ve given us high expectations of juicy stories to come.
This is so true and also a great reminder that when you put yourself out there publically, what you say about yourself (or consequently, NOT say) is really important. I, too, am drawn to what people say about themselves in their Bio. I was always trying to keep things private growing up, but then again, I also love to talk, so this whole social media world is probably a gift to me that I need to let myself loose on and explore! Thanks for this great post!
JRT,
You’re right about social media being a gift to those of us who like to talk. And after a glance at your blog, I see that you have loads to talk about for many years to come.
Great tips! I think the rule of the day for online content and marketing is authenticity – great advice!