Opportunity from Problems
Everyone has problems. Problems reveal themselves when expected or by surprise. They create moments of stress in the lives of people despite their moral stances. A tired barista on a busy street has problems. A project manager in a multinational corporation has problems. A teacher in a classroom with 27 unique children definitely has problems.
Problems are real, but they are not your source of stress. The stress comes from the effort it takes to solve a problem that you are not equipped to solve. Like getting a flat and having no spare, tire iron, and no jack. Trust me, you are NOT equipped for every problem that you will face in life. Therefore problems are actually opportunities for growth and connection. This is where personal branding emerges as a solution.
Connecting to a person who has "been there and done that" will offer more value than a large corporation, government service, or software as a service. That is why I contest that every small business owner should either start a personal brand or inject personal branding into their business' content.
Building a Personal Brand for Security
Personal brands connect you to communities. They lend a voice and a face to solutions that allow you to personalize your problems. I'm embarking on a journey to build my own personal brand. Why? Because there's a significant risk in solely relying on selling products or services as the sole source of revenue. If I don't make, or I don't serve, I have no resources coming in. So, my personal brand will serve as a vessel to share solutions and help myself and others generate revenue, expand audiences, and ensure a more valuable future.
Problem Solvers are Valuable
In a world saturated with issues, it's time to embrace the label of a problem solver. But let's take a step back from grandiose, "I want to make world peace" types of aspirations. We have to start with simple, relatable problems and build to the larger ones. Even if someone else has already posed a solution, make it your own with a unique twist. People might follow you not just for the solution but for the values you bring to the table (humor, aesthetics, personality, etc). One of the simple problems I'm solving is creating a system to anchor my writing. I have determined that by first considering the type of value I want to deliver, I then will craft content that aligns with that purpose.
Beyond Monetary Value Exchanges
The status quo often fixates on value exchanges tied to money. Statements like, "I make 10k per month with this one thing" are very attractive and pose monetary social value. I mean if you are making that much money from a product, it MUST solve all sorts of problems, right? Right?? While ensuring you make money from your work is important, you must not forget that there are other, equally important things to build for longevity. It's not just about getting paid; it's about nurturing a more holistic ecosystem where value manifests in various forms.
The Essence of Business - Value Exchanges
So this ecosystem that is built through lead generation, writing, cold calls, or in-person meetings, at the heart of it all lies value exchanges. Without these exchanges, any value given by one side is merely an act of charity. Solve problems for attention, credit, collaboration, and an array of other things that can enrich your brand and its impact.
Value Exchanges and Small Businesses
Value exchanges are a lifeline for small businesses. They breathe life into local shops and startups, allowing them to not just survive but thrive. Here is an example of one such value exchange I have with a local content channel: whenever I make a banger video for my candle shop, I can tag them in it and they will share it. I am helped by the extra attention from their audience, they are helped by expanding the amount of content they share which keeps them top of mind for local information. Another value exchange I often use for my creative business is to pair with an illustrator and offer to animate their designs for free. We both get exposure and credit for our work and we get to share it with each other's audiences. By offering unique solutions and establishing strong connections, small business owners can harness the power of their personal brands to make a significant impact.
The Call for Content Creation
Content creation and social media marketing may intermingle in the digital landscape, but they are distinct entities. Content creation is the heart of the matter, where you craft meaningful and valuable material that resonates with your audience. It's more than promotion; it's about communication, education, entertainment, and inspiration.
Content serves as the bridge that connects your brand with your audience, offering solutions and value that extend beyond mere transactions. For instance, if you run a fitness equipment business, your content isn't just about product photos; it's about workout guides, nutrition tips, and success stories that genuinely help customers achieve their health goals.
Moreover, content creation isn't just a one-way street. It also reaches back to individuals who leverage your experiences to fast-track their own growth. When you share your journey and insights, you offer a blueprint for others looking to start their businesses. Content becomes a source of inspiration and learning, enriching lives on both ends of the spectrum. Content creation is about fostering strong connections and empowering others, transcending traditional marketing to leave a lasting impact.
Getting Started with Content Creation
When embarking on your content creation journey, consider writing as the foundation. It's the canvas upon which you can articulate your thoughts, share your expertise, and establish your unique voice. Writing allows you to connect with your audience in a personal and profound way. If you're looking for a hand to guide you in the world of writing, I'm here to help with content collaboration through my Content Collab - 60 program.
Video content still reigns supreme for gaining traction in today's digital landscape, but the bar for quality has been raised. To create engaging video content that resonates with your audience, partnering with a guided brand advisor and content producer is invaluable. It's not just about recording; it's about storytelling, visual aesthetics, and conveying your message effectively. If you're interested in exploring these avenues, I offer the Brand Advisor and Content Producer programs to provide expert guidance and support.
In this dynamic content creation era, writing is your launchpad, and video is your trajectory. Together, they can propel your personal brand to new heights, capturing the hearts and minds of your audience. By combining your words with compelling visuals and expert guidance, you'll embark on a journey of content creation that not only garners attention but also fosters lasting connections and meaningful growth.
Conclusion - Value Prompts Promo
In conclusion, I wish that you continue on your journey to unlock the full potential of Value Exchanges. I invite you to explore my list of value prompts. An introduction to these different flavors of value will be listed in a comprehensive guide that I am putting together. I will be sending it out to all subscribers of my Good Luck Notes. The guide will contain 30 different types of prompts along with examples of each. It's a convenient tool to use at the beginning of your journey to focus your messaging for success.
That is all I have for this week.
Good Luck!
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