If you’ve ever felt hesitant about showing your face in your marketing, you’re not alone. I get it.
I have epilepsy, and five years ago, I had a seizure in the shower. I hit my face on the taps and woke up to a swollen eye and badly bruised jaw. While I was lucky to be left completely scar free, I’ve been told my eye has looked smaller ever since, and my jaw slightly misaligned. This took a huge knock on my confidence, and for a long time, I avoided putting myself out there.
When it came to being the face of Love Marketing, I really struggled. It felt uncomfortable, and I was worried about how people would perceive me. But the more I worked with small business owners, the more I realised I wasn’t alone in this. So many of the amazing people I work with have the same fears. As soon as I suggested posting a photo of themselves as business owners, they'd tell me they’re too old, not the right weight yet, not confident enough, or they just don’t like seeing themselves on camera.
But the truth is, you're not 'too anything' you're you. People connect with people. Your audience doesn’t care about perfect hair, flawless skin, or a picture-perfect setup. They care about you. And if you hide away, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful ways to grow your brand.
The Benefits Of Showing Up in Your Brand
Marketing has changed a great deal since the rise of digital marketing. People no longer just buy from brands; they buy from people they know, like, and trust. When you put yourself out there, you can build that trust.
1. Authenticity Builds Connection
When I see the person behind the brand, the voice, the journey they've been on, I form an emotional connection with the brand. Stories in particular resonate well with people as they appreciate the honesty and usually can relate to their experiences and their struggles.
When it comes to social media, these platforms are becoming more and more crowded. But standing out isn’t about shouting the loudest, it’s about being authentic. Sharing your highs, your lows, and what drives you is what stops people in their scroll. This authenticity helps potential customers relate to you on a deeper level, making them more likely to engage, support, and recommend your business.
2. You Become More Memorable
A logo is great, but a face is unforgettable. When people scroll through social media, they’re bombarded with thousands of posts; tips, tricks, cat memes, ads etc. But a friendly face, your face, stops the scroll.
Think of well-known business owners:
Sara Blakely (Spanx)
– She regularly shares personal stories and behind-the-scenes moments.
Steven Bartlett (Diary of a CEO)
– His personal branding is a huge reason for his success.
You don’t have to be a global entrepreneur to use this strategy. You just have to be you, your authentic self.
3. People Buy from People, Not Just Businesses
If I had the choice between two businesses selling the same product, one that regularly shows up, shares their journey, and interacts with their audience, and another that stays faceless behind a logo, which would I choose?I would pick the first. Why? Because I trust people. Seeing the real person behind a business makes it feel more relatable and approachable. Your audience is more likely to buy from you when they feel they know you. Customers also feel like they're less likely to be scammed by a business owner, whose face they've seen time and time again and whose story they know.
4. It Sets You Apart from the Competition
No one else has your story, your experiences, or your personality. That’s what makes your brand unique. Competitors can copy your products or services, but they can’t replicate you. By showing up as the face of your business, you instantly create something no one else can: a brand that is truly one of a kind.
How to Show Up in Your Marketing (Even If It Feels Mega Uncomfortable)
If the thought of putting yourself out there feels daunting, start small. (This is my strategy!) You don’t have to jump straight into live videos or professional photo shoots. I certainly don't! Try these instead:
1. Use Casual Photos
You don’t need a polished head shot to introduce yourself. A simple photo of you working, holding your product, or even sipping your morning coffee can make a big impact. Natural, everyday moments build trust because they feel real. So go ahead and post a casual photo and introduce yourself in the caption. Why not share a fun fact about your business or why you started.
2. Share Your Story
People love a good story, and yours is worth telling. Share why you started your business, the challenges you’ve faced, or what motivates you. If you don't feel you have a story worth telling, think again! Visit this article to discover how to tell your brand story. You can create a social media post or an “About Me” section on your website and talk about your journey.
3. Start with Stories
If like me, Instagram or Facebook 'Lives' feel too much, try posting a quick Story first. Stories disappear after 24 hours anyway, so there’s much less pressure. Film a short clip saying, “Hi! I just wanted to pop on and introduce myself.” Keep it simple and relaxed. I always ask myself, 'What's the worst that can happen?'
4. Record, Don’t Go Live
Going live can be hugely intimidating and perhaps you've ruled it out straight away. But a short recording of yourself might surprise you, when you watch it back, you might actually like what you see! Keep practising and post when you’re happy (on your watch!). It is simply enough to record a short video introducing yourself and what your business is about. Don’t overthink it, just speak like you’re talking to a friend.
5. Use Behind-the-Scenes Content
Showing your workspace, packaging orders, or even what your day looks like adds a personal touch. Your audience loves seeing the real side of your business. So go ahead and share a behind-the-scenes clip of your process and explain what you’re working on. It's interesting content!
The Shift in Confidence
For a long time, I believed my face wasn’t 'right' for my brand. But the reality is, my business is me. And the same goes for you. Your business exists because of your passion, your skills, and your unique experiences. That’s what people want to connect with.
When I finally started showing up in my marketing, something shifted. I stopped worrying about how I looked and focused on how I could help my audience. And guess what? I actually felt more myself in my business.
Conclusion
Showing your face and telling your story certainly has its benefits; people buy from people, your story and your face is what sets you apart and there's no greater way for your brand to be authentic! But do not worry unduly about this. Of course you can succeed without doing this. It is, however, worth considering if you want to build that real connection with your customers. You are enough.
Here's A Quick Challenge For You!
If you’ve been hiding behind your logo, avoiding photos, but want to give it a go, here's the challenge!
Your tasks:
Post a photo of yourself and introduce who you are and what you do.
Share one personal story related to your business journey.
Record a short video (even if you don’t post it yet) just to get comfortable.
Your audience is waiting to connect with you. Show up, be yourself, and watch your business grow in ways you never expected.