On Authenticity

On Authenticity

As a small business owner, marketing advice abounds. Particularly plentiful these days is advice on internet marketing. Have you seen this type of sales pitch? Typically a long scrolling page, building a case for how much you need a product. Periodically a link to “order now” and then more strong content telling you how the product will fix your outlook on life, lead you to a remarkable love life, show you the sure-fire way to lose weight, and yes, even guarantee you instant interviews and job offers.

My “watch-out” meter goes wild with these pitches, and yet, guess what, I have purchased a few. Afterwards I realize that it isn’t the magic bullet, fix-it and cure-all that the author has claimed. More often than not it is pretty standard fare; sometimes even a rip-off. Every once in a while though, the product is excellent. Although never a cure-all, some information is worth paying for.

Too bad it’s so hard to tell which is the snake-charmer/liar, and which is a truthful, caring business, actually wanting to improve your life, your work, your health…

I think it’s the ones that promise the impossible that you have to beware of; those that promise perfect health, lots of job offers, instant weight loss. And the ones that have good information to share are the ones offering answers to particular questions, as opposed to a one-stop, cure-all, for all.

For me, authenticity is important. I must live with my decisions, and be accountable to myself, my family, my clients. As a business owner I guarantee that I will do my very best for each client. I continue to add to my knowledge with additional professional training. I stand behind my product, and I support my clients’ efforts. Every client who returns with questions, unmet expectations or comments is listened to, and answered, supported, helped. Many return for updates as time passes and their career-itch returns! That is my reward for authentically supporting my clients’ career needs.