The Studio Source.com

Are you uneasy about marketing? If so, you’re not alone. Lots of people get freaked out about it. I get freaked out about it. Marketing itself isn’t the problem, of course. The big problem with marketing is how you think about it.

I just went all psychological on you. Sorry. But it’s true. It’s tough putting yourself on the line. It’s worse when you’re in the startup phase, but even if you’re already in the midst of a business or professional creative practice, reaching out to find new clients can be scary. You might worry that you’ll be ignored, or rejected outright. And that will make you feel bad.

But most of that stuff is “what if.” What ifs can drive you crazy and stop you in your tracks.

The truth is some people really will ignore you, and some won’t want what you’re selling, but that’s the way it’s supposed to be. You don’t need to feel bad about the people who aren’t into what you do. Your fans are among the crowd, too.

So let me change the subject without really changing the subject: do you enjoy meeting people who do cool things? Do you tell your friends, colleagues or family about the cool people you meet?

I know a guy who makes music for films and video games. I know a milliner. What’s a milliner? Someone who makes felt and straw hats shaped over a hat block using steam. Cool, huh?

I wouldn’t know what either of these people do if they hadn’t told me. And if they hadn’t told me, I couldn’t tell you. So tell people about the cool stuff you do. It’s fun hearing it.

Does that take the edge off a little?

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1. A chance to take part in Blog Action Day
2. What happens when you try too hard (Marketing 101 revisited)
3. Perfectionism, pirates, and a free marketing class