In a world where social media is filled with flashy trends, perfect filters, and cookie-cutter strategies, standing out as a business owner can feel overwhelming.

But here’s the truth: your most powerful tool for cutting through the noise is you. Your unique story, personality, and values are what will resonate with the right audience—if you’re willing to show them. Finding your authentic voice isn’t about following every trend; it’s about building connections, being unapologetically yourself, and letting people see the real person behind the brand.

Use these ideas to discover and share your unique voice on social media, so you can stop shouting to be heard and start building meaningful relationships that grow your business.

Ideas for the Blog Post
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Use your blog to start differentiating yourself from others online. Link to your blog posts from social media so your audience can learn more about you and your business from your own point of view. 

Define Your Voice and Values

• Identify your core values and mission as a business owner.
• Think about how you want to make people feel when they interact with your content.

Storytelling as a Foundation

• Share personal stories about why you started your business.
• Highlight pivotal moments in your journey that others can relate to.

Humanize Your Brand

• Introduce yourself and your team with candid photos or videos.
• Share behind-the-scenes content that showcases your personality and daily life.

Engage with Authenticity

• Respond to comments and messages in your natural tone.
• Use social media to start genuine conversations, not just promote products.

Showcase Your Unique Perspective

• Share your opinions on industry trends and news.
• Offer insights based on your experiences, not just generic advice.

Experiment with Formats and Styles

• Test out different content types: reels, memes, carousels, going live.
• Pay attention to what resonates with your audience without mimicking others.

Incorporate Your Passions and Hobbies

• Share how your personal interests inspire your work or your business philosophy.
• Post about things outside your industry that matter to you, like volunteering or travel.

Be Vulnerable but Professional

• Talk about challenges and lessons learned while maintaining professionalism.
• Share growth moments or times when things didn’t go as planned and how you pivoted.

Advice on Being Authentic

Authenticity really is the key to gaining loyal followers. There might be 500 people selling the same thing as you, so it's important to remember that your audience likes and trusts YOU. Don't try to sound like someone else - this is the time to be 100% be yourself! 

Know Your Audience but Stay True to Yourself

• Understand who you're talking to, but don't shape-shift to please everyone. Your authenticity will attract the right people.

Drop the Jargon

• Speak in a conversational tone instead of relying on overly formal language or buzzwords. Imagine you're talking to a friend.

Use Visual Consistency, Not Perfection

• Your photos and graphics should feel cohesive but don’t stress about looking perfect. Authenticity comes through in imperfection.

Lean Into Your Quirks

• Showcase what makes you you, whether it’s a love of coffee, a unique sense of humor, or a particular aesthetic.

Avoid Over-Editing Your Content

• Polished is good, but overly curated can feel distant. Balance professionalism with a raw, approachable vibe.

Set Boundaries for Sharing

• Authenticity doesn’t mean you have to share everything. Choose what feels comfortable and meaningful to your brand.

Encourage User Engagement

• Ask your audience to share their own stories or experiences. This fosters a community around your content.

Prompts for Social Media Posts

​Use these prompts to help you get started: 

• “What’s one lesson you’ve learned as a business owner that you wish you’d known sooner?”
• “Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I [process/product/service].”
• “Meet the team! We’re passionate about [value] because [personal story].”
• “Let’s talk about one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced and how I handled it.”
• “This is what a typical day in my life looks like as a [role].”

Comment and tell us where we can follow you! We'd love to support you online. 

December is a wonderful time to reflect on your growth and set the stage for an even more vibrant year ahead. This month, we’re focusing on building connections because a strong network can do wonders for your author career.
👫Your December ChallengeJoin two new networking groups this month and dive in! Whether virtual or in-person, these groups can connect you with other authors, readers, and industry professionals.
Where to Find Networking GroupsHere are several ways to find networking groups tailored to your needs as an author:
Online Platforms

1. Facebook Groups
   
   • Search for genre-specific writing groups (e.g., "Romance Writers Community," "Sci-Fi and Fantasy Authors").
     
   • Look for groups dedicated to book marketing, self-publishing, or traditional publishing.
     
   • Join local author networks or city-specific writer groups.
     
2. LinkedIn
   
   • Join professional groups for writers, editors, and publishing professionals.
     
   • Explore groups here
     
3. Reddit
   
   • Subreddits like r/writing, r/selfpublish, or r/writersgroup can connect you with communities eager to help and share advice.
     
4. Meetup.com
   
   • Search for in-person or virtual writing and publishing groups near you.
     
   • Filter results by interests like "fiction writing," "poetry," or "book marketing."
     
5. Discord Servers
   
   • Many author communities host active Discord servers where members share resources and participate in discussions.
     
   • Search for writing-related Discords via platforms like Discord.me.
     

Writing Organizations and Associations

1. Genre-Specific Organizations
   
   • Romance Writers of America (RWA), Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA), Mystery Writers of America (MWA).
     
2. General Organizations
   
   • Join the Author’s Guild or your local chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
     

Local Resources

1. Libraries and Bookstores
   
   • Check bulletin boards or ask librarians about writing clubs or book events.
     
   • Independent bookstores often host author meetups or writing groups.
     
2. Community Centers
   
   • Many towns and cities have community-run writing groups or events.
     
3. Colleges and Universities
   
   • Explore creative writing departments or continuing education programs to find local workshops or alumni groups.
     

Events and Conferences

1. Writer’s Conferences and Book Fairs
   
   • Attend events like ThrillerFest, BookExpo, or regional festivals to meet fellow authors and industry professionals.
     
2. Workshops and Retreats
   
   • Look for events that emphasize group discussions or networking.
     

Professional Referrals and Word-of-Mouth

1. Ask Fellow Writers
   
   • Reach out to author friends or mentors to see what groups they recommend.
     
2. Follow Writing Influencers
   
   • Many authors or coaches share links to groups they manage or participate in.
     

Paid Communities

1. Membership Platforms
   
   • Look for exclusive groups on Patreon or Substack hosted by industry experts or authors.
     
2. Coaching Programs
   
   • Some book coaches or marketers (like The Fiction Lab) offer access to private networking groups as part of their services.
     

Here’s how to find the right group for you:
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Networking Groups

1. Match Your Genre: Look for groups with a focus on your niche. A romance author will feel more at home in a group of fellow romantics than in a sci-fi collective.
   
2. Align with Your Goals: If your goal is visibility, join groups with readers or industry professionals. For craft improvement, look for critique-focused groups.
   
3. Check the Vibe: Observe the group’s tone and personality. Do they encourage discussions or feel overly competitive? Join a group where your personality can thrive.
   

Once you’ve joined, don’t lurk—jump into conversations! Introduce yourself, ask questions, and share your insights. Your future readers, collaborators, and friends are waiting.
🎅 Social Post Ideas - Holiday EditionFor Published Authors

1. "Give the Gift of Fiction This Year!"
   Post Caption:
   “Forget socks and ties—books make the best gifts! 🎁✨ Whether you’re shopping for a romance lover, a mystery solver, or a fantasy dreamer, my novel is the perfect present to put under the tree. 🎄 What book are you giving as a gift this year?”
   Accompanying Visual: A photo of your book wrapped in festive holiday paper with a gift tag that says, “To: You, From: Your Next Favorite Story.”
   
2. "It’s the Most Wonderful Read of the Year!"
   Post Caption:
   “Cozy up with a cup of cocoa, twinkling lights, and my book this holiday season. ☕📚 Let’s make this winter wonder-READ-full! 🥰 Grab your copy now and let’s spread some story magic!”
   Accompanying Visual: Your book styled with holiday decor like fairy lights, pinecones, or ornaments.
   
3. "All I Want for Christmas Is… for You to Read My Book!"
   Post Caption:
   “Looking for a last-minute gift idea that’s as magical as Christmas morning? 🎅📖 Give the gift of adventure, love, and laughter with my book! Or treat yourself—you deserve it. 🎄💕”
   Accompanying Visual: Your book cover inserted into a holiday gift bag with the caption overlay: “Books = the gift that keeps on giving.”
   

For Authors Without a Published Book Yet

1. "Santa, I Swear I’m on the Write Track!"
   Post Caption:
   “Dear Santa, this year, I’m working hard to finish my book. It might not be wrapped up with a bow yet, but it’s coming in 2025! 🎅✍️ What’s your big goal for the new year? Let’s make 2025 our most creative year yet!”
   Accompanying Visual: A photo of your writing setup with a cheeky letter to Santa about your writing goals.
   
2. "It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Writing…"
   Post Caption:
   “Between decking the halls and sipping hot cocoa, I’m making time to write this holiday season. 📝🎄 What’s your favorite way to stay creative during the holidays? Let’s jingle all the way to our word count goals!”
   Accompanying Visual: A cozy holiday setup with your notebook, laptop, or favorite writing tools surrounded by holiday cheer.
   
3. "All I Want for Christmas Is Write Here, Write Now!"
   Post Caption:
   “I may not have a book under the tree this year, but the gift of storytelling is alive and well in my heart! 💝✨ Can’t wait to share my story with you soon. What’s your favorite gift you’ve ever given or received?”
   Accompanying Visual: A Christmas tree ornament shaped like a book or quill, paired with your favorite writing quote.
   

🎄December Email Newsletter Topics

1. Year in Review: Reflect on your 2024 wins and lessons. Share how your audience inspired you and hint at exciting plans for 2025.
   
2. Holiday Giveaway: Run a small giveaway (a signed book, writing swag, or even an Amazon gift card). Encourage your audience to spread the word.
   
3. Seasonal Connection: Write a heartfelt message about how the holidays inspire your writing or storytelling. Include a short story, poem, or creative excerpt related to the season.
   

Let’s make December a month of meaningful connections and festive creativity. I can’t wait to see how you grow!