You “just” have to make a mindset shift. Don’t think of yourself as the hero who saves the client. Or worse – an employee trying to impress a company.
Think of yourself as a guide who helps the hero (your client) get to their desired destination.
This change in perspective will take the pressure off you, so it’ll be easier to write an about me page that’s both helpful to readers and doesn’t make you cringe.
Below, I’ll talk about 3 simple techniques that’ll help you practice this new mindset.
1. Write like you’re talking about a friend
It’s so much easier to first think of positive things when you’re talking about a friend.
So why not talk about how you help your clients from this perspective?
This method is great because you can make writing less cringey but also add emotions.
Of course, try to stay in the role of a guide. Remember, the hero is the client — not you!
2. Write in third person (then rewrite it in first)
Unlike the first example, this technique is more about being as distanced as possible from yourself. Also, it can be easier to clarify what you do because you’re in the role of someone who’s not so close to your business.
SO, instead of writing phrases like “I help new founders thrive,” you’ll write something like “She helps first-time founders figure out what to build before spending money building it.
3. Start with your reader’s problems and goals you empathize with
Before writing about your skills or background, write down your client’s 2 or 3 struggles or goals. Make sure those are things you genuinely understand or have lived through.
Maybe it’s imposter syndrome, money wasted on generic courses (issues) or having more time in their day for their hobbies or family (goals).
Then, find the thread that connects your first-hand or second-hand experience with theirs. Dig into the emotions those struggles or goals elicit.
But stay away from too much emotion. It can get you into sentimentality or, worse, into emotional manipulation. Remember, you’re selling a service, not a novel or poem. That’s why you should always combine emotions with facts. This makes your copy sound both empathetic and professional.
