11 Nov How to write about yourself that will get every reporter glued with interest

Why It’s So Hard to Write About Yourself or Your Business (and How PR Teams Help)

Nearly everyone we talk with tells us about the amazing things happening at their company. Sometimes these stories detail how they are giving back to the community, helping employees excel or a unique new service that they’re pioneering. They then tell us about how either they 1) don’t feel comfortable telling others about it in fear of bragging or looking self-serving, or 2) they have attempted to tell the media or the community with no luck, 3) it just feels awkward.

That’s where public relations teams come in to help. You see, by telling others about your contributions to the community or certain causes, you’re not patting yourself on the back, rather, you’re telling your organization’s story and providing an opportunity for others to learn about your company. You’re also planting a seed for others to also contribute or give back in their own way by learning about these efforts.

Just as importantly, by working with a PR firm, you’ll be able to tell people about yourself or organization so that they can build a relationship with you and get to know you. People like to do business with people that they know, like and therefore, trust. The best way to start that process is to build awareness by letting others know who you are and what you do.

It may feel uncomfortable; that’s why it’s always easier for someone else to tell your story for you.

First rule: Don’t sell. That’s right – don’t talk about how amazing your product or service is, rather, talk about the ways it helps people or even better, share the stories of the people you’ve helped.

Second rule: Don’t downplay the details. Many times when people write about themselves for business they talk about education, awards, and other accolades. However, the difference between good and great writing about oneself is in the details. Explain how your team rolled up their sleeves to help a great cause and elaborate on the details of solving problems and getting to a conclusion. Those details are so much more compelling than stating several facts.

Third rule: Don’t sweat. Overanalyzing when writing about oneself is one of the most common pitfalls. Have someone else interview you or find a way to tell your business story as if you’re writing for a book or movie is a practice that can help move from analysis paralysis to actually putting pen to paper (so to speak).

Let the details flow and tell your story. For help writing about yourself or organization, feel free to connect with us. Give us a call at (813) 865-3093.