Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Effective Self-Marketing Strategies

Did you guys know that I'm an expert on marketing yourself now? Since posting this:

I've been truly working on putting myself out there more. It's largely due to the book that I've been reading. Ok. It's an audio book ok? It's an audiobook. Because I have #ADHD - sitting still with a book, big nope. I can “read” while driving, or even cleaning. At this point I should be getting commission for "Let Them" by Mel Robbins. Me to everyone that will listen:

This book has completely changed me. I'm making moves. I'm putting myself out there. And guess what friends...I finally put out for a call for "mini sessions" for my friends and family. Here's what happened.

PEOPLE RESPONDED.

I've had requests for mini sessions. I even had a request for a wedding. Am I fully booked for the entire year? No. But it's a start. It takes time to ....I'm struggling to think of a suitable reference. It takes time to grow a mountain. Nope.

It takes time to grow a mustache. Hmm.

I don't know. It takes time ok.

So obviously I'm an expert now and I think we should do a lil' deep dive on Imposter Syndrome. I've always felt like I'm not really good enough? I've second guessed posting my work, raising prices, or even telling people about my business because I'm afraid they’ll think, Who do they think they are?

But you know what friends? We are good enough. We are talented. And we don't give a f*ck about what people think.

Repeat. After. Me.

You don’t have to let self-doubt hold you back from marketing yourself. Even if you feel like a fraud sometimes, your skills, experience, and passion are real—and people need what you offer. Here’s how to push past imposter syndrome and show up confidently.

Step One: Lean Into Social Proof

The first thing I did was ask a few former clients for a review. Man. If you want to pump your own tires, and feel good about yourself, this is a really good move.

Here's what my former boss had to say about me:

"Allison is an absolute rockstar behind the lens and beyond! She seamlessly captures every moment—live action shots, posed group photos, and even professional headshots for our delegates—all with incredible skill and efficiency.

When we bring her in for our multi-day corporate conferences, she’s more than just a photographer; she’s a true team player, always ready to help in any way she can.

Personable, funny, professional, and always accommodating, Allison makes everyone feel at ease, ensuring the best possible shots. 

If you need a photographer who can do it all, I highly recommend Allison!"

Here's what I'm going to suggest, and what I've started doing for myself:

• Share testimonials and reviews. If someone has raved about your work, post it! Let their words speak for you.

• Keep a “hype folder.” Save screenshots of positive feedback and revisit them when doubt creeps in.

• Create a case study. Show before-and-after results or client success stories—it proves your work makes an impact.

The truth is, if people have already paid you, hired you, and loved your work, you’re not an imposter. You’re legit.

Step Two: Start Small & Stay Authentic

So fart it's just the one post, but things are happening for me. I will be fully transparent, I have a bit of nerves responding to the people that responded to my post about mini sessions. Because now..it's real. Now..I have to deliver. I was talking to my friend the other day about how on Tik Tok I have no problem sharing myself, my thoughts, my life. But I think it's because there are no real life people there. Meaning people in my life who know me don't interact with my tik tok. I'm sure they're there though.

But Marketing doesn't have to be stressful and putting yourself out there doesn't necessarily mean you have to be on every platform, posting every day. If that overwhelms you, start small:

• Choose 1-2 places to show up consistently (Instagram, LinkedIn, your blog, etc.).

• Focus on connection over perfection. Talk like a real person, not a brand robot.

• Share behind-the-scenes content, client wins, or things you’ve learned. It doesn’t always have to be polished.

Marketing works best when it feels like a natural extension of you—not like a forced performance.

Step Three: Separate Feelings From Facts

Just because you feel like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one. Remember Step One?? You already have the proof that you're good at what you do. Even if you're not marketing a skill per say - maybe you're just looking to crack into the beauty influencing space. You're not going to get anywhere if you don't post.

• Look at real evidence: the clients who love your work, the skills you’ve built, the progress you’ve made.

• Ask yourself: Would I doubt a friend’s abilities the way I doubt my own? Probably not—so show yourself the same kindness.

• Remind yourself that even the most successful people struggle with self-doubt. It’s not a sign you’re failing; it’s a sign you care.

Conclusion

Here’s the truth: Feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one. It just means you’re stepping outside your comfort zone, and that’s where growth happens.

Marketing yourself might feel uncomfortable at first, but your ideal clients and audience need what you offer. If you don’t show up, they won’t find you. So take the leap—share your work, tell people what you do, and trust that you’re more than enough.

Your action step: Pick ONE way to market yourself today—post something, reach out to a potential client, or share a past success. Even if it feels uncomfortable, do it anyway. You’ve got this!