I work with many small business owners just like you. Many of you share a common problem: the belief that the only way to be successful is to follow the corporate model and “hide” your true self from customers. That you need to adopt a professional and sterile personality, and reserve your true self just to play.

Nothing could be further from the truth about small businesses.

To be successful on your own terms, it’s vital that you forget everything you’ve learned in business about presenting yourself as a business owner. Success is not a one-size-fits-all. It comes in as many different sizes as there are small business owners. Decide for yourself what success means to you and move towards that. Create a version that fits your own lifestyle values, dreams, and hopes.

Potential clients are more likely to work with you when they feel like you’re being your natural self. Product and price will take a backseat to authenticity. Today more than ever, clients want to work with real people, people they can know, like, and trust.

Try to put yourself in your client’s shoes. Can’t tell right away when a business owner you’re considering working with seems artificial? Don’t you want to escape without signing on the dotted line?

Find true small business success by being yourself, standing out as the natural star that you already are. Your bright light will attract clients who want to work with someone like you!