The Most Common Reason Your Marketing Efforts Aren't Igniting Interest
Ever tried to start a campfire with damp kindling? You strike match after match, blow on tiny sparks until you're dizzy, and rearrange the logs hoping for different results. But that damp kindling won't catch fire no matter how much effort you put into it.
If your marketing feels the same way. If you’re putting out lots of effort but not seeing any sustainable results, you're probably facing the same fundamental problem: damp messaging.
The marketing disconnect entrepreneurs face
Many entrepreneurs who are building businesses after escaping the corporate system create "meh kindling.” Messaging that's technically accurate but doesn't ignite prospect interest.
And it’s not your fault. You spent years in corporate roles communicating capabilities, processes and methodologies to audiences who already understood the business context.
But as an entrepreneur, you're talking to prospects who don't care about your capabilities. They care about outcomes, experiences and transformations. They want to know “what’s in it for me?”
The difference between “damp” and “dry” kindling messages
Damp kindling messages describe what you do:
"I provide strategic consulting services"
"I offer professional photography"
"I help professionals achieve their goals"
Dry kindling messages describe what your clients experience:
"Help frustrated business owners sleep better by putting simple systems in place"
"Professional pictures that capture your vibe and attract customers"
"Transform Sunday evening dread into Monday morning excitement about tackling the work week ahead"
The simple framework that makes the shift easy
Change your message using this structure: I help [specific who] [do what] so they can [achieve what results]
The magic happens in that "so they can" part. That's where you shift from describing your capabilities to describing their transformation.
Testing your current messaging and positioning
Ask yourself: When someone hears you describe your business, do they immediately think "That's exactly what I need!" or do they nod politely and change the subject?
If it's the latter, you've got damp kindling that needs preparation before you spend another dollar on marketing campaigns, systems or tactics.
Your next steps
Your message is the kindling for your business fire. No amount of marketing structure or amplification can work if your fundamental message doesn't ignite interest immediately.
Start with the framework above. Test it in real conversations. Refine if needed. And watch how different the responses to your message become when your kindling is properly prepared to ignite interest.
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