How to Market Yourself Without Feeling Icky

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Let’s be honest: marketing yourself as a freelancer can feel… kind of gross.

You want to get more work, but you don’t want to be that person constantly shouting, “Hire me!” from the digital rooftops. You want to stay human. Real. Soft.

Good news? You absolutely can.

Marketing doesn’t have to be pushy, salesy, or soul-sucking. It can be an extension of your values, your personality, and the very heart of what you offer. Here’s how to do it—with zero ick.


1. Start With Why You Do What You Do

People connect to stories, not sales copy. So instead of leading with “I’m available for projects,” try:

“I help health brands translate complex science into real human connection—because information should feel like care.”

Rooting your message in purpose feels better and sticks with people.


2. Share the Process, Not Just the Portfolio

You don’t have to wait for a finished project to market your work. Show the behind-the-scenes:

  • A screenshot of something you’re editing
  • A quick lesson from a client call
  • Your thoughts on what makes a good user experience

This positions you as an expert without having to say “I’m an expert.” (Which… ew.)


3. Use “Soft Selling” Language

Instead of pressure-heavy phrases like “Only 2 spots left!” or “Book now before it’s too late,” try:

  • “I have a few openings this month if you’ve got something brewing.”
  • “I’d love to help bring your next idea to life—DMs are open.”
  • “If your brand needs a refresh, let’s chat gently about what that could look like.”

You’re inviting, not chasing. That’s the vibe.


4. Speak to the Problem You Solve

It’s not “I write landing pages.”
It’s “I help businesses turn visitors into customers—with messaging that feels human.”

It’s not “I offer social media management.”
It’s “I help busy founders show up online without burning out.”

Make it about them—but through your lens.


5. Create a Marketing Toolkit You Actually Like

Let’s be real—if you hate your About page or cringe at your IG bio, you’re never going to want to promote yourself. Build tools that feel aligned:

  • A voicey, no-fluff About page
  • A set of reusable soft-sell scripts
  • A portfolio that reads like a story, not a résumé

(Need help with those? I’ve got templates coming soon.)


📋 BONUS: Soft Marketing Script

Here’s one you can save and tweak as needed:

Hey [Name], just wanted to say hi and let you know I have a little room in my schedule this month. If you need support with [what you do], I’d love to help. No pressure at all—just keeping in touch and sending good energy. ✨

Kind. Clear. No ick.


Final Thought

Marketing yourself isn’t about being loud—it’s about being clear. It’s about letting people know you exist, what you do, and how you can help.

When you lead with heart, the right people will hear you.
And they’ll be so glad you spoke up.