Content creators and social media experts (that’s us, hello!) talk a lot about things you need. You need consistency, you need content pillars, you need clear videos. But has anyone said you need to find your voice? Are people talking about how important it is to find your unique voice as a creator?
Raising your voice is what helps you stand out as a social media creator. You may have the perfect content plan or an incredible filming setup, but that can’t outperform your personality. Even if you think your personality isn’t anything special, it’s what keeps people coming back. They don’t just love your videos; they love you.
In this article, we’re walking you through how to find your voice and make it shine, no matter your niche.
Finding Your Voice 🎙️
We’re not going to make you think about what makes you different. You’re not going to have to list what parts of your personality you want to have in your content. You’re going to have to do something a little scarier.
Open Your Camera and Start Talking 📸
Don’t worry; you never have to post any of these videos. And yes, we want you to do this several times.
Set your camera up in a stable spot and start recording yourself just talking. Record yourself unpacking your groceries, talk about your most recent project, or vent a little bit. The goal is to get comfortable talking on camera – and, ideally, making a point. Go back and rewatch the videos to see what you said and how you sound. At first, you’ll look and sound a little stiff. As you get used to being in front of the camera, however, you’ll relax. Eventually, your true voice will shine through, not the one you think you should use.
Create Consistently ⏰
Roll your eyes, we get it. But creating content you love consistently will help you find your voice.
What Works ✅
Consistently recording, editing, and posting content helps you figure out what you like. You’ll see topics or themes you come back to; that’s part of your personality! There might be a setting or style that feels the most natural. Getting into the habit of creating content helps you find comfortable patterns that make being yourself possible.
What Doesn’t ❌
You’ll notice when something isn’t right about your content. Maybe reciting from a script makes you feel too formal. Or you might need a script to not derail out of nerves. You might love to watch video essays, but they could feel off for you. Create what interests you, watch it back, and see what you think. If it feels fake or off, it’s time to regroup.
Adjusting 🔧
Just like with our first tip, creating content helps you get comfortable. As you create, you get used to being on camera, and you start to act more like yourself. Even if you aren’t meaning to, you’ll find (and refine) your voice over time.
Topics Your Voice Will Love 🧡
It’s easy to turn on the camera, but not everyone is a natural-born yapper. Some of us need a little extra push! Here are some video topics that can help you find your voice.
- Introduce your pet. Grab your fur-child and tell us a little about them. How did you meet? What do they do? Are there any silly routines you two have? Spend some time (thirty seconds, a minute, even five minutes) telling us about your little bestie.
- Unpack your groceries/pantry. This isn’t nearly as interesting as a cute cat or funny fish, which is the challenge. You’re just yapping about food! Tell us what you bought as if you were on FaceTime with a friend. Not into food? Talk about books, or skincare, or video games.
- Talk about your passions. Is there a video game you’re loving? Or maybe a book you can’t put down? Are there any movies, TV shows, or even content creators you really like? Record a video telling us why. Make as many as you need.
- Vlog something. Don’t worry about making your videos perfect, but practice recording and talking during the day. You might hate it, which is fine. But you’re narrating something in real time and talking to a camera. It’s good practice for storytelling and getting comfy.
- Pre-event chat. If you’ve got a date, a family event, or even a doctor’s appointment, block out some time before and catch us up. How are you feeling? Are you looking forward to seeing anyone? What are you wearing? Again, pretend you’re yapping with a friend on FaceTime.
None of these videos ever has to see the light of day. If you’re like us, you’d die if anyone heard the voice you use to talk to your dog. The main thing is that you need to get comfortable talking on camera. You might find that yapping about your hobbies is fun and feels a little like a video essay. Or maybe you actually love vlogging. Video games might be a topic you love discussing.
Explore different topics and formats to see what sticks.
Refining Your Voice ✨
Once you know what your voice sounds like, it’s time to make it shine. Here are three ways to make it stand out.
- Find your video style. There will be a type of video that fits best with your voice. Use it.
- Choose your content pillars. Find the topics, themes, or communities you want to talk about.
- Know your audience. Who do you want to speak to? Who is your audience for?
You won’t have final answers to this overnight. Your style may evolve and change, or you may discover new pillars you prefer. Just keep these in mind and pay attention to any patterns that evolve.
If, however, you have answers to all of these, then you’re ahead of the game.
As A Note 🗒️
Your voice as a creator might not be 100% your regular person voice. That’s fine!
A lot of creators like having a little difference between who they are and who we see on social media. That can be the same for you, too. As you get more comfortable on camera, you might notice there’s a slight difference between you and your social media self. That doesn’t mean you’re fake or need to try harder. If a voice feels natural and authentic to you, then it’s still you.
And if it makes creating content easier or more fun and isn’t hurting anyone, then why not?
