Stop acting.

As an actor, one of the most important lessons I learned early on was the difference between "acting" and simply "being." My first commercial gig was a prime example of this. I was cast as a business person in a meeting, and my job was to portray someone who was bored out of their mind. However, in my eagerness to prove myself as an actor, I ended up over-selling the bored expression and coming across as inauthentic. (Actual gig 👇)

That's when the director, Jeff Venable, stepped in and gave me some invaluable advice. He said, "Danny, stop acting bored. You just are bored." In that moment, I realized that the key to being a great actor is not to try and act but to simply be. Let the camera capture you as you truly are, rather than trying to put on a show.

It's a simple concept, but one that can be difficult to master. As actors, we're often taught to put on a mask and play a character. But the truth is, the best performances come from those who can let go of the mask and be themselves. This is where true emotion and connection with the audience comes from.

In my experience, the best way to achieve this is to approach every role with authenticity and honesty. Don't try to be someone you're not; let the character come through you, rather than trying to force it. And always remember to trust the process and trust your instincts.

Being an actor is not just about putting on a show, but about being authentic and vulnerable. When you can let go of the need to act, you'll find that the camera captures your true self, which makes for a more powerful and impactful performance.

Acting in business

The same principle of authenticity and vulnerability applies to the corporate world as well. In today's business landscape, where transparency and authenticity are highly valued, it's important for leaders to be genuine and true to well, being human.

In the Nashville corporate world, leaders are often expected to put on a façade of confidence and competency, but this can lead to inauthenticity and disconnection from employees and colleagues. Instead, true leadership comes from being vulnerable and transparent, showing one's weaknesses and mistakes, and leading by example.

Just as an actor's best performances come from when they can let go of trying to act, a business reaches its audience more powerfully when it finds its human voice and connects with other humans. So Nashville, how does this affect how you show up online with your media?

Ways to show up online.

Interviews

There is a time for an interview, especially when the host is a professional and something more compelling will be drawn out in conversation. Of course, that has the traditional interview look where the “talent” (your boss…or you) is looking off-camera, at the person conducting the interview. The audience watching your media is a fly on the wall so to speak, watching a conversation. That might just be perfect! This sets up credibility, as people being interviewed are typically experts or people that have something compelling to say. Think 20/20 or, Oprah.

However, businesses are simply paying for someone to interview them so they can sell something. I’m not criticizing here. It’s an honest attempt to do something other than a direct ad, and again, there is absolutely a time for it. I’m saying that the world is picking up on false interviews. They know they are being marketed to.

Vlog Style

I’m going to spare you the history lesson on one of the founding fathers of “vlogs”, Jawed Karim, but this little man, (and founder of youtube) changed the world. He broke the 4th wall, looked into the camera, and told us about elephants. (Not to mention launch the greatest platform for at-home content creators in the history of mankind).

If Jawed brought the everyday guy to the mainstream, Casey Neistat built on that and made it cool. He offered solutions for common problems in the world and was undeniably relatable. He spawned a whole race of “youtubers”, who looked into the camera, reviewed products, and took us on adventures.

How does this affect the media you create?

Thanks to social media and youtube, audiences are now tuned to the voice of the relatable friend, looking at them through the camera, and helping them solve their problems. Here are some ways to be more authentic with the media you create for your business:

Know your brand values: Define what your company stands for and make sure this message is conveyed in all your media. This will help ensure consistency and authenticity in your messaging.

Show your personality: Allow your brand personality to shine through in your media. People connect with other people, so make sure your company's media has a human touch.

Use real images and testimonials: Instead of using stock photos or models, use real images of your products and customers to showcase the genuine benefits of your products. Similarly, use real customer testimonials to showcase your company's impact.

Stay true to your brand voice: Consistency is key when it comes to creating authentic media. Make sure your brand voice is consistent across all platforms, whether it's social media, website, or any other channels.

Be transparent: Be honest and open about the challenges your company faces, as well as your successes. This will help build trust with your audience.

Authentic storytelling: Instead of focusing on the hard sell, focus on telling a story that connects with your audience. This can help you create content that is more engaging and memorable.

Collaborate with influencers and partners: Find influencers and partners who align with your values and brand, and collaborate with them to create media that is both authentic and impactful.

Whatever you do, create media that is authentic and connects with your audience, helping to build trust and credibility for your business.

#humanizeyourbrand

Danny Valdes, Founder; Be Human

Danny is an actor, host, and founder of Be Human. He helps brands show up online in a way that builds trust.