I got an interesting email the other day from a woman named Sandy who is thinking of creating a sports analysis blog that she will eventually monetize (through affiliate marketing) by reviewing and recommending sports equipment.
Sandy claims to be very knowledgeable about sports. She was an athlete in her younger days and all her kids are heavily involved in sports. Her main concern, however, is that she is a woman and most popular blogs on this topic are written by men.
She read my blog post, “Being Anonymous Can Hurt You” and agreed with my points, but was concerned about revealing her picture/identity because she didn’t think men would take her content seriously (or at least as serious) if they discover she is a woman.
What I’ve learned is that there are always going to be people who will discriminate because of something, whether it’s your sex, age, race, religion, etc.
I cannot count the numerous “N word” comments I’ve received on my YouTube channel over the years. I even had a guy tell me he would have taken my information about making money online more seriously if I wasn’t black.
However, I believe that the benefits of displaying a picture and sharing a little about about who you are outweigh the negatives by far. It gives your site personality and also helps build a degree of trust with your audience — particularly if your goal is to earn an income from your site.
Of course, there are always going to be intolerant / ignorant people in this world who judge people on their appearance, but fortunately most people are not that way. People go online searching for information, entertainment, answers to their questions, etc. So if your site can help someone and provide value, most people are not going to care what you look like.
And as far as Sandy’s situation goes, being a woman could actually help in some instances. Many men will respect and be impressed by the fact she is a woman tackling a subject that is mostly dominated by men, and this could work to her advantage.
Will there be some who won’t take her info seriously because she is a woman? Perhaps, but as I said earlier, I think the advantages of providing information about yourself usually outweigh the disadvantages by far — especially if you know your stuff and have an interesting approach to the topic.
I’d love to open up a discussion about this. What are your thoughts? Have you ever thought about staying anonymous because you fear discrimination of any kind? What do you think Sandy should do?
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First of all I think it’s horrible you have to deal with racist comments on your YouTube channel, Lisa. We have come along way but we still have a long way to go! I personally could care less if the person was blue, purple or pink…. if they are giving me solid, honest info then I’m going to respect them. I agree though that Sandy should put her picture on her site. If she really does know her stuff like she said then most men aren’t going to care if she is a woman. I say go for it Sandy and show those men you can analyze with the best of them!!!
It seems to me that Sandy might have hit upon a very profitable niche. Surely women buy sports equipment? And what about single women raising boys? If I were her I wouldn’t hide my gender, I’d flaunt it!
Hi Lisa,
As Angie said, I think it is horrible that you have to listen to those racist B.S. comments from some one who is obviously a moron.
I found your site today and I must say that I am overwhelmed with all of the information. I have been a stay at home mom for fourteen years now and since September 2008 I have been trying unsuccessfully to generate an income from the internet so i can continue to stay at home with my two year old (my other two have gone off to school). To date, I have spent well over four thousand dollars trying to accomplish this.
With all of the information that you offer, I wonder if you have a step by step system for people to follow so that they can concentrate on each step as they go along(like benchmarks?) I am sure that you have provided this information on your site already(as I said I only found you today and I will be reading it over and over till I get it).Thanks for reading my message Lisa and i can’t wait to hear from you. Marina
I also want to say congratulations on your many successes.
I agree that it is better to be honest and put your picture up – I always relate to people more when I can see a bit about them – especially on the web.
Who knows she may get a demographic of people who want to know a mother’s point of view about sports equipment – afterall all mom’s of kids in sports have to buy it anyway – she could market directly to them – as well as men.
Then that wouldn’t be an issue at all!
And yes there are idiots out there that are racist, sexist and whatever – there are everywhere – especially on the net – those are the posts etc. that the “delete” button is for.
For Sandy’s situation I’m a perfect example of why she should not worry about revealing her identity…
If it’s just a matter of discrimination than I think she should definitely show her identity – I have a little 2 year old boy but I’m not into sports at all, never have been. So if I decide I want to get my son into sports than I’d probably find her blog very useful.
And I agree with Lisa in that it would probably work to her advantage as there is probably hardly, if not any other women doing it. – besides I’m sure a lot of moms are the ones doing the equipment buying. They’d be all over your site.
I’m going through a similar situation right now. I am an expert in my blog topic but I feel I run the risk of actually hurting my career if I reveal my identity. I’m a little concerned that others in my industry may not like what I’m saying or doing.
i am a guy (obviously), and when i watch sport i like, when i see women on it reporting they usually seem a bit dumb or uknowledgeable to me.
but.. if a woman would be good and informative, sure ! why not reveal herself ?
When I was younger I was a sports fanatic and I hated not being taken seriously by men I used to discuss sports with, so I understand where Sandy is coming from.
However, I think the situation of some men not taking women seriously as sports commentators will only be addressed if women like Sandy take the plunge and put themselves out there. If she writes great content, she’ll have nothing to fear.
There will always be ignorant **** out there. They are unavoidable, no matter what kind of blog you write.
I think being female will work to her advantage. Although sports commentary is dominated by men.. there are many women who love sports. We ought not to assume that her audience will be entirely male!
I think she should go for it..I have the same problem in the IT area. People in general do not think a women can fix a computer. Once they see what I know and compare it to others, they forget who I am. It is your knowlegde that will make you stand out, like Lisa stands out for what she has done.
I still have a problem on Youtube though. They can be very harsh on there. But don’t let them stop you because they are the ones with the problem.
I agree that YouTube is a tough crowd. Like Tips4pc said, I don’t let those people upset me because their ignorance is not my problem. They are the ones who are angry and have issues so they look to make others angry with their comments to fulfill their own unhappiness. I don’t give them the satisfaction and just hit the DELETE button.
I have learned from the great Lisa Irby that I should, and now do use video to personalize most of my websites. They can see who I am and hear my voice so they “know” me better. I grew to trust Lisa’s opinion because I could connect via video with a real person.
Being able to judge people by tone of voice and body language and what they say via video has to be the best thing short of meeting in person. A woman with a sports Blog – Sure. Make it more well informed and factual with good insights and men will listen.
After all if sexism is the problem, it may also be an advantage.
Turn it around and do better than a man would. My grandmother bet against my grandgfather on the televised Friday night boxing of years gone by and almost always picked the winner.
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She can do a test. Since Sandy can be a woman or man’s name — she should rotate an image of her and an image of her husband or son. Watch the stats for the answer. Just a suggestion.
I think its not necessarily a bad thing to be anonymous on a blog. Creating an identity (pen name) allows you to have a buffer against people that may not be well intentioned.
I was under the impression that the internet was supposed to be this great leveller. Where the small ‘guy’ can compete with the big boys. What does it matter if your male or female. As long as your website brings value you will do well.
As for me I’m facing the prospect of a website about nail care & nail art, hopefully with SBI, because ‘She who must be obeyed’ wants to develop that as a business. I’m happy – sitting in front of a computer all day with the wife’s blessing and making some money at the same time.
Go for it Sandy! Good job Lisa!
I KNOW EVERYTHING HAS BEEN SAID, but personally I believe in just revealing yourself no matter what you do. Let people decide whether or not they want to follow you. It’s their loss at the end of the day…
I believe that Sandy would do well to reveal her identity… she could be just the breath of fresh air and unique voice that that niche is looking for. My vote is to go for it!
I didn’t put any personalization on my site for quite a while; I just didn’t feel comfortable with it; but I didn’t even really know why! I think part of me was happy to be hiding behind anonymity… and no one had to know that I was a stay at home mom, sitting in my pajamas in front of my laptop!
I submitted my site for review with Lisa, who sent me a kind reply in which she encouraged me to add personalization. I decided to go for it and have enjoyed a higher number of page views per visitor and some great comments and feedback on my contact form. I’m glad I took Lisa’s advice and got over my “shyness”.
I totally believe that Sandy should just go for it and reveal her identity, thus revealing that she is in fact a woman. I don’t think that the blog will be any less succesfull. I wish you the best of luck Sandy.
As for you Lisa. I simply love what you do. You introduce people to blogging and website creating, so they aren’t just wondering in the dark.
As for the “n” comments, just ignore them. it’s simply not worth it. Apart from that. It’s your very character and something about you (maybe even the skin tone), that makes you, so pleasant to listen to.
Great work Lisa, Just keep it up.
As someone who grew up having a hard time dealing with criticism, I know it is difficult not to feel hurt by negative criticism. However, when someone makes a comment like the racist view you related, the first mental response to make internally is, “Well, that comment proves only one thing and that is the poor judgment of its author. So it means nothing.”
As one old white guy who has been pretty successful himself, let me say that Lisa Irby is one smart person and anyone who ignores what she says does so at their own loss.
As to being anonymous on the web (or anywhere else), it may have value in some cases but not in most of the situations discussed so far in my opinion. On a site like the one I do for the Douglas County (Minnesota) Master Gardeners it doesn’t matter who I am. But on any site where the integrity of the author matters, your personality and character coming through to your audience is your strongest asset.
Follow on Twitter: @jwall777
Hi Lisa
I’m not sure I’m in the best position to advise Sandy really…having just started a blog myself, I am still considering whether or not to put up my photo…however, my blog is a general one and not a niche one like Sandy’s…as such, I would imagine that in order to be taken more seriously by, and have a more personal connection to her audience, Sandy should display a photo and not go the anonymous route.
BTW, I find it absolutely ludicrous that someone, anyone, would still pass racist comments in this age and time…if u are ever in that situation again, and I hope u r not, just ask them who’s sitting in the White house…cheers Lisa
Follow on Twitter: @CarlaRose
Your experience was my biggest fear when someone told me that I should use a gravatar/avatar/photo when I first stated commenting on blogs and blogging myself. Now, I rarely converse with people on Facebook Twitter, Squidoo, blogs etc who don’t have a photo up. It’s like talking to someone who is behind a wall.
I think Sandy should definitely reveal herself.
Sandy should not stay anonymous. She must run her blog with her actual identity. The advantages of doing so shall far out weigh the benefit of doing otherwise.
I had the same question and did not ask. I’m planning to build a new website concerning family financial issues to help survive our dire economy. Being a mixed black American I was concerned posting my picture and making videos would hinder my growth. I’m still uneasy about the whole thing but being truthful is more important to my viewers.
Friends,
Blog is the place that we can share our ideas. its not a matter whether the blogger is male or female. so sandy may continue her blog with his original identity.
Thanks,
Ioffersearch.com Blogs – Just another Ioffersearch.com weblog
I hate people who are racist, i cant believe people have said that to you.
I also think Sandy should reveal herself since it may be a good thing for any women who enjoy sports. I know a few girls who skateboard which is good for the sport. But anyway i do believe that Sandy will benifit long term from revealing herself.
Jack
I think that Sandy shouldn’t worry about putting her picture up. Women are getting more and more into sports that used to be male dominated. I think it is great that she has an opinion and knowledge that she wants to share. I too think that I am athletic and so are my kids. I am the one who does the shopping for anything related to sports for our family. A womans opinion is just a valid as a mans. You go girl. Put your picture up for everyone to see !!!!!!!! I wish you the best.
Black, white, yellow or green should never matter. Lisa you a beatiful person inside and out and your advice is always top notch!!!
As for Sandy revealing herself as a woman I personally think a woman’s view of sporting goods will be a bit refreshing. As long as the information is directed towards her target, what others think does not matter!!
Wow Lisa,
Thank you sooooo much for all of the useful, and practical information. Your content is super rich. I have read a ton of information here. You obviously know your stuff, and I will be coming back to visit from time to time. Thanks again for the knowledge and keep up the great work.
Take care,
KF
Hey Lisa!
I have been using your website for a long time but this is the first time ever I am reading your blog posts and I am really finding them useful. I wish I had come here before and subscribed to your blog.
You brought a great question topic on the floor. I had the same problem as Sandy. Three months back what I started my blog I thought that I am just a 15 year old boy and no one will care for what. Now I have realized that you really need your picture in your blog. Now I understood that most people will not care if you are black, white, hispanic, pakistani or whatever if you have good information and that’s what I am working on.
Great blog Lisa!
I am looking forward to read from you.
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Mohammad Afaq
Free Website Traffic
Hi Lisa,
First I want to say I am black and I started relying on your Website the moment found it. Then I realized who you are and found your information even more trustworthy. In business matters women are more realistic and trustworthy, all the major scams now are commented by whom?
I agree that Sandy should not hide her identity.
I work with a female and she loves sports and gets in on the Football fantasy league at work and she is good and all us guys know it.
I’d also like to chime in that I’m a big sports fan myself and always compete with men in Fantasy Sports leagues online. Many of my guy friends have told me they think it’s cool that I know a lot about sports. Of course there’s the occasional woman joke every now and then but they know I know my stuff (well, sometimes). lol So I agree, John that most people will respect her knowledge and as I said earlier being a woman may actually work to her advantage.
And Mohommad, yes definitely put up that photo!
I agree that Sandy should not hide her identity. I tell my kids – if you have to hide who you are to do anything – it’s not worth doing! Be real. Authentic. It will help. Look at Oprah.
I definantly agree with the majority! Post your pic Sandy! You may initially recieve some negetive feedback, but stand your ground, and believe in yourself…and in the end you’ll be respected for that!! I have feared that posting videos/pictures would generate a neg. response b/c of looks but I’ve decided to give it a shot anyway!!
Wow! You have GOT to be kidding me! Someone actually said that they wouldn’t follow your advice because you’re black!?
I guess at the end of the day, it’s their loss, right? I mean, honestly, I’ve come to trust you and your information, because you put yourself out there and you’ve done a lot of hard work giving out free information. You wanted to help this person. How rude!
I want to make a website based on my views of religion, magic, and the like. At the same time, I am somewhat uncomfortable with having my name associated with such a taboo subject. I think it is dishonest to hide such a large part of my life from a potential audience, especially because it is something that is so important to me. I suppose it all stems from a feeling of insecurity.
i am a young guy reading this blog and was taken back by Sandy view. It is a huge market, a woman’s view and an opinion. It could be a entertaining simple comedy of a woman growing up with kids and sports. a story and the facts about the game. i find when men talk about foot ball it goes right over my head as they get into stats, and things that i can not enjoy hear as i barely have the basics. If you have a strong knowledge it will bring debates and drama bring people back to your site to argue lol It makes me think of blogs, magazine, websites for just for woman, teen pregnancy for woman, anyways it is a focus, a target. anyways it just an opinion. i would not be offended by a woman as they play hockey, baseball and every guys sports out there. The world is changing and out of 6 billion people i am sure you will have many people from many country’s. another thing is that not all cultures accept certain sports but if a mother wants to get some education on it, she might not fear going to another woman in that culture to learn or ask a question. Just a thought
Hi Lisa,
there is nothing wrong about a woman blogging about sports. I think we live in a great nation people have grown in their thoughts and if you are really good and know what you are doing then being a woman or being a person of color should not matter. Our nation proved that by electing the first African American President. I am proud of our Country.
Lisa I concur that it is horrible that you STILL have to deal with racism. Perhaps people also feel more free to let their racism and sexism and any other ism hang out when they are on the internet. It’s like a barrier that allows people to think of their fellow netizens as just another computer.
That said, I think it is very easy for everyone to sit around and say she MUST reveal her identity. If more women don’t take the plunge we’ll never advance, etc. However, given that this is *hopefully* this woman’s living we are talking about, and these are trying times, I really liked Yvette’s idea of running a test. And if the stats DO show that her husband or son had better numbers, don’t be anonymous… just be a ghost writer for your husband. Do I like it as a feminist? Hell no. If it was MY business though, that’s what I would do.
I can’t think of using anyone else identity. I disagree that women bloggers would not be taken seriously. If you are a master of your niche and have some useful content i don’t see why they would not be accepted.
Interesting topic, although rather moot since the person who posed the question goes by “Sandy”, an androgynous name. In my writings for my industry, when I tell a story, all the names I use are unisex, e.g. Terry, Dana, Chris, and so on… so readers can “relate”. Simply “being” Sandy is a perfect cover.
That said, had her name been, say, Mary: I still would “reveal” my gender and who I was (in as broad a sense as she wishes to choose) in my profile. I distrust those who hide basic info. After all a blogger is asking us to trust him/her…but without some sort of connection or even bona fides, why should I, if said blogger can’t even trust ME, the reader, with some basic human connections about her/him?
Of course, if the entire purpose of the site is to earn an income, believe me, I won’t be there anyway. I need to get VALUE out of my visits, and an anonymous blogger doesn’t offer that.
I am THRILLED top be supporting Lisa every step of the way, because A: She offers so much MORE value than my participation warrants and B: Because I feel a REAL CONNECTION with her. If SHE tells me something, I am 99% inclined to take it as gospel because I feel I KNOW her and TRUST her. If she had an old felt hat upside down on her sidewalk, I’d toss folding money into it every time I went by!
I am beginning employment in a semi-specialized field and have been looking for advice on how to be prepared as an incoming staff. Having found nothing, it has made me want to log my journey and hope to provide insight for future staff in my field.
I wanted to keep my identity hidden so that way I could be honest and frank about things I may encounter without fear of backlash from my coworkers if by some chance they happened to stumble upon it.
I have no intention of making this a center for complaints but my hope is for effective dialogue to be generated that will be an asset to future individuals like myself who are looking for a head-start and insight.
After what I have read here I am still torn on what I should do about my identity??
Thoughts would be so gratefully excepted.
OK. I just read this information about Sandy wanting to remain anonymous. I am appalled at the ignorant people in this world who have sent racist messages to Lisa! However, as a gay 59 yr. old man, I understand. I too am considering a website to include all my life stories as a young boy growing up in fear, making life decisions in fear and then after 30 yrs. of a fathful, but relatively sexless marriage (it did produce 2 wonderful children) my spouse died, and I decided it was about time I stood up for myself and told the truth to my family and anyone I thought would really listen and understand my situation.
I have been researching, doing tons of reading and refelcting on my life and the future for myself for the past 5 yrs. since my wife’s death. I feel I have something pertinent to say to other gay young men, older men, straight people, religious people and just about anybody. I am not an expert, but I have “walked in the shoes” for sure. I know what is in my heart and I feel the need to let it be known. I am not a radical or rebellious person by nature. I understand somewhat why people think the way they do about gay poeple. I used to travel in those circles with those people. They just didn’t know I was gay.
My problem is do I remain anonymous?? I have a family to be concerned about, and I have my own personal life to keep safe!! So, in a way, I am like Sandy, even though my reasons for anonimity may be different. I don’t have a website now, but feel compelled to start one. My vision is to help spread positive, and honest information about what “being gay” really is like. There are so man stereotypes out there that many people have tunnel vision about.
What do you and your readers think about such an idea? Is it a good one? Should I remain anonymous or not? How would I make money at such a website? It it too controversial?
I would appreciate any feedback.
Thanks everyone,
DON
Go for it Don. You don’t want to be dealing with people who can not accept you for who you are. A website detailing to difficulties that you faced could well be a source of encouragement for other who find themselves in similar situations. Not so many years ago ‘being gay’ was not socially acceptable but I’d like to think that the world, for the most part, has grown up. I know I have. Although my brother waited until I was completely drunk before he told me. He’s still my brother!
I understand whole-heartily about wanting to keep your identity secret and not show a picture. When I first start putting up my sites years ago for my different businesses I would not put up my picture because I did not want to not get business because I was black. But I have learned that for the most part people do not care what you look like as long as you know what you are doing and talking about. I also realized that if someone would discriminate against me because I was a black woman then those are not the type of clients I want anyway! She should post a pic and let people know she is a woman. I think it would be to her great advantage. I love sports and would love to read about it from another women’s point of view. I think men would appreciate the knowledge also.
[soapbox]
Well, for race and gender issues, both, I would like to remind all that Ms. Rosa Parks had to go to jail first… but she won the day in the end FOR ALL OF US.
I say this, because I was hesitant to place a picture of myself on my blog when I first started it. I have never had a decent picture of myself taken. I had nothing I thought was presentable. How can I be taken seriously when I don’t look “professional”–was my thinking. For one thing, I’m an OLD woman and you know how everybody feels about old women! But Yaro Starak convinced me otherwise, and it turns out to have not been a problem at all. I’m a “regular person” and folks seem to appreciate that.
As for being a woman in a typically male genre–again, I refer you to Ms. Rosa. If she hadn’t made the bold move she did, how far behind would we be in the race issue?
African-American people need to come forward. Women need to come forward–even at the risk of setting themselves back a little–to help us all overcome the idiotic thinking that seems to rule our lives.
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I understand how Sandy feels. I started in a male-dominated business in the early 70’s (mostly dealing with construction contractors). After many, many years working hard at developing my credibility in that industry, I was fortunate enough to run my own surety bond brokerage Very successfully for over ten years.
Go for it, Sandy ~ If you have a good grasp of your niche market (as I learned to do with help from my mentors)…you should share it with others. There are a lot of women out there that know a lot about sports and its about time they feel comfortable showing you don’t fear expressing your capabilities!
Good luck….And, thank you, Lisa, for all your wonderful vids and links…I think I’m finally able to pull it all together after flailing around like a beached fish for the last 11 months!!!
Warm Regards,
Joanne
So, some idiot wouldn’t listen to you because of your skin? All things considered, maybe that’s natural selection in action. No telling how much listening to you could have changed his life. Sigh.
Anyway, I’m loving the new design!
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I am a child of the 60’s and I have to admit that I had some apprehension about putting my picture up (I am a Black man). Despite my hard work and credentials, I felt like my message would get missed if I included my face. So instead of guessing, I did a split-test (my picture, no picture, and picture of a white male) to be sure. Surprisingly, it did not matter. In fact, the picture of the white male did worse.
I simply had to get over it and get on with it. What matters most is how you feel about yourself and whether you are providing value to your readers.
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You have got to be kidding me – you’d be taken seriously if you weren’t black? How about if you had long hair? Wore the more trendy brown slacks instead of the serious black slacks? Gah, there are some unlovely people out there.
I agree with the poster above – don’t just say it, flaunt it. The sooner people realize that people of all sizes, shapes, colors, genders, whatever have something to offer, the better!
Great post!
Follow on Twitter: @trishjones
Wow Lisa,
I’ve come across this so many times – people wanting to be anonymous for all sorts of reasons and whilst I’ve not “yet” been called the “N Word,” I’ve had people close to me suggest I shouldn’t use my photo because I’m black … and I might add … VERY proud! I was shocked and actually take the view, I’d prefer they knew who I was “female, black” or whatever before they try to do business with me.
I also had a VERY well known Internet Marketer who muddled me up with someone else called Trish, suggest I remove the photo I had on one of my sites and added … “it’s not that I have anything against black people, but …” I did write back and say, I have a problem because the black person in the photo is me and guess what, they never responded!
I agree, there are some ignorant people in this world and, we just have to live with them and get on with it but I get business online, I make money and in my view, Sandy should just go for it since she will attract those who do want to hear from her.
Trish
Trish Jones’s last blog post..When Outsourcing Goes Wrong …
The woman´s righit are a great troble of our times. The own woman think that your workers are less value than mens, but it is don´t a truth in societ. The woman don´t should wirte anonymous in your blog…. Mentalidade.
Stumbled onto this accidentally and hope everyone will forgive an aside. I truly feel compelled to say something about the deplorable comments Lisa has gotten on YouTube.
I’m a 70 yo white woman who grew up surrounded both by bigotry and misogyny. If it makes any difference, Lisa, I looked at your picture before I skimmed your post and all I saw was a lovely, confident young woman.
I’m so sorry those things were posted and am pleased to see your wisdom in considering the sources. Civil rights truly have improved by quantum leaps in my lifetime but nothing will ever be perfect — the world is and will always be 10% turkey.
This woman has now signed up for an RSS feed that doesn’t even pertain to me! But I have been a true techie since the early 70’s and you sound like a great bunch of people — I’m intrigued. ;-}
Follow on Twitter: @jwall777
I don’t have personal knowledge with the face factor in generating traffic the way Lisa does, and I can see her point. Building that trust may supercede all other concerns. But, personally, I’m looking for other ways to distinguish myself. Showing my face- err no. The first issue is that I have a young face, extremely young. Sure, it helps when asking for help, but as a general rule in life- I’ve learned that people judge me AUTOMATICALLY. They do not open their ears to hear the intelligence come through, or they couch what I have to say into a “bright, but still, a young person’s view,” that is, until they hear my real age. Then, their attention becomes redirected to how I stay so youthful..not, on the original conversation. So, at this point, if I were to put a picture with the age noted by it, the reader’s interest in my theme is quickly redirected to this issue, lol. That’s how real life works, and right now I have no reason to believe the internet wouldn’t result in the same.
Plus, in the internet world, my audience is exactly this type of person that has proven most judgemental in real life.. My content is relevant for.. Parents, Mom’s, and adult educated singles, people who want to hear their peers- not their children. The combination of “black- female, and extremely young looking” has a proven track record in terms of “open ears.” This is part of why I sought an internet career in the first place. And, for now at least, I’m going to choose to be creative with marketing my “personality,” not just my content.
Another thing to consider is how you personally react to prejudice. If you don’t easily brush it off easily, like Lisa, take that into account..and, consider how creativity can make you come alive to your audience, even, without a photo. I am a supersensitive person with a horrible talent for remembering bad experiences, and the nature of your post suggests you might be that way too. Once, again, I don’t have the “personalization-traffic” knowledge that Lisa does.. good luck in your decision.
Follow on Twitter: @jwall777
Just wanted to add that some of the most successful people in the world, had to go through a lot of struggle, had to be judged harsher than others from the start..and, some bypassed that drama with creativity. Generally, you will be scrutinized in ways that others will not be if you come out the traditional way. If you’re just so awesome that it doesn’t matter to you, that you override all the extra critique like an Oprah, per se..then, great, But, if you have reservations, you may want to consider other options besides the full blown “keepin it real” way.
One of my favorite inspirations is JK Rowling. She had full knowledge of the fact that she was not going to sell to the biggest buyer in her sci fi/ fantasy market (young boys), so she created an androgynous pen name. If she hadn’t made that decision, she may have still been extremely successful but more critically judged, which would have slowed her progress..and the public probably would not have caught on to her genius until much longer than we’ve seen happen. That is a repetitive theme in the way the world operates.
If you stand out in a way which life has taught you is just not going to bring you the success your work deserves..maybe, just letting your work speak for itself is the way to go. And, then, when you’ve already established yourself, slap a pic or a bio, or whatever on that front page.. BAM. You can still be authentic, but sometimes life requires a little strategy on your part..Just my opinion.
Follow on Twitter: @jwall777
Rosa Parks, Lisa Irby, Sandy the Sports Lady- three different situations.
I would venture to say that people from all over the world feel at a complete loss when thinking of website creation, and are very grateful to have a Lisa at the helm, no matter what she looks like. But, that warm comforting element that Lisa provides in her honest approach isn’t a necessary element in the sports world.. even, though, it is effective when newbies are coming into the scary overly technical world of website creation.
For sports, everybody is a commentator. Sandy has a lot of male competition. So, if they don’t want to see her female face, they can get info from the next guy on the corner.
Someone brought up Rosa Parks. For the most part, we just want to make income writing on subjects of interest, not spear head a movement. That thought aside, though..“Rosa Parks” was more of a strategist when it came to knowing her audience than any of us.
Like JK Rowling, and many web writers, Rosa Parks, accomplished the goal by creating an image. “The tired polite little old lady, Rosa Parks” was a pre planned image . Why? Because she knew what her audience responded to.. That’s smart marketing.
Everything from skin color, to clothing, to mannerism – all of this was taken into account to create a strategy which hit the mark with their target audience …the goal. Specifically, The SCLC (in which Rosa was a member) replicated the bus incident after a much darker skinned, much younger (and, rumored to be pregnant) teenage black girl did the same thing and got no press. That is when the SCLC began playing it out..choosing the circumstances, inviting cameras to document it, etc. (Rosa had been a black freedom fighter decades before, she wasn’t just any “tired old lady.”)
That was a whole lot of work. Those people couldn’t avoid posting pictures. If Sandy posts her pic, she may have to some extra work too…i.e. she may want to couch her bio with a story about a strong father figure who got her interested in it all, or a self effacing story which makes fun of women who are sports commentators.. Eww.. (Do I recommend that? No. BUT, Those strategies are no less gross than nit picking skin color to garner sympathy in the 60’s.)
Some people have touched on the fact that Sandy could be successful with sports women, SO TRUE. That is the whole point of identifying your market, and knowing what resonates with them. But, I got the impression from her question that speaking “from a female/ mom perspective” is not her goal.
At the end of the day, if she wants traffic from folks with a record of not wanting to hear a woman, she may to have to put some effort into sizing them up, and acting from that perspective…Just like Rosa Parks.
Follow on Twitter: @jwall777
Hey..I wanted to make note of the fact that the twitter account which is showing up on my posts does not belong to me. I don’t know how that’s happening. But, I guess everyone can clearly see that Elaine Drennan of Northern Ireland, is not a black female possessing an extremely young face, and looking to preserve her anonymity while writing on the net..
Thanks for the website Lisa. Your willingness to show your image has definitely played a role in my current goals. So, while I am (currently) unwilling to do the same, I do recognize the gift that it is..This is my last post on the subject (I promise)
Old teachers never shut up, they just find new audiences. I will also try to make this my last long comment but you guys have said such interesting things…. ;-}
If you think you get judged on appearance now, wait until you get old! I taught computer classes at a major university in 1972 and have stayed extremely active in technology ever since. But one look at me and people assume I still own a VCR with the date flashing. ;-} And you know what? That’s okay — it saves time by cutting out the riff-raff.
My daughter (who both played and coached Division I college teams) can out-talk any man I know on any sport he chooses so I like Lisa’s “I think the advantages of providing information about yourself usually outweigh the disadvantages by far — especially if you know your stuff and have an interesting approach to the topic.” If Sandy starts a blog, I know one family, both males and females, who would surely follow it if she’s interesting and knowledgeable.
Other comments that ring true because of personal life experience:
Cindy: “It seems to me that Sandy might have hit upon a very profitable niche. Surely women buy sports equipment? And what about single women raising boys? If I were her I wouldn’t hide my gender, I’d flaunt it!”
Melanie: “…afterall all mom’s of kids in sports have to buy it anyway…”
Nick: “…when i see women on it reporting they usually seem a bit dumb or uknowledgeable to me…” Judy – I often agree with this but think it has more to do with networks often hire these women on looks instead of ability. ;-}
ThemeGrrl: “However, I think the situation of some men not taking women seriously as sports commentators will only be addressed if women like Sandy take the plunge and put themselves out there. If she writes great content, she’ll have nothing to fear.”
Bujio: “At the same time, I am somewhat uncomfortable with having my name associated with such a taboo subject.” Judy – Are your subjects taboo or just not PC? Your blog — your opinions — people have the choice not to read what you say.
dreamer77dd: “i would not be offended by a woman as they play hockey, baseball and every guys sports out there.” Judy – Another niche for your blog, Sandy — I find that young men tend to be much more comfortable with women’s skills and intellect — bet most of them would judge on your content.
firedupblog: “…being a woman or being a person of color should not matter…” Judy – but the trick is that the individual has to believe that about himself/herself.
Joshua: “I wanted to keep my identity hidden so that way I could be honest and frank about things I may encounter without fear of backlash from my coworkers if by some chance they happened to stumble upon it.” Judy – Excellent point but you might want to be prepared — people who know you will eventually recognize your writing style and opinions. Been there, done that, found out which “friends” I shouldn’t have been hanging out with. ;-}
Don: “My problem is do I remain anonymous?? I have a family to be concerned about, and I have my own personal life to keep safe!! So, in a way, I am like Sandy, even though my reasons for anonimity may be different. I don’t have a website now, but feel compelled to start one. My vision is to help spread positive, and honest information about what “being gay” really is like. There are so man stereotypes out there that many people have tunnel vision about.” Judy – Does your family know you’re gay? Are your children old enough to understand and help you make an informed decision? As far as your idea being controversial, isn’t that true of any blog that is actually interesting? If you’re this unsure about a blog at the moment, have you looked into working with groups that support gay/lesbian/transgendered high school kids? Boy do those kids need understanding adults to talk to, Plus that could be a small setting (maybe in another city?) and might give you more insight into going public.
CJ: “African-American people need to come forward. Women need to come forward–even at the risk of setting themselves back a little–to help us all overcome the idiotic thinking that seems to rule our lives.” Judy – BRAVO! You mention that you’re older, CJ — my reward for aging is being politely outspoken without feeling guilty.
Trish Jones (quoting a 3rd party): ““…it’s not that I have anything against black people, but …” Ahhhh, the infamous “but…” — don’t ya just hate it?
T: “That thought aside, though..“Rosa Parks was more of a strategist when it came to knowing her audience than any of us.” Judy – So true — that was my era and my part of the country — she was one smart lady in every way. Love the way she took that “good ole boy” tactic generally reserved for city folk and turned it back on society.
Lisa: “I don’t give them the satisfaction and just hit the DELETE button.” Judy – Ah, if life only had delete and undo buttons!
You keep it real-don’t ya!
Follow on Twitter: @jwall777
My thought are that Sandy should reveal herself. After all, I find your site to be very personable as I feel like I know you and not just a “blogger”.
To be honest, I buy online maybe once per year as where my wife will buy several items per month. Sandy’s visual presence on her site will give visitors a welcoming feeling and will be more apt to buy something that she has suggested.
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In a perfect world, yes she should reveal herself. But I must be honest. First, it does depend on the particular sport. If she is talking about tennis, no problem. But Football is a different story. I don`t want to be offensive, but just give a straight opinion.
I think that her instincts are correct.
I dont think that she should be dissuaded from her gut feeling on this. She`s right!
It is hard for me to absorb what a woman is saying when she is reporting on Football. No offense; they just appear to me as jesting, and trying to fit in. Its hard to take them seriously.
I guarantee you that her instincts to stay in the closet is due to the fact that she has had a passion for sports her entire life and no one knows better than her how many times she has not been taken seriously about what she says on it.
Its probably a lot the same as a macho pro wrestler reporting at a bridal shower. Football is accompanied by men emotions and woman reporters fall short of this in their reporting. Its a man thing.
If she is passionate about what she reports, then why have this obstacle in the way. –Share the good news and keep your gender secret.
I went back up and read comments and reread the blog.
I agree that putting your picture there personalizes things and makes people feel more comfortable with you when you are reading your content. BUT…
Lisa has said that it is the ability to market well that will create success… and that is what Sandy wants is success.
I would just be a little creative and not reveal your gender.
It not a sexist thing. Its not a racist thing. Its a marketing thing.
I think a better targeted analogy is that it is more like taking your little brother with you to hang out with friends.
He doesnt fit in and he`s not taken very seriously.
Sandy is worried about not being taken seriously. I understand what she is saying and think that it is a valid concern.
I wouldnt suggest that she couldnt be successful eventually if she is real good. It will just take her a lot longer.
Be smart in your marketing. Its not sexist. Its not racist.
Its business.
Sandy is the expert and she knows sports. I agree with her.
Hi Lisa, I have been following you for almost a year and getting valuable information from you and I tell my friends about your great ideas I agree with you Lisa do not hide who you are, Sandy I would read your Blogg and have not problem with you being a woman my wife knows more about sports than me and that is one of the things I love about her.
Follow on Twitter: @silverlunace
Lisa -
I just found your website while searching for CSS tutorials and thought I’d post a comment even though this is an older post and has nothing to do with what I came here for! LOL
I think Sandy shouldn’t hide her identity – she should let the world know she’s a woman.
Now having said that, I also think there’s a fine line between revealing ones gender and coming across as an “in your face bad-ass”. This is really true for any subject, actually, not just sports. Generally, people who come across that way are perceived as offensive.
A subtle, “oh by the way, I’m a female and I love sports” is probably better than totally flaunting the fact that this blog is “owned, operated and written by a woman so look out! I’m here to show off!” kind of thing.
In other words, be intelligent, not a know it all. Just write well, ensure your readers you do have a handle on the subject and it really shouldn’t matter what your gender is. Same goes for race, orientation, nationality and any other factor.
It’s sad, though, that in this day and age, we still have to even ask the question, though, isn’t it? And people leaving rude comments on your YouTube channel because you’re black? Wow . . . not cool at all. So glad to hear you know exactly what to do with those kinds of ignorant morons.
I’m white but my husband and kids are Asian and I often tell the kids that when people make comments like that to them, they should reply “Oh, I’m sorry, your intelligence is showing.”
~Annie
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