When it comes to sales, self-promotion, and advertising I have a lot of work to do and I need to learn to be more of a balanced mix of introvert and extrovert aka Ambivert (a mix of both). Currently I don’t have the tools or resources needed to fully develop these skills outside of a few books and Videos, but I do have a general idea of how I wanna go about it on social media once I do.
The Importance of Knowing the road you wanna walk
Knowing the style of self‑promotion you want to use on social media matters more than you may realize because it becomes the backbone of how people recognize you, trust you, and decide whether to follow your work long‑term. A crystal-clear style gives your audience something consistent to latch onto your tone, your pacing, your personality, your aesthetic, your visual / music choices, the way you talk about your life story or your craft. When you’re intentional about that style, you’re not just going out there and posting at random; you’re building a recognizable presence that feels coherent across platforms. That coherence is what ultimately turns casual scrollers into people who remember who you are, share your work, and come back for the next episode your personal Tv show.
It also shapes your growth. Different styles will attract different communities: some people will respond to high‑energy, personality‑driven content; others will want a quieter, reflective voice; others could want a bit humor, cozy vibes, or maybe even polished professionalism. When you know the lane, you’re growing into, you can make choices that reinforce it, what stories you tell, how you frame your wins and struggles, how you show up visually, and how you talk about the wares you are peddling (skillsets, services, knowledge, & products). Instead of chasing trends or trying to be everything at once, you’re building a brand that will feel natural to you and sustainable over time.
The Style I’d like to develop for self-promo & Advertisements
Low Budget Maximalism (commonly found in the used car commercial aesthetic & of the 1990’s and early 2000’s) These ads lean heavy into a DIY, local‑celebrity, “we shot this in the parking lot” vibe. They’re purposefully rough around the edges, and that roughness is the charm.
Hyperactive pacing: jump cuts, zooms, and graphics that slam onto the screen like they’re trying to wake you up.
Over-the-top announcers: shouting, gravelly voices, exaggerated enthusiasm, the cadence of a carnival barker or auctioneer.
Low-budget visuals: harsh lighting, blown‑out colors, cheap chroma key effects, clip‑art explosions, star wipes. (Always really loved seeing these in these types of commercials growing up)
Local flavor: The owner yelling into the camera, mascots in bad costumes, regional slang, “come on down!” energy.
The Overall vibe
It’s essentially blue‑collar surrealism: a world where a person in a cowboy hat screams about APR financing while inflatable tube men thrash in the background. It’s chaotic, funny, and a little desperate but undeniably alive. (For what this style lacks in high budget polish it more than makes up for in character, spirit, nostalgia, & creativity)
Example of used car commercial
Monster Truck Rally Commercials: Apocalypse-as-Entertainment
These are the heavy‑metal cousins of used‑car ads which are much louder, darker, more theatrical, but built around grand spectacle.
Gravel-throated voiceovers: the iconic “SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY!” cadence, like a prophet announcing the end times. (like this and can maybe use a similar strategy for promo videos on IG)
Working‑class Americana: The trucks in these ads, deals, dirt, and spectacle creates a powerful sense of community for those of a blue-collar background.
Perfection not required: The imperfections make these sort feel ads feel human, weird, and yet unforgettable by the end.
The Overall vibe
It’s post‑Reagan spectacle culture: part demolition derby, part pro‑wrestling, part heavy‑metal album cover. Everything is dialed to 11. It’s not selling a product instead these ads sell adrenaline and the fantasy. (I don’t think I’ll be able to use every aspect of this formula, but I think the parts about selling adrenaline and fantasy can definitely be utilized for posts revolving around travel or having fun experiences for sure)
Example of Vintage Monster Truck Ad
Secondary example of Monster truck ad circa 1998
I’ve always believed in showing up with heart when the chips are down, even when the odds are stacked. Right now, I’m navigating food insecurity and housing instability while building toward a new and brighter future for myself. If my work, my words, or my story have resonated with you, I’d be deeply grateful for any support you can offer. Every donation helps me stay fed, cover transportation fees, and buy much needed resources while I finish out my enlistment and stay focused on the path ahead. Even $1 makes a difference.