Why They’re Not Converting (Even When They’re Loving Your Posts)

You know that feeling when you pour your heart into a post, hit "share," and watch the engagement roll in?

The likes, the comments, the “I love how personal this is” or “Your vulnerability is so powerful” messages?

It’s proof you’re doing something right.

You’re telling your story.
You’re being vulnerable.
You’re showing up as you.

And yet… crickets when it comes to sales or DMs asking how they can work with you.
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Why?

Because while your audience loves you, they don’t see themselves in your story.

The Big Storytelling Trap

So many entrepreneurs (especially us purpose-driven ones) think we’re nailing it because we’re being authentic. And don’t get me wrong—authenticity matters. A lot.
But authenticity doesn’t automatically equal conversion.
The truth?
When someone reads your story, they’re not subconsciously thinking, “Wow, what an inspiring person.” Well, they may be…but they’re also subconsciously thinking…

“Where am I in this story?”
“Does this solve my problem?”
“Can I trust this person to guide me?”
How to Make Them Feel SeenHere’s where you need to shift gears. Your story isn’t just about you—it’s a mirror.


Try this:

1. Make the reader the hero.
   Frame your story as if you’re guiding them on their journey. Show how you’ve walked the path and can light the way for them.
2. Speak their language.
   Use the words and emotions your audience uses to describe their struggles, desires, and fears. If they feel like you’re inside their head, they’ll trust you get it.
3. Share solutions, not just stories.
   The personal anecdotes are great for connection, but tie them to the tangible ways you can help. People want to know there’s a bridge between your story and their needs.
4. Ask yourself: What’s in it for them?
   Every time you write, ask, “What will this post make them feel, know, or do?”

Your Story Isn’t the EndgameIt’s the doorway. The real magic happens when your story opens the conversation and leads your audience to see how their story can change with you in it.

So, the next time someone comments, “This is so inspiring,” don’t stop there. Start asking how you can help them take the next step.
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And if you’re struggling with how to balance personal storytelling with powerful calls to action, let’s chat. Your audience is already engaged—they just need a little nudge to convert.

Stay curious,
🎈Justine

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Red Balloon Station is a creative hub for storytelling and brand messaging services that help BIPOC + women-owned businesses and creatives use the power of their words and storytelling to better strategically and meaningfully connect with their target audience so that together we can all have a more positive impact on people, planet, and culture.
Justine Wentzell-Chang is an Eldest Daughter of Immigrants, Mother, Activist, and brand storyteller/copywriter for phenomenal BIPOC + woman-owned businesses and creatives on a mission to change the status quo, create culture change, or save the planet! With a law degree, over a decade of experience writing & making movies that sell globally, an impactful book filling readers with “A Pocket Full of Dreams,” and a handful of songs written for indie films, Justine knows how to tell stories that sell like nobody else's business. And she is here to help you use the power of storytelling to grow your community, turn them into devoted superfans, and click the “yes” button on you.
Justine created Red Balloon Station, because for too long someone else has been inaccurately writing or erasing our BIPOC and women's stories. It’s time to direct our own narratives so that together we can create a culture of empathy, equity, and positivity.