StoryBrand Marketing Agency
Is Your Marketing Message So Confusing Even Your Own Mom Doesn’t Get It?
We're an award-winning StoryBrand Marketing Agency that helps Service Businesses clarify their messaging so everyone wants to work with you!
✓ Build trust and authority in your industry
✓ Connect with CLIENTS WHO ACTUALLY GET IT
✓ MARKETING THAT FEELS NATURAL
WATCH THIS VIDEO
If your message isn’t landing—and the right clients aren’t showing up—it’s not your fault. Most service business owners are great at what they do. They just struggle to talk about it clearly.
In this video, I’ll walk you through how we fix that using the StoryBrand Framework, plus how to get started with either DIY or done-for-you options.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR MESSAGE ISN’T CLEAR
Can your mom explain what you do?
Can you easily explain what you do?
Can anyone?
If not, that's the problem we fix.
Because when people don’t understand what you do, they move on. You end up working harder just to stay in the game.
You’re always re-explaining yourself
Your website doesn’t convert visitors into clients
Your leads aren’t the right fit
Referrals become scarce
Marketing is frustrating as all hell
But it doesn’t have to be this way. A clear message makes all of that easier. It’s the difference between chasing leads—and attracting the right ones.
You might not believe it yet, but marketing can actually be the opposite of frustrating when you're doing it right.
MAKE YOUR MARKETING Simpler
Whether you want to learn the system or hand it over completely, the goal is the same: clear messaging that brings in better clients with less effort.
A DIY SYSTEM THAT’S SIMPLE TO FOLLOW
for weekly group coaching, templates, and a proven system that fits seamlessly into your week—without taking over your life.
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COACHING THAT MEETS YOU WHERE YOU ARE
Want someone to walk you through it? Get 1:1 or team coaching to clarify your message and apply the StoryBrand Framework to your business in real time.
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DONE-FOR-YOU MARKETING
Too busy to do it yourself? We’ll build your messaging, write your copy, create the assets you need, and handle your StoryBrand marketing—so you can stay focused on running your business.
HI, I'm Vicky Sidler
And I’VE BEEN WHERE YOU ARE
I know how it feels to stare at your marketing and think, “Why isn’t this working?” That's why I created a StoryBrand Marketing Agency.
All in all, your business isn’t just another brick in the wall—it’s something special. Your story matters, and I’m here to help you share it in a way that feels real, connects with people, and gets results.
As a certified StoryBrand Guide, I specialize in turning complicated ideas into clear, compelling messages that resonate with your audience.
With a background in journalism, I’ve spent decades telling stories that matter and crafting content people want to read.
I’ve developed a proven system to help businesses like yours cut through all the AI trash that's out there and build genuine connections with their audience.
Your story isn’t just important—it’s the reason people will choose your business. Let’s make sure it’s heard loud and clear by the people who need it most.
And sorry if I got Pink Floyd stuck in your head just now...
Hear Directly from DONALD MILLER
In this short clip, StoryBrand’s founder Donald Miller explains why clear messaging and a simple marketing plan change everything.
Donald shares why newsletters are back, what a full StoryBrand campaign includes, and how a certified guide helps you focus on what actually works—without wasting money or time.
Watch to see how working with a StoryBrand Certified Guide can make a measurable difference for your business.
EVERYTHING STORYBRAND, ALL IN ONE PLACE
Whether you need help with strategy, websites, content, or SEO, I offer the full range of StoryBrand marketing services—done with you or done for you.
StoryBrand Framework
StoryBrand Wireframe
StoryBrand Websites
StoryBrand SEO
StoryBrand Video
StoryBrand Copywriting
StoryBrand Email Sequences
StoryBrand Marketing Funnels
StoryBrand Workshops
StoryBrand Consulting
StoryBrand PPC
StoryBrand Lead Generation
StoryBrand
Social Media
StoryBrand Strategy
StoryBrand Content Marketing
StoryBrand Local Service
StoryBrand Coaching
MARKETING THAT DOESN’T TAKE OVER YOUR LIFE
Whether you want to build it yourself or hand it off completely, as a StoryBrand Marketing Agency, we’ll give you a clear message and a simple system that actually works.
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BOOK A COFFEE CHAT
This is a no-pressure, non-sales call where we discuss what’s working, what’s not, and where you want to go.
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CHOOSE YOUR PATH
Get hands-on support through the StoryBrand Course, 1:1 or team coaching, or let me build the entire marketing system for you—messaging, website, emails, and more.
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FIX YOUR MARKETING
Walk away with a message that resonates, a plan that’s easy to follow, and marketing that works while you sleep and finally delivers results.
COFFEE’S ON ME (OK, NOT REALLY)
But I'm serious about helping you connect with your audience. Let’s grab a coffee (on Zoom) and chat about your marketing goals.
Wondering how to simplify your message? Let’s talk.
Ready to stand out in an AI-saturated world? I’ve got ideas.
Just need clarity? I’ll help you see the big picture.
This isn’t a sales call—just a friendly, low-pressure chat. At the very least, you’ll walk away with some cool ideas you can try on your own.
SCHEDULE YOUR COFFEE CHAT WITH ME (VICKY) TODAY
FIXING YOUR MARKETING SHOULDN’T FEEL IMPOSSIBLE
Most small business owners aren’t marketers—they just want to explain what they do in a way that makes people care.
But when the message isn’t clear, everything else gets harder: websites don’t convert, leads go cold, and social posts fall flat.
You might worry that getting it right will take too much time, cost too much money, or feel like just another online course you’ll never finish.
That’s why I offer three simple paths: do-it-together support through the StoryBrand Course, 1:1 and team coaching, or done-for-you services where I build your full funnel myself.
You’ll get clear messaging, practical templates, and real support—so your marketing finally works and your business actually grows.
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
We know marketing can feel overwhelming, and you probably have questions. That’s why we’ve put together answers to the things people ask us most.
What makes Strategic Marketing Tribe different from other StoryBrand marketing agencies?
We’re the StoryBrand marketing agency that skips the boring "corporate speak." We blend the power of StoryBrand with strategic marketing solutions to craft content that feels human, genuine, and impossible to ignore.
How can your strategic marketing solutions benefit my business?
Our strategic marketing solutions simplify your message, clarify your brand story, and help you connect with your ideal customers. It’s marketing that makes sense and gets results – no jargon, no gimmicks, just growth.
What is StoryBrand, and why does it matter?
Think of StoryBrand as a cheat sheet for marketing clarity. It helps you explain what you do in a way that makes people stop, listen, and say, “Oh, I get it.” We use it to create marketing that feels human and that your audience will actually enjoy reading.
Do I need to be familiar with StoryBrand to work with you?
Not at all! Whether you’re a StoryBrand superfan (like us!) or have no idea what it is, we’ll walk you through everything. We’re here to make the process simple, clear, and (dare we say) fun.
How do I know if this is right for my business?
If people keep saying “I don’t really get what you do,” or you’re getting the wrong kind of leads, it’s a sign your message needs work. That’s what we fix.
What if I don’t have time to take a course?
The course is built for time-strapped business owners. You get short lessons, plug-and-play templates, and live support so you’re never stuck or overwhelmed.
What’s the difference between the course and the done-for-you service?
The course gives you training, tools, and weekly support so you can do it yourself. The done-for-you option means I build your whole funnel for you.
How long does it take to see results?
Most people see clearer messaging and better engagement within a week of applying the one-liner. Bigger results (like leads and conversions) follow as you apply it across your marketing.
What if I’ve already tried StoryBrand and it didn’t work?
Many people try to apply StoryBrand on their own and miss key parts. This course walks you through it step-by-step, with real examples and live feedback from a Certified Guide.
STORY, MEET STRATEGY
Let’s make marketing feel less robotic and more real. Find resources from a StoryBrand Marketing Agency that bring your message—and your business—to life.
How To Talk About AI In Job Interviews Without Sounding Replaceable
By Vicky Sidler | Published 16 December 2025 at 12:00 GMT+2
If you've ever felt like saying "I use AI" in a job interview is the same as saying "A robot could replace me," you're not alone. In fact, you’re in a growing crowd of otherwise smart, capable people nervously wondering how to admit they’ve been working with ChatGPT without being shown the door.
Turns out, the trick isn’t hiding it. The trick is explaining it well.
According to new insights from Social Market Way, three-quarters of knowledge workers now use generative AI on the job. Hiring managers are catching on. And contrary to popular fear, 54% of UK hiring managers prefer candidates with hands-on AI experience.
The issue isn’t if you use AI. It’s how you describe it.
Let’s break that down.
TL;DR:
Don’t hide your AI usage during interviews
Focus on how AI helps you be more efficient, not how it replaces your skills
Be specific, not vague
Always position yourself as the decision-maker
Use examples with numbers
👉 Need help getting your message right? Download the 5-Minute Marketing Fix
Table of Contents:
How To Talk About AI In Job Interviews Without Sounding Replaceable
Why This Matters For Small Business Owners Too:
1. Frame AI As Your Admin, Not Your Brain:
2. Get Specific About Workflows:
3. You Are Still The One In Charge:
4. Yes, You Can Use AI For First Drafts:
5. Don’t Just Say It’s Better. Prove It.
6. Don’t Claim Magic. Explain Judgment.
1. OpenAI’s $27B Loss Could Tank the Whole AI Industry
2. Ideal Client Profile: The Marketing Shortcut Small Businesses Miss
3. Brand Guidelines for Small Business
4. Marketing Hourglass Explained: A Smarter Way to Grow Your Small Business
Frequently Asked Questions About Talking About AI In Interviews
1. Should I admit I use AI in my work?
2. What’s the biggest mistake people make when talking about AI?
3. How do I explain my AI use without sounding lazy?
4. Can I mention AI in creative roles?
5. What do hiring managers want to hear?
6. How specific should my examples be?
7. Is it better to use numbers when talking about AI?
8. Can this advice apply to client meetings too?
Why This Matters For Small Business Owners Too:
Even if you’re not job-hunting, chances are you’ll be hiring or pitching sometime soon. If you’re using AI in your business (and if not, you probably will be), you need to know how to talk about it without losing trust.
Clients and customers, like employers, want to know you’re using AI as a tool—not as a crutch.
1. Frame AI As Your Admin, Not Your Brain:
Imagine saying, “AI helps me schedule meetings, format reports, and summarize research so I can focus on strategy and client conversations.”
Now imagine saying, “AI does all the work.”
Same tool. Completely different impression.
Letting AI take on the boring stuff shows you know how to prioritize real value. It shows maturity, not laziness.
2. Get Specific About Workflows:
Don’t say, “AI helps me be more productive.” That’s like saying, “My phone helps me do things.” It means nothing.
Instead, walk people through how you use AI on real tasks.
For example: “I used AI to scan 50 competitor websites in 30 minutes, spotted gaps in their messaging, and built a campaign around what they missed.”
That shows you’re strategic. And time-aware. Two things every client and employer appreciates.
3. You Are Still The One In Charge:
AI doesn’t think. You do. That’s the whole point.
Make it clear that you review, shape, and own whatever the machine spits out.
Say things like, “I use AI to draft a structure, then rewrite it completely based on our brand, audience, and tone.”
Or: “I treat AI output as raw material. I refine it with industry knowledge and intent.”
This makes you sound like a decision-maker, not a shortcut-taker.
4. Yes, You Can Use AI For First Drafts:
Just don’t stop there.
Using AI to beat the blank page is a time-saver. But nobody needs to know you hit copy-paste and walked away.
Say, “I use AI to get past the blank page, but then I refine everything manually for clarity, tone, and purpose.”
This is especially useful for writers, marketers, and anyone who has to explain things well.
5. Don’t Just Say It’s Better. Prove It.
One of the best ways to sound like you know what you’re doing is to show results.
How much time did AI save you?
How much did it improve accuracy?
What changed after you added it to your process?
Try something like, “After adding AI to my content workflow, I jumped from 15 to 25 articles a month while keeping a 95% client approval rating.”
Short. Measurable. Powerful.
6. Don’t Claim Magic. Explain Judgment.
This part’s important. If you say “AI writes my content,” most people will mentally file you under “easily replaced.”
If you say, “I use AI to spot patterns faster and spend more time thinking about the right strategy,” you sound smart. Because you are.
As Yassin Aberaa, Founder and CEO of Social Market Way, says:
“The biggest mistake candidates make is either hiding their AI usage completely or overclaiming what AI does for them. Both approaches backfire.”
The same applies to freelancers, small business owners, and anyone talking to clients.
If you want trust, explain your decisions, not just your tools.
What To Do Next:
Whether you’re interviewing, hiring, or explaining your work to clients, the way you talk about AI matters. Confidence without specifics sounds fake. Specifics without strategy sound small. But strategy with results? That sounds like someone worth working with.
And if that’s the kind of impression you want to make, the best place to start is your message.
Get my 5-Minute Marketing Fix to help you write one clear sentence that says what you do and why it matters.
Related Articles:
1. OpenAI’s $27B Loss Could Tank the Whole AI Industry
If you're using AI as part of your value proposition, it's worth understanding the risks behind the tools themselves. This one gives you critical context on the economic instability behind the scenes.
2. Ideal Client Profile: The Marketing Shortcut Small Businesses Miss
Your ability to speak clearly about AI hinges on knowing who you're speaking to. This post shows how to identify your audience—whether it's a hiring manager, client, or investor—and tailor your message accordingly.
3. Brand Guidelines for Small Business
When you say you refine AI output for tone, style, and voice, this article helps you actually define what that means. A must-read if you want to back up your claims with real brand strategy.
4. Marketing Hourglass Explained: A Smarter Way to Grow Your Small Business
You mentioned using AI to build campaigns. This article gives you the bigger-picture framework to make those campaigns stick. A practical next step for turning tools into real growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Talking About AI In Interviews
1. Should I admit I use AI in my work?
Yes, but be smart about how you say it. Focus on how AI helps you work more efficiently, not how it replaces your skill. Employers value judgment, not shortcuts.
2. What’s the biggest mistake people make when talking about AI?
Saying “AI does everything for me” or acting like you never use it at all. Both extremes make you sound either replaceable or dishonest.
3. How do I explain my AI use without sounding lazy?
Use specific examples. Say what tasks AI handles (like admin or research summaries) and how you take ownership of the final output.
4. Can I mention AI in creative roles?
Yes, especially if you explain how you use it to brainstorm or structure drafts, but always highlight the human decisions and creativity you bring to the final product.
5. What do hiring managers want to hear?
That you’re using AI to save time and improve quality—but that you still own the thinking, strategy, and judgment.
6. How specific should my examples be?
Very. The more specific you are about your workflows and results, the more competent and confident you’ll sound.
7. Is it better to use numbers when talking about AI?
Absolutely. Metrics like time saved, output increase, or error reduction show real value and help you stand out.
8. Can this advice apply to client meetings too?
Yes. Clients also want to know you’re using AI responsibly. Frame it as a productivity tool that supports your expertise, not a robot doing the work.
9. What if I use AI but don’t feel like an expert?
You don’t need to be an expert. Just show that you’re thoughtful, intentional, and capable of improving what AI gives you.
10. How can I sharpen the way I explain what I do?
Start by clarifying your overall message. Download the5-Minute Marketing Fix and create one strong sentence that explains your value clearly.
Is your Marketing Message so confusing even your own mom doesn’t get it? Let's clarify your message—so everyone wants to work with you!
Created with clarity (and coffee)