Two Books - Career Altering

Those of you who know me know that I'm not much for "self-help" books. Right now some of you are thinking, "Oh, but you should be!". I get it. Most of what I write about is marketing/advertising/branding because it is what I know. Being a journalist that is focused on business has me always seeking the back-story to business and success. So, what happens when you find two books that travel in both worlds?

I share them with you.

Both of these books are in my office, at my work station, and I read them both...daily. Why? Because they are so spot on when it comes to interaction with others and they will help you create a better personal brand and elevate your value to others.

I became aware of "Your Invisible Toolbox - The Technological Ups and Interpersonal Downs of the Millennial Generation" by Rowena Crosbie and Deborah Rinner months ago. Both women have been on The Business News Hour and I'm a fan of how they dive into research to bolster their conclusions and, yes, teachings. It's no surprise research is such a big part of this book because it is what they also do at Tero International.

There are 100 chapters and each is no longer than two pages. You can start and stop anywhere and in any chapter. The headers include "Tools for Interacting with Others", "Tools for Presenting Yourself in the World", "Tools for Leaders", "Tools for Working Globally" and "Tools for Personal Growth".  Don't let the "millennial" description get in the way of buying this book and using it. Clearly it is for any and all ages. Go get is and learn.

The second book is also a first book and it is brand new. "The Exceptional Professional - What You Need to Know to Grow Your Career" by Callista Gould of the Culture and Manners Institute is equally amazing. Her life story from working in the music industry to industrial corporations is stunning enough. Her stories of interaction with others are jaw dropping. Her tips on how to navigate the mine-field of etiquette are brilliant.

From business lunches, to networking events to your email this book is full of exceptional ways to enhance your personal brand and become that person who stands out above others.  In this book you will discover the lost art of being in the moment and being defined as a person of grace and dignity. All, without being "stuffy".

There you go...now go get.  You can thank me later. 

 

LeadN15 - Leadership Lessons in Fifteen Minutes

Given our short attention span...now estimated to be roughly 6 seconds...LeadN15 ("Lead in Fifteen") where presenters are given fifteen minutes to bring their "A Game" to an audience might be...a little too long. But, given the line up that Tom Henrickson has put together this event may just hold the attendees attention.

On stage this week to present include:

• Dr. Tony Paustian on "The Word that Changed My View of Everything
• Sonya Heitshusen and Matt Zepeda: "It's the Process"
• Kimberly Baeth: "Tips on Growing a Successful Business"
• Liz Nead: "Active Leadership - The Climb of My Life";
• Sarah Noll Wilson: "Deception of Distrust";
• Desmund Adams: "Socially Responsible Senior Leadership";
• Michael Libbie: (How did HE get in?) "You Don't Know What You Don't Know";
• Adam Carroll: "Building a Community".

The event takes place on Thursday the 19th of April starting at 8:00 am at the Windsor Heights Community Center, 6900 School Street in Windsor Heights, Iowa.

There are still tickets available and here is the place to go to register. 

Considering the quality of the speakers (well, with the exception of one glaring problem) this promises to be an exceptional event. Looking forward to seeing you at LeadN15!

 

 

 

 

Engage Your Loyal Friends!

I know lots and lots of business owners that have lots and lots of "friends" on their various social media channels yet they often complain they are not seeing sales match the number of people who are following them.

Wanna know why?

Because you have not ASKED for their help.

Follow along on this for a moment. It takes seconds to "Like" a page and maybe...maybe comment... Once done with that task many of your "friends" feel as if their investment is over. And you, and your business, racks up another "Like" which will do little to boost your bottom line.

How do you fix that?

• Say "Thank You" - Don't ignore new "likes" or "friends" they may have liked your page but without you engaging them with at least a "Thank you!" they have little reason to champion your business;
• Reward Your Brand Warriors - It doesn't take much to know WHO really helps drive your business. Which of your friends/customers continue to share positive messages about your brand to their friends. Then invite them to enjoy a free SOMETHING as a "thank you" for their help;
• Have a Party - Want to jump start engagement?  If I had a retail business with hundreds or even thousands of "friends" I would invite the most active of them to the business for a party...just for them. Thank them for their work and give them a simple assignment to keep it up;
• Personal Friends - Outside of social media you no doubt have friends...you know...folks you know well and often hang out with.  Don't forget them. They already like you so why not ask them to share their thoughts about your business with their friends?  The next gathering where you are together slip them a note with the "ask"...ask them to become brand warriors. Bet they will.

You can do all of this with a little effort that will pay huge rewards. Engage your "Friends" and they will help champion your brand.

You're welcome!

 

 

Are You Free?

Years ago, when we started the advertising agency, I did lots of things for free.  I still love to meet with people for coffee so they can pitch an idea or a concept but (other than helping out some local chamber types with my public speaking) I quit delivering my work for...free.

If your business is a real business and it counts on you to do what you do...why would you offer your services for free?  Here is what that says about your brand:

• We are not valuable;
  
• What we offer isn't worth it;
• We're desperate!
  

Go ahead and help out your local non-profit (once or twice) but other than that being "free" tends to cheapen your brand.

So, what do you think?  Am I right or...just mean?

Networking Groups - So You Are Hoping For....

Over the years I've been asked to become a member of several networking groups and I've also had the pleasure of speaking at some.  I've declined the invitation to join because, frankly, I've wondered how effective they might be. 

Consider that the hope of a networking group is designed to do business with somebody else in that group. But, if what you are selling is valuable, responsive, established and on target...why would you join?

Last week my friend Jim Connolly posted his thoughts on Networking Groups and I pass it on to you for your consideration.

So are we right or are we all wet?  Maybe a little...damp?  

Go!