by Andrea Dale on December 13, 2011
The Business Captain
By Andrea Dale © 2011
Verse 1:
As the captain of my business, I own this ship and everything inside.
My private balancing act between confidence and pride.
It’s a mishmash of knowledge, bullheadedness and heart born hope.
With me as the owner, the captain, the crew and cabin boy, struggling to cope.
by Andrea Dale on August 14, 2011
A while ago, I received a newsletter email from a tax preparation business with both “a joke,” and tax information mentioned in the subject line. I enjoy funny stories and one liners, so I opened the email. And was dismayed to discover alongside tax advice, jokes about drunken behavior. A month later, I opened their next newsletter also with “jokes” in it. This time they had copied and pasted in several syndicated cartoons into the newsletter, which infringed on the cartoonists’ copyrights.
The first newsletter exhibiting a lack of judgment was not a big deal, but two? Now I am questioning how they handle the rest of their business.
Don’t hesitate to scrutinize your print, internet and electronic marketing communications with your business’ reputation in mind. Ensure that your organization is memorable for the right reasons, versus the wrong impression.
by Andrea Dale on May 10, 2011
Writing a book or thinking of writing one?
If yes, I invite you to discover insider tips, tricks and insights on May 17th in Mason, OH (NE of Cincinnati, OH).
Dave Braughler of Greyden Press and I will present Self-Publishing Answers, a three hour seminar on writing and self-publishing your book for consultants, business owners and experts. Please visit the Seminar’s web page for more information and to RSVP.
by Andrea Dale on May 9, 2011
When “profile photos” come up during my LinkedIn presentations, someone in the audience always winces. When I’ve asked “why the wince?” I’ve heard:
- I hate having my photo taken.
- I don’t like the photo that’s up there right now.
- Am I just asking for age, race, gender or appearance based discrimination?
- There’s no photo on my LinkedIn profile and you’re saying I need one.
Our society is appearance and image sensitive (to put it mildly), so it’s no surprise that you may prefer to skip that dratted photo all together. However if this is you, I challenge you to take another viewpoint.
What do you think when seeing someone else’s photo? Is it…
- He or she looks friendly, has a nice smile, etc.
- Ah, I just met them yesterday let’s send them an invite.
- Hmm they look different in person.
- Oh, I thought they were a man/woman and they are a guy/gal. (For names like Chris, or it’s a foreign language.)
- Huh, that’s a weird photo for LinkedIn.
- Oh drat they don’t have a photo (or I can’t see his face clearly) how will I find him at that meeting next week?
- Oh, no photo. Hmm.. Is she the same person I was introduced to yesterday? This feels awkward…What should I do now?
Reread the comments, which I’ve heard from various LinkedIn users. None of them judge the actual photo, unless it’s not a photo of the person.
That’s a weird photo for LinkedIn. Profile photos of pets, pretty images, PowerPoint graphics and artwork inspire confusion not connection. You’ve replaced “Oh, that’s so and so” with “Huh?” Also, the potential new connection is now unsure if you’re serious about using LinkedIn. And that’s a “first impression” you do not want to give.
What about prejudice? Maybe you’re thinking “They won’t actually say if they are judging the person based on their appearance.” Yes, you’re right they won’t say it outright.
The crucial questions are: Do you want to work for or work with anyone who is prejudiced? No. Can you change their beliefs by not posting a photo? No.
When your concerns about discrimination keep you from posting your photo you’re giving in, to the very bias you’re trying to avoid. So mentally tell that biased person to shove it, and get that photo up.
Why is that small photo so important? Your photo is one of the easiest ways to begin establishing a credible and comfortable relationship with your connections (if you’re smiling). It’s a vivid reminder to you and I, that there’s a human being behind that spiffy profile.
Also, without a photo many of your LinkedIn connections won’t recognize you in person (unless you sport a REALLY big name badge).
For an “Easy-To-Recognize-You” photo of yourself for LinkedIn. Have a friend, spouse, co-worker, etc., snap a straightforward “head shot” photo of you with a digital camera in natural light (in your backyard, etc.). Wear business attire suiting your type of work and company and just…Post it on LinkedIn.
Encourage other LinkedIn users to reach out to you in person and online by connecting with your smiling and approachable LinkedIn photo.
by Andrea Dale on March 31, 2011
This morning I sent a couple of tips to a prospect, when they were about to speak with a graphics designer. As a marketing coach with a degree in Advertising, I often provide guidance helping clients select the right graphics designer to develop their logo. I also play an advisory role as they work with the designer.
As such, if you’re considering hiring a graphics designer to develop your business logo and visual brand, include the following questions and considerations in your interviewing process:
1) Ask the designer to send or show you work they have done for other businesses creating original logos and graphics (versus refreshing logos, etc.), along with examples of where these logos were used online (on web sites and social media) and in print.
- Ask for logos developed for the same “type” of business you own, such as professional services or products; and business to business vs. business to consumer.
2) When looking at the logos note if the designs require multiple colors to work well and make sense…Do they stand up well in black and white? (A characteristic of a strong, well thought out design.)
- As inferred, a strong design looks great in plain old black and white and color. This also ensures that the designer will do a great job if you ask for a logo with only ONE strong color (my logo is an example of that..); helping you keep printing costs down.
3) What information does the designer need from you to create a fantastic logo suiting you, your business and the clients you most desire?
- Just colors and a business name isn’t enough. If that’s all they say, ask them for examples of what other clients have provided, for insights.
4) What is the cost difference between a logo which uses just your company name or one including custom graphics, images, etc. ? (The first is typically less expensive…)
- If your business is very young, or you’ve never had a logo designed before, consider the option #1. As your business matures, your branding changes…And there’s nothing like “living” with a piece of artwork to figure out what you truly desire long-term. I waited five years for my first logo, and the waiting and learning was worth it.
______________________________________________
As you work through the exciting and nerve-wracking process of developing your own distinctive brand, the end result should:
- Feel as comfortable as your favorite pair jeans, and;
- Inspire a sizzle of pride and excitement every time you pull out your business card…
If you choose the right designer, they will inspire you with logos showcasing your business through your clients’ eyes, instead of wearing you down with lackluster iterations that don’t hit the mark.
CMA Subscriber Contest: What’s Your Fave Gadget??
February 4, 2011Ezine Subscriber Only Contest: Win One Hour of Free Marketing Coaching! Tell me what’s your fave gadget and why? (only one entry per person) on my Marketing Michief blog by Friday March 4th, 5:30 EST. I’ll select my fave answer on Monday March 7th.)
This morning I had the pleasure of running a meeting for five [...]