The only way to be recommended and referred is to be remembered. Does your personal brand pass the test? Can others recommend and refer you, based on how well they know who you are and what you do?
Make a short list of keywords for yourself based on your interests, strengths and skills. Now ask some people in your network for the words they associate with your name. If there are a lot of matches, then you’ve done a good job conveying your personal brand to others.
But if there is a disconnect between who you think you are and how others see you, there is some work to be done. Either you are not effectively communicating that brand image or others have noticed characteristics about you that haven’t yet been self-identified.
Why do you constantly struggle, while others are successful? Why does it seem like they are getting referrals and business, while you struggle to make ends meet?
Networking your way to branding yourself is one of the first steps a small business owner should take when wanting to make people aware of what they do and what they have to offer. This also includes using Linked In, Facebook, Twitter, Plaxo and the 1000’s of others that are out there to network you way to being branded.
We consult with small businesses on their social media management. If you need help give us a call.
Have a great day and happy networking.