The checklist of DUH.

If you are trying to build your brand and network there are a few things you need to do. These are all things we have discuss throughout this series of posts.

• Choose a networking group and get involved.
• Learn how to start conversations- it’s easy…say Hi. Chances are they are just as nervous about talking to you.
• Attend conferences in your area of study. Actually STAY for the entire conference.
• Sign up early for the sessions you want. That means you must read the brochure to get the spots.
• Make a memorable business card. Hand out business cards. Have them on you at all times. No funky, wrinkled, or dirty cards- Eeeew.
• Collect cards.
• Follow up, follow up, follow up.
• Use your social media accounts to continue to build your brand. Make it sparkle!
• Mind your manners online. Once it is out there it stays out there. Think before you post.
• Before you send an email- LOOK! Make sure it is addressed to the right person or people. REPLY ALL is a no no.
• NEVER WRITE ANYTHING WHEN EMOTIONS ARE HIGH. Take a day or two to respond to an issue. Give everyone a chance to calm down.
• Crazy idea…network at WORK.
• What goes around comes around. Get in the habit of helping others and they will in turn help you.
• If possible, find a mentor. This is a person who has been where you are and has the experience to walk you through it.
• Ask your network for referrals. This is the best way to grow your business and your brand.
• Be meeting savvy.
o When meeting with someone higher up the ladder than you allow them to choose their seat first.
o If you get there first, do not sit at the head of the table.
o Do not interrupt.
o Chewing gum is a hard NO
o No texting, emailing, or Candy Crush while in attendance.
o TURN OFF YOUR RINGER!
• Sadly, office politics is a thing, and everyone must work within those boundaries. Build the right relationships and stay out of the office gossip pool as best you can.

I know this all appears repetitive because it is. Repetition helps you remember important ideas. Personal Branding for Dummies (A Wiley Brand) will repeat ideas and lists to ensure you are on the right path. As we are coming to the end of the book, we will come across more ideas that will repeat earlier thoughts. This isn’t a bad thing. We tend to forget things if they aren’t staring us right in the face. There is a reason I set birthday and anniversary reminders a week early. It gives me time to buy a gift or card. I do that for many things. Being prepared is one of the most important steps to becoming successful in any business.

What do you want to read next?

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

• Around the Writer’s Block- Rosanne Bane
• Get a Literary Agent- Chuck Sambuchino
• Building Believable Characters- Marc McCutcheon
• Getting Your Book Published for Dummies (A Wiley Brand)
• The Writer’s Guide to Character Traits- Linda N. Edelstein, Ph.D.
• Or suggest another topic!!!

Polish your sparkle and just keep twirling.
Find joy. Be joy. Enjoy.
I’m always looking for new friends! 😊
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Author: Ticia Rani

I am...interesting. I am a writer, dreamer, mom, wife, veteran, friend, villain, and the wearer of many hats, but I don't look good in hats- go figure. I LOVE TO WRITE. I want to tell stories. I want to make you laugh, cry, and scare the crap out of you, and make you ask "why the hell did you do that?" I want to make you cheer my characters on or want to shake the crap out of them for things they say and/or do. I want to bring you along for the ride. Ready? Set?...READ!!! View all posts by Ticia Rani