There are two common challenges people claim when trying to build an expert, influential brand. Do either of these sound familiar? People don’t listen to my ideas or see me an expert even though I know my stuff really well because I lack credentials/the right degree/level of experience. and... Everyone says they’re “experts” these days, but I really am one! I’ve earned it. But I can’t … [Read more...]
Balance Your Media Diet
In today’s digital world, here’s what works well for getting clicks: Lists of quick-hit tips Images Shock value Salacious gossip Outlandish claims It’s fun to click on “10 Celebs Who Have Not Aged Well” or skim shocking headlines to have something pithy to say at your next cocktail party. It feels sinfully delicious to escape reality by watching The Real Housewives of Whatever … [Read more...]
3 Ways to Build Your Thought Leader Brand
If you’re a consultant of any persuasion, you have probably heard this ad naseum: You have to establish yourself as a thought leader. Let’s break down what this really means, why thought leadership matters and how you can build a thought leader brand. Thought Leadership Defined Thought leadership is simply establishing yourself as the expert on your chosen profession, not just on the … [Read more...]
5 clever ways to position yourself as a (real) expert
Guru. Master. Legend. Wouldn’t those be nice words to hear after someone introduces you? Maybe. Personal branding is all the rage these days. But most of us don’t have to be THE leading voice on a certain topic, but a unique, thoughtful and useful voice that is part of the conversation. I say: Beware the lone guru. There are so many “personal brands” out there, claiming to be expert in … [Read more...]
10 Signs Your Brand is Failing
Last week, I posted about 5 signs of a Power Brand. This week, I’d love to share this great list from Derek Daye and Brad Van Auken of BrandStrategyInsider.com, a super blog about all things branding. I’m adding their blog to my list of regular reading. With full credit to their powerful thinking, here are the 10 signs they say indicates a brand is failing. The list itself is to their … [Read more...]