I Got a Gal (or Guy)...

I present and facilitate workshops often on.... PERSONAL BRANDING. It's made me reflect on my own personal branding and exactly what that is. Sure, my expertise is in digital marketing and social media and people know me for that. So that's part of my personal brand. Is that all there is? Humans are multi-faceted. Your personal brand isn't one-dimensional either. I've always prided myself on being the 'go-to' person - friends, professional connections, colleagues, and so on know that if they have a need, I most likely know someone who can help. "Anh probably has a guy..or gal."

These are a few of the requests I've received over the years:

• Do you know someone in Austin who can cater my company's event and serve cabrito? (I do!)
• Do you know someone who has expertise in product photography? (I do!)
• Can you recommend speakers on these topics? (I can!)
• Do you know a web developer who can help me design a web site? (I know a few!)
• Do you know any accountants/attorneys/graphic designers/you name it that you could recommend? (I most likely do...and if I don't, I know who to ask.)

Many asks are of a professional nature, some aren't. What does this have to do with my marketing business? I'm not a photographer. I'm not a business attorney. I'm not an accountant. I'm not even a caterer. So it doesn't have anything to do with my business specifically because these aren't services that I offer (nor do I have expertise). BUT...it DOES have to do with my business and my brand. People know that I'm a resource. That I may be able to help with a recommendation or a solution. In the future, those I've helped may be asked if they know a digital marketer or someone who can help with social media. Hopefully, they'll think of me. If they don't, that's OK too. I'm not keeping score. More likely than not, I'll receive a referral or an introduction.

Bob Burg and John Mann wrote a book called the 'The Go-Giver: A Little Story about a Powerful Business Idea' which was published in 2007. Many of you may have read it and if you haven't, I highly recommend it! Joe, the main character, is a go-getter...yet is having difficulty hitting his goals and achieving success. After seeking the advice and mentorship of The Chairman, he learns how to be a go-giver which in turn helps him achieve success. Start with giving in order to receive. What a powerful lesson that is!

This book drives home a belief which I've long held--if I can help someone by connecting them with someone else I know (which helps that person too!), good karma is being sent out that will return to me in some way, shape, or form. So what does that mean for my personal brand? I'm a connector and a resource for others, who strives to make an impact on the communities I serve. I just happen to have expertise in digital marketing and social media.

I'd love to hear your stories about achieving success by giving value and placing others' interests first!