Archive for category branding
Spring Cleaning for your Brand
Posted by Joie Tamkin in branding on March 8th, 2010
You are your brand. Everything you do in life is a representation of who you are. Whether you own your firm or work for a company, you are your own brand.
From the way you dress, to where you work, to the people you hire, to the car you buy, to the neighborhood you live in, to the health club you belong to, to the way you speak… all of this can either build or diminish your personal brand.
Spring is almost here, and it is time to do a little bit of “Spring Cleaning” for your brand.
Get out there and draw some attention! Delivering a speech or speaking on a panel is a great way to re-vamp your brand. Giving expert advice sets the tone of your company and yourself. Pick a topic that is timely and post new tips weekly on a blog, like this one!
Stay current. Make sure your head shot is current, along with your bio, resume. You should also give your linkedIn and other social media profiles an update.
Be a great communicator. Research shows communications skill is the top determinant for upward social and professional mobility. Join Toastmasters or hire a communications coach to ensure that your written and verbal skills are at their best. Being able to have meaningful networking conversations are key to building a positive brand. Practice social interaction wherever you go, even at Starbucks… did your barista understand you clearly? Were you being clear and concise when you ordered? Or did you dance around what type of latte you wanted and did they give you a funny look? Beaware of how people react to you.
Build your contact list. Make new business contacts and stay in touch with them. Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook are great for this. Most people with powerful brands have powerful friends.
Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. Balance your individual style with clothing that will appeal to those you are trying to impress. Today’s relaxed business attire has lead a few people astray. Designer jeans are the new slacks for many offices… they have become my favorite professional look, especially for men. If you do not know how to dress up your jeans, or aren’t sure what I meant by “designer jeans” please seek a fashion consultant.
Select “significant” significant others. Who you date or who you marry affects your brand. Studies suggest that single people should not take their dates to company events. If they do, they will be judged by the outcome of every romance.
Give something back. Giving your time, talent, and money to charitable causes is a brand-builder especially when it complements your brand strategy. Find a cause you are passionate about. I’m passionate about helping others grow their brands, so I spend countless hours working with the PRSA. Through this commitment my name (brand) is associated with the PRSA and vice versa.
You and your brand, and as your brand, are your biggest assets. Nurture your brand this Spring and you will flourish in the benefits.
Are your needs being met?
Posted by Joie Tamkin in branding on January 26th, 2010
I’ve always been fascinated with Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs in life… checkout his pyramid. Are your needs being met? This sequential hierarchy of needs doesn’t usually happen in today’s society. 
When I think of needs, I think of: Starbucks, whitening tooth paste, Google search, and my iphone. I actually have all levels in the pyramid covered multiple times.
How amazing is it that Starbucks found its way into being in my life’s pyramid of needs? Now that is impressive Branding! Starbucks provides every level of the Pyramid.
Let’s start with the basics, Physiological, they provide food and water. Moving along to Safety, I stay alert and productive because I get my Starbucks coffee every day and my co-workers are safer once I have my coffee.
Next is Love/belonging, this is my favorite one! When I order a tall half-caf, skinny vanilla latte, it shows that I am an insider and belong in “the club” I often ramble my long obnoxious order carelessly as I update the Baristas on the latest celebrity gossip. I feel like a Rockstar (loved) because they remember my name and know how to spell it.
Now we are really getting into the magic of this brand, Esteem, watching those Barista’s aim to please me is exhilarating and when they call out my name I get that giddy feeling like Bob Hope just called me up to the Price is Right. The first sip of the not-so-great tasting coffee, shoots my confidence sky high and I am ready to take the day.
The last need is Self Actualization, I accept Starbucks for what it is… it’s mediocre coffee with long lines and no parking… but it brightens my day everyday, sometimes twice a day.
What’s my point? Not only should we all have invested in Starbucks in the 70’s but Starbucks is a strong brand because they meet numerous core needs simultaneously. Does your Brand do that?
