Becoming a Self-Marketing Superstar

by Andrea Nierenberg

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a person's career. Most great professionals became great because they brilliantly mastered a few skills that made them the best at what they do.

If I were to say, "Isaac Stern plays the violin very well in front of people." Your response might be, "ThatŽs an understatement!" However, his persistence in doing so earned him a reputation around the world. The same is true for any other profession. When we concentrate on a few skills, we gain a competitive advantage.

Here are some ways to stand out and be noticed:

Concentrate on your presentation skills. We are judged in business and in life, not only by what we say, but also by how we say it. Whether you are speaking to someone in the hall for a few minutes, or in front of a crowd for an hour, make sure that others walk away remembering the central point that you wanted to communicate. These "summary thoughts" will also clarify your thinking. If you know where you are going with an idea, then thereŽs a greater chance that your audience will be able to follow you.

Make yourself the master of your own destiny. Set attainable goals and keep the bar raised just a little higher than you thought. Often in my seminars, I ask people to stand up and stretch their hands as high as they can above their heads. Then I say, "Now stretch another inch higher." Everyone can do it, proving that we can do more than we give ourselves credit for sometimes.

Toot your own horn. When introducing yourself to a new client, first give a little background on yourself, when he or she is ready to listen. This is not bragging; instead it's being prepared with your own 30-second commercial to present a clear idea as to why you are great at what you do. Of course, avoid sounding like you are reading a resume. Rather, simply mention a few highlights to get his or her interest. Try listening to the news on the radio, and learn how the full impact of a major story, such as the earthquake in Turkey is expressed in only a few minutes.

Remember in today's competitive world, before we market anything, we have to market ourselves first.

Andrea Nierenberg is a keynote speaker for corporate meetings and trade shows, including AMA conferences. One of her most popular addresses and audio programs is Grow Wings & Fly: Keys to Motivational Skills. She can be reached at 888.605.5911 or via e-mail at andrean@selfmarketing.com , or the web at www.selfmarketing.com.