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April 2013: Highlighted Service For Companies:
Know your brand doesn’t represent you well? Struggling to market your business consistently? Ideal for a new or small-business, Callosum offers Business Starter Kit services for a monthly retainer. Service includes concept and exception of marketing strategy, SWOT analysis (strength, weakness, opportunity threat), digital newsletter, blog, and social media.
For complimentary 20 minute assessment and detailed service offering, Book Now.
I received an email from a colleague today. He posed an interesting question:
Have you made an impact on someone’s life? I recall an assignment where I was to determine three people that had made the biggest impact on my life and reach out to them to thank them and make sure they knew it. Mine are my college graphics professor, George Ramsey; childhood friend, Cathy Baranay Kastens and my father, Dr. John J. Hefferren. Forever that exercise is seared in my memory. Share the gratitude and it comes back ten fold.
Yesterday I got a surprise phone call. I recognized her voice immediately. It was Melody, my little sister from Big Brothers Big Sisters. We spent a year together as friends years ago. At the time she was 11 years old and is now a sophomore in high school – time flies!
Take the time to invest in yourself and learn what’s important to you. Define your core values and share them with the world. Family is a core value for me. With no children of my own I seek out opportunities to create family. It brought me to tears to hear Melody still speaks of me often. I could hear the smile in her voice. While initially vocally trembling, by the end of our call she was giggling and telling me her every sweet story. It made OUR day.
What did she remember of our time and how had I impacted her?
Take a look at your personal brand values through a strategy session and make a difference. Who’s life have you stood for? Do they know it? We’d love to hear your story.
Trying to beat the heat? It’s quite the hot topic. A client reached out to me for a solution for her husband who’s melting in his suiting. Ditch the suit or die? In a casual workplace you’re fortunate to swap out short sleeves, lose the tie or rock the slide. Unfortunately some industries and firm cultures do not smile upon a more casual look. We empathize and have suggestions.
While losing the suit jacket and going for a dress shirt and tie may seem the logical solution, this may be viewed as juvenile. It is also a risky step to expose perspiration stains.
I have a funny story to tell. I was getting acquainted with a new colleague. After an hour of talking and sharing our businesses, she asked, “Where did you come up with your company name? I presume you bought the company since it’s not your last name.”
I explained that I founded the company and the name was very special to me – Callosum comes from Corpus Callosum [n. pl. corpa cal•lo•sa] is the arched bridge of nervous tissue that connects the two cerebral hemispheres, allowing communication between the right and left sides of the brain. I shared that Callosum approaches the branding process with function and design in mind. – - It shows our psychological and marketing background with a commitment to communication.
As I spoke, she began giggling. She suggested I make the Callosum naming story more prominent in my marketing materials, web site and conversations. Not familiar with the term corpus callosum her brain has associated me with the word colostrum. Colostrum (n. co·los·trum) is a yellowish liquid, especially rich in immune factors, secreted by the mammary gland of the female mammal a few days after the birth of their young. She was associating me with breast milk!
And off the brain goes on it’s tangent… mother earth, bonding, boobs, caring. Within moments we were both laughing. While not necessarily bad adjectives to be associated with, it was not my intention. What do you associate Callosum with? We’d love to hear from you.
Office etiquette is ever evolving. Forbes’ Susan Adams reviews 301 Smart Answers to Tough Business Etiquette Questions by Vicky Oliver. We agree one of the most troubling etiquette problems is the advancement of gadgets that offer the user the ability to ‘check out’ regardless of the surroundings. It’s rude to have your nose in a smartphone or ears plugged in to tune out the world. Be respectful of the human beings in your space.
Our favorite elevator etiquette tips:
Read the full article, The New Rules Of Business Etiquette.
Looking to stir things up in the elevator to crack the tension? Try the old standby joke – stand backwards and face the other passengers. What the reactions fly – it’s fascinating and is always good for a laugh!
Distracted by the unkempt facial hair you struggle to listen to the rather important presentation being given by your co-worker. Human beings are naturally, and acutely, receptive at picking up stimulus cues from their surroundings. Cues being sent out generate an emotional stimulus from the receiver. The sender may control the positivity or negativity of the associated emotions. Are you sending the appropriate messages? What are the lines in your shirt saying to your future client? Are your white rounded leather shoes going to help or hurt your image?
Callosum loves sharing articles that give concrete advice for quickly and dramatically improving your personal brand. In Dress Like a Power Player by LisaMarie Luccioni, adjunct professor of Communication at Univ. of Cincinnati, gives a detailed analysis in Psychology Today on the visual cues we send.
Clothing choices must be made diligently in our vast world full of color, texture, and lines. By first assessing your personal coloring in order to compliment your clothing choice, you can gain an initial understanding of what message you will be sending. “Your skin, hair, and eye tones communicate strength, softness, or a blend of the two.” If you have lighter skin, and blonde hair, wearing dark colors will drastically “Yin”, soften, your overall appearance. In comparison, dark hair against lighter skin will provide dramatic opposition, yang, giving a sense of power. Callosum recommends determining your intention for your audience, is it for power, or is it for welcoming and ease. Choose your wardrobe to fit the situation based on contrast.
“In American culture, the darker the color, the more authoritative you appear. Black, navy, and gray are classic standards for power dressing, but other options exist. Any color looks more powerful when “shaded” (addition of black to current hue). Hunter green, deep plum, dark brown, and burgundy also impart strength and add sartorial variety.” Straight lines on garments send the image of authority and power – explaining why pinstripes are powerful.When choosing a garment, place it directly next to your face to decide if the garment will flatter or flop. The sun reflects light off your garments and on to your face. Callosums tip is to make sure your color choice makes your face look bright, not sallow. Everyone’s skin tone is different so take the extra time to make sure you look fresh.
“Contrast, contrast, contrast. Pictures look better when properly framed. You do too. Attention goes to contrast and you want people noticing your face.” Highlighting your face by using contrasting colors brings out your most important attributes.
What do you think is the first thing your audience notices? As Mark Twain once said, “Clothes make the man.” We at Callosum believe it’s hands and shoes. In an instant your audience has determined your detail to attention based on the state of your hands (nail length, cuticle, softness) and the state of your shoes (polished, contemporary, scuffed?) “The most powerful men’s shoe is a leather wing-tip with a slim sole. Often worn by bankers and lawyers, they present the most formal image.” This being said, it may not always be your objective to send the message of power. At times having too many power signals can be seen as intimidating or even send the image of omnipotence.
Be aware of the context and the goal of the situation when choosing your wardrobe items. It is far easier to dress a notch above and reduce formality later, than risk being too casual and losing credibility at first impression – a very difficult misstep to regain.
Since this article was published we have seen a trend of business casual backlash as the younger generations show more interest in dressing dapper. What trends do you see?
The Corpus Callosum facilitates the brains hemispheric communication. However, no physical neural fibers exist in society that facilitates human-to-human communication and attention. If maintaining attention from others were as effortless as sending a neurological signal, we would not only maintain attention, we would command it.
As John Hagel III and John Seely Brown of Harvard Business Review share in, Five Ways to Hold the Right Kind of Attention, “No matter how talented or accomplished you are, you cannot always count on attracting and retaining the attention of others.”
How do you gain a stronghold from business prospects and create the curiosity needed to move forward? If you know the right signals you can perfect the art of holding the right kind of attention. Hagel and Brown’s methods help establish leverage and attract people to join an initiative. Our favorite snippets are featured below:
1. Embrace mystery. The naturally curious will be drawn to mystery. “Frame really gnarly problems that are relevant to you and need to be solved.” Attention and engagement will be established by incorporating others into thoughts. Personal branding is nothing without relationship. Mystery is one of several fascinating techniques Callosum uses to engage clients in conversation.
2. Focus inquiry. In our leadership segment, Callosum encourages clients to ask open-ended questions, thus encouraging a two-sided conversation. Focused questions help people to stay motivated and “investigate the mysteries that lie ahead.” versus suggesting an answer thus clipping conversation before it’s even begun.
3. Excite the imagination. Imagining the outcomes of questions and situations provides optimism and helps manifest results. Children are great examples of creative dreamers. They are constantly stimulating their minds by posing “what if” questions and looking for answers. By posing “what if” questions people will be stimulated to pursue the questions with energy and creativity. Callosum encourages visualization as a tool to strengthen successful outcomes. Creative dreaming with prospects or clients builds rapport and trust within a team dynamic.
4. Limit availability. Rarity is sought after. The colloquial phrase, “people want what they can’t have” is applicable to business. “Be more selective in your availability – you will often provide even greater incentive to tackle the problems, rather than simply engaging in conversations.” Callosum encourages building relationships with intention and clear boundaries. Together these evoke feelings of value, expertise and importance.
5. Be authentic. Callosum believes authenticity is the most important point in human interaction. Sometimes this is an intuitive feeling which is difficult to put a finger on, yet can’t be ignored. “If you try to game this, you will be found out and the backlash will be significant.” When you try to gain attention for a problem you need help solving, if you widespread net (asking any and all people) it will disenchant others. Take ownership of your problem and be authentic in your wish for joint creative solutions.
Techniques to hold attention are becoming increasingly important in our fast paced, distracted society. “We are all experiencing increasing economic pressure as individuals and institutions. In this kind of environment, we not only need leverage, we also need to more rapidly improve our performance.” Personal branding is the solution to creating leverage. These techniques to gain attention will bring your best personal brand to the surface. This will ultimately help the individual reach their goals and the company reach its revenue. Positive attention gaining tools are a piece of leverage. With the right questions, ideas, and ultimately leverage, people will become inherently curious about you and your company.
For consecutive years Callosum has ranked Southwest Airlines as a favorite when referencing creative and effective corporate personal branding campaigns. As a result, it comes as no surprise to us that Chief Executive has ranked Southwest Airlines fifth among the “40 Best Companies for Leaders 2012: How Top Companies Excel in Leadership Development.”
The top five companies for strong brand equity and leadership are: 1) Procter & Gamble; 2) IBM; 3) GE; 4) 3m and 5) Southwest Airlines. Ranking used to determine the 40 best companies is based on four different criteria and taken from a sample size of about 1,000 firms worldwide. The criteria are as follows:
A main survey factor determined that CEOs personal involvement in a company’s internal process greatly influenced the overall company ranking. This shows us that CEOs who embody culture and maintain personal staff involvement will lead the company to success. Callosum is excited to see this because we know that a company’s growth is intertwined with the personal growth of leaders and executive figures. Chief Executive states, “Leading public company CEOs commit a higher priority to leadership development in spite of the added burden of more complex and ‘distracting’ environments with added pressures for short-term financial results.” Performing as a cohesive family strengthens a company.
Looking at Chief Executive’s #1 ranking, Procter & Gamble (P&G), it is clear they have been tremendously successful since their inception 174 years ago due developing strong leaders. P&G “places a rigorous process on managers to develop managers below them.” By breaking the notion a company must be a hierarchy, they established brand strength at the company’s heart by investing in their staff. P&G general manager college teaches values-based leadership. To the shock of outsiders you may even find Bob McDonald, CEO teaching. “It’s the most valuable resource this company has,” says McDonald. On January 27, 2012, Ad Age released news of Procter & Gamble cutting 1,600 jobs due to financial pressures (Full article: P&G to Cut 1,600 Job, Bank on Digital for Long-term Savings). What is your take on how this will affect the leadership of the company?
IBM, standing in 2nd place, uses constant leadership evaluation methods in order to maintain successful personal branding regardless of the economy and budget state. “Leadership competencies … are regularly evaluated to assess the leadership potential and functional skills of IBMers globally.” By creating consistent evaluation plans the company can reassess the human capital and company identity.
GE annually spends approximately 1 billion dollars to train and mold future company leaders. According to GE chief learning officer, Susan Peters: “We have 13 offerings involving leadership skills that everybody should have, such as presentation skills, project management skills and understanding finance in a generic way.” By investing in personal branding skills, GE aligns their business core values, cultural environment and employee actions.
“If your people grow, your company will grow.” This 3M motto constantly reminds employees that leadership and growth are crucial. 3M takes the approach that executives “stay in a job for about four years in order to experience failure and sustained success.” Failure is a sure fire way to force an individual to learn a lesson, create a solution and re-evaluate one’s personal branding goals.
These leading companies share an understanding of staff cohesion importance. Callosum believes leadership skills are an element of a personal branding. By corporate leadership engaging in their own growth and their commitment to staff growth, a strong brand identity flows through all tiers and interactions.
What is the human differentiating factor that builds a great leader? Please voice your opinion.
Photo Credit: http://www.blogsouthwest.com/blog/southwest-pilots-volunteer-across-country-and-city-near-you
When Callosum entered the Personal Branding / Human Capital arena in 2009 the term Personal Branding was fairly unknown. We were ahead of the curve and spent much time educating prospects, clients and our network. Now three years later Personal Branding has become a hot topic to debate. Depending on who you are speaking to the spectrum runs from just gaining momentum and credibility to dying a death of inauthenticity.
Erik Decker’s article, “It’s Called “Personal Branding.” Get Over It” shows that a true sense of personal brand loyalty and authenticity are a must when it comes to personal branding. As he puts it, “Being true to your personal brand means that you’ll act the same way in public as you do when no one is looking.” On the flip side, Oliver Blanchard’s article, “R.I.P Personal Branding” discusses the fact that people are people, not brands. However, authenticity is also the central role in,“R.I.P. Personal Branding”.
Erik Decker FOR personal branding key takeaways: “A brand is an emotional response on the part of the people who see it…. A personal brand is not an act, it’s not a character, it’s not a fake you.”
Oliver Blachard AGAINST personal branding key takeaways: “People are people. They aren’t brands…. Th(e) core need to build a brand to ultimately sell something is at the very crux of the problem with “personal branding.””
Callosum defines personal branding as: A collection of your attributes: skills, knowledge and character. It’s the combination of personality + perception + promotion. In essence Callosum encourages our clients to build self-awareness from the inside out authentically.
Based on the Callosum Personal Branding definition and the ongoing debate, what’s your opinion? How does honesty, and authenticity play a role in personal branding? Join in the discussion below by commenting.
Reading “Five Tips to Break Through Your Filter(s)” by the Harvard Business Review, I was struck by the oddity that as technology expands our comfort zone reduces. We align ourselves with those that think like us, which act like us, which make us feel normal. Living inside this “world” makes you feel warm and fuzzy.
This is lovely except when a bump in the road comes. Just as you can tune into what you want, you are also able to tune out those that don’t fit your perspective. Set in your ways, a little pebble suddenly becomes a behemoth upset. In order to reduce the risk of allowing others to derail you easily, you must step outside your security blanket niche on occasion. Stepping outside allows you to hear different perspectives, distinguish your own perspective and voice an opinion respectfully.
As a personal brand, you must know who you are, what you value, so you may choose how to create a full life that inspires others and yourself. If you only know how to inspire your teeny tiny safe niche you’ll make a flea’s impact on the world. Let’s create an awe-inspiring ripple effect!
Take a look at the article by John Hagel III and John Seely Brown; I highlight a few favorite points that will take you out of your bubble and expand your personal brand reach.
I’ll wrap up with a favorite test my friend Esteban Gonzalez of [bt]+ gave me. For one week, apply The 5 Foot Rule. Any time another human being is within 5 feet of you, you must strike up a conversation. A key part of a successful personal brand is to know how to ratchet your personality to different settings. It may seem silly, painfully awkward or no big deal – do it anyway. Flexing this “hello” muscle will allow you to feel comfortable regardless of your audience. Are you up for the challenge?
Thank you to “Five Tips to Break Through Your Filter(s)” by John Hagel III and John Seely Brown of Harvard Business Review. Photo credits: Nap Please by Andrew Bardwell; Bubbles by Joshua Rothhaas.
The tides have turned and quality relationships are back in style! Thankfully gone are days when people were viewed as revenue generators, numbers, bean counters and head count. We can thank the Great Recession for making us aware of the value of self-awareness. Today with a wealth of phenomenal people and services available, it’s the quality and the how of what you do rather than what you say. Get out a mirror; take a hard look and ratchet up your self-awareness.
Case in point, today’s blog post by The Ladders and Personal Branding guru Dan Schawbel, “2012: The Year of the Personal Brand - Create relationships one action at a time to increase your brand equity — and your bottom line.” They speak of utilizing social media as intended, socializing and continually educating you. I agree wholeheartedly. A truckload of contacts is useless if when you walk in the room no one recognizes you.
To increase the quality of your relationships consider your Rolodex, Outlook, CRM or Facebook contacts. How often do you personally touch each person? Both business and personal relationships take nurturing. If your efforts go stagnant to the point of the person not recognizing you at hello, it’s time to delete that contact.
Tickle File
Set yourself up for success to keep relationships active and authentic. With each new contact you meet, set a task for 90 days out called “tickle appointment.” Keep new contacts engaged and revive stagnant contacts by picking up the phone (no cheating with emails, that’s 63% less effective than a phone call and 93% less effective than a face to face conversation). Be authentic and share you have a policy of touching base on a quarterly basis and as you haven’t been fortunate to see each other recently, they are the lucky winner! Make it an exciting treat to learn more about each other. Set a lunch date or coffee (budget friendly) and show up to listen.
There’s no agenda. As the conversation unfolds, your stories will naturally weave in and ideas be sparked that create value for both parties. When the date is done, enter notes into your system and reset the tickle 90 days out. Tickle away.
After speaking at a November 2011 roundtable event at Chicago’s Robertson Lowstuter, an outplacement firm, Callosum’s Clare Hefferren was asked to guest blog for RL.
Please enjoy the post and share your comments with us.
Click link to read: Personal Branding – How Are You Showing Up?
Callosum talks about the importance of face-to-face communication. A first impression is easy to make and hard to fix if you stumble. Did you know there’s an insider’s pre-first impression? It’s your online profile photo.
Consider this, you have two identical-qualification resumes in front of you. Both come highly recommended. One of the two will be hired. How do you decide whom to hire? Many people go research online for hiring, networking and reference purposes. If you don’t have a photo, you’ve just lost the competition. You’re invisible.
Play along. When you see these photos: What do you think s/he does? How does s/he make you feel? Would you hire her/him? Would you like to meet her/him?
These photos are two colleagues with excellent (LinkedIn) images – both online and off. A photo introduces you to the viewer through your personality – it’s the HUMAN side of your brand… the personal brand. Studies show we engage with faces much more powerfully than data.
An online presence is a powerful tool. To use it, before attending an event, ask the organizer for an attendee list of names or read the guest list. Take the time to look up the guests online. Perhaps you’ll have common colleagues, fellow alumnae or have lived in the same city. Who in the room will you interested in meeting? Who can you help? The commonalities you find are icebreakers, which allow you connect on a personal level. A business conversation following a human connection is far more powerful that laying your elevator speech directly after a handshake.
What does your photo say about you? To create an online photo presence that represents you well:
Homework: Schedule a photo shoot. Polish yourself with a crisp haircut/color and a signature solid color blouse, solid dress shirt or tie. Get a good night’s sleep and ladies put on your best make-up. Ask for digital images at high-resolution so you may crop per need.
Interested in shooting with us? Callosum offers occasional headshot promotions with our favorite photographer. Post your comment or email info@callosumcreative.com for our next shoot date and rates. Is your Linked In photo showing YOU in your best light – the light of your personality?
(Thanks to Philippe and Noeleen for the gift of your photos and the great YOU.)
As the sky-high runways of New York City are swept following Fashion Week, we turn our attention to the reality of the street. Fast Company has deemed “For Brands, Being Human Is The New Black”.
What can you do to humanize your brand?
Feature an employee: Add a section to your website, create a blog post or send an eblast featuring an employee every month. So often it’s what an individual does outside the office that keeps their passion flame lit and finds them stepping into the office with a smile versus a stopwatch. Did Joe set a personal best at a race last weekend? Is Anna braving the stages of Second City improv classes? Was Tenley trekking in China on her vacation? The dynamic created when staff members view each other and clients as more than a transaction or a deadline, creates quality relationships.
Share your stumbles: Too often we forget our customers are human as well. When we share our weak points it allows others to empathize and builds a sense of trust. “Why would she tell me that?” Well, we want our customers to know that we are always learning. And you can’t learn without making mistakes. Sharing a story of a failure can be viewed as an opportunity to show how your team problem solves. Try, try again.
Forge face time: Technology continually tries to create channels to communicate authentically through words. There is no substitute for face time. Actual words convey only 7% of our intended communication (email, PowerPoint). Tone adds 34% (phone). Body language adds an astounding 60%. When you want to develop a human relationship, you simply must engage face to face. Studies show women particularly respond to images of human faces. Want to grab attention? Swap in a video and share a story with imbedded knowledge and lessons.
We’d love to hear your latest People-First Branding story? What human story do you share?
Insights to ladies fashion for Autumn 2011: When my Boden catalog arrives it brings me an instant smile. Boden is a British women’s, men’s and kids apparel and accessory line with a loving grip on life and a kindness to their customer base. Boden is more than smiling models; it’s a brand of genuine-ness. The flavor of fun is in the “cockle-warming” colors, the details (fabulous linings) and the words (“Help you bloom through the gloom”) used to describe the pieces.
How often do you see someone’s tag hanging out? Zipper open? Skirt tucked into waistband? Do you tell them? It’s a tough position to be in. You have empathy, yet often our own embarrassed to tell them stops us from speaking up. What’s the solution?
An excerpt from Harvard Business Review “The Conversation.”: So, to return to the question of how you tell your boss his fly is down (or that she has lipstick on her teeth): The mistake to avoid is to not say anything. The cost of not telling could be high if it appears that you knew and kept quiet. It’s simple. Just give him the facts, quietly if possible. “Bob, your fly is down.” If you’re embarrassed, get someone else to do it. Everybody wins: The boss is saved from embarrassment, and you’ll go up a notch in his estimation for your nerve and for limiting his exposure.
Read the entire article: Harvard Business Review “The Conversation.”
I attended a Women’s Thought Leadership event yesterday focused on self-promotion within the corporate environment. Regardless of the industry there were many statements that resonate with professional women and the necessity of building professional presence and consciously networking to gain exposure and increase chance of promotion.
Whether a salaried employee, independent or in transition you know the necessity of networking. “But what if I’m shy?” Let’s start with how to make direct eye contact smooth and easy even if you are shaking in your boots. Etiquette guidelines show making direct eye contact will let the person you’re speaking to know you are interested. (more…)
Have branding questions? Our educational posts will ease the brain strain.
How Do You Define A Brand?
I have a short story to share today. Polyvore is an online tool I use for Callosum wardrobe consulting clients. Today I created a style set for a client who is: a sales executive, athlete, mom of a 9 month old, works at home, wife, earning a degree in the evenings and vacationing at the Cape. (more…)
Have branding questions? Our educational posts will ease the brain strain.
From CNBC, Dec. 15, 2001 Wear Flesh-Colored Underwear, UBS Tells Employees.
My thoughts? While UBS perhaps took the details too far, what unfortunately gets passed over is “why” a company creates a dress code. It is not to make employees feel imprisoned, take away rights or create robots. UBS appears to be tightening code on areas abused likely by a slim portion of staff. This is unfortunately a necessary evil. More importantly it shows UBS is placing value on the face to face communications with the clients, vendors, and prospects – bravo for them. (more…)
How does your image development directly correlate to success? I have a perfect story to share. This week one of my favorite clients quit her job. Imagine doing that in this economy. Why did she quit? She was recruited by a competitor. Word spread that she is a leader, a rainmaker, a brand ambassador for her industry. Three years ago she came to Callosum for help. She knew she was the smartest on the team, but wasn’t getting the attention of her superiors. She was being overlooked – literally. (more…)
I imagine you have noticed Callosum is swirling with excitement around Count Me In and their commitment to growing women-owned businesses. I have just returned from the San Francisco conference and would like to share my favorite take-aways. Enjoy!
• “You can have it all, if you don’t do it all. “ Nell Merlino (delegate, out-source, focus on what you’re good at)
• “Audacious thinking is encouraged.” ~ Participant.
(more…)
Callosum is thrilled to share we were chosen as 1 of 5 winners of the micro Make Mine A Million competition! We are so very grateful for your support. We will be attending the annual conference in San Francisco Nov. 7-9. Please let us know if you’ll be there as well. To learn more about M3 click here.
Our final post on the messaging behind People-First BrandingSM: Last week discussed how breakdowns show up personally and professionally when an individual has ineffective interactions. This week we discover the business implications. It may show up in a variety of ways including: a lack strategic business alignment, questionable real-world needs linkage; programming for programming sake; frequent stop-shorts; HR driven programs, status quo; staff potential slowly grinding down; weakened hiring value (As, Bs, Cs) or no growth.
Let’s continue last week’s post in which we covered the Callosum value proposition (We specialize in People-First BrandingSM. We believe the individual should be the first representative of a brand, not the last brand representation. We make clients more effective by making them more impactful to the audiences that matter). This week I’ll explain how breakdowns show up in three areas when an individual has ineffective interactions — personal life, employee life and business limitations.
7:30 – 9:00am | Illinois Technology Association – Marketing Roundtable. – “The Human Element of Branding”. Guest Speaker, Clare Hefferren of Callosum Creative. Each and every time your associates come in contact with clients, an opportunity exists to build relationships and loyalty, promote your firm’s brand message, and identify additional client challenges and revenue opportunities. Capitalizing on these opportunities can occur only through brand platform alignment. Are your front-line personnel prepared internally and externally to engage with your clients?
As a business owner I wear many hats. This week I stepped back to look Callosum’s messaging. Inspired by our history, I share our story and welcome your comments.
Where did People-First BrandingSM come from?
With corporate experience in branding, fashion, graphic design and project management my brain thinks in brands and easily sees brand platform breakdowns across varying modes. In 2005 I launched Callosum — a graphic design firm with a branding focus. With many interests, I soon found myself dipping into my fashion skills by freelancing to offer wardrobe consulting and personal styling. My wardrobe clients were polished with a stellar professional image.
Have branding questions? Our educational posts will ease the brain strain.
[excerpt] | Branding is an investment, and like any other investment there are risks and rewards. To minimize the risks, a company must have a solid branding strategy. To reap the rewards, a brand once developed must be properly managed.
A strong identity…requires continuous evaluation and,
in many cases, revitalization to keep it up to date
and increasing in value over a long period of time.
To build a strong identity, a company must first establish its position and brand strategy. A company must also project a consistent message, conveyed through
the brand name, trademark, trade dress and all visual communications on and off line. A strong identity also requires continuous evaluation and, in many cases, revitalization to keep it up to date and increasing in value over a long period of time.
Well known, recognizable brands can be an organization’s most valuable financial asset. They are the engines that drive the business, and yet too many executives don’t give brands the ongoing attention they demand and deserve.
Author Elinor Selame
Source AllBusiness.com
Publication Credit Union Management
Date February 1 2000
To View Full Article click here.
Speaking Skills Tip | Last week Todd Smart speak about building credibility at Illinois Technology Association Marketing Roundtable. My favorite take-away: When you use conditional language in presenting yourself you lose credibility. Listener can sense your lack of confidence. Eg. “IF we get that result for you…” vs. “WHEN we get that result for you….” (more…)
Harvard Business Review, Why Men Still Get More Promotions Than Women, asserts women are over mentored (leadership development, executive presence, professional development, relationship building) and under sponsored (strategic, exposure, networking, promotion positioning). Setting aside sweeping gender accusations, what can we do to help both genders? I agree it is challenging to effectively place mentoring and sponsorship into the same training program. Consider, would an adjunct sponsorship component work for a leadership development/executive presence mentoring program? What would it look like?
Are you race ready? This week, my strategic brain was in high gear. I am a triathlete. This Sunday is my final, my big, race of the season, The Chicago Triathlon — .93 mile swim, 24.8 mile bike, and 6.2 mile run. My goal is to finish in under three hours and fifteen minutes. I’ve trained for months; I’ve done visualization; and I’ve created a strategic race plan.
I attended a workshop this week, Effective & Realistic Marketing Strategies for WBEs, held by the Women’s Business Development Center featuring excellent speaker, Julia Hubbel.
My favorite moment? “Clarity is power.” Recall the childhood game “telephone”. Whisper a statement in one ear and pass it on through ten sets of ears. What comes out the other end is rarely the same. Apply this to networking. In a digital age, we no longer have 30-seconds for an elevator speech. We have SEVEN. Can you get your point across concisely, clearly with POW in three to five words? (more…)
At a business networking event with social media focus, panelists were asked to share a sing important tip on how to build your personal brand. Among the standard tips, self-pronounced techie, Jean Pickering, shared she prefers dark corners and behind the scenes work (natural for social networking). Her tip “Get out there and IRL.” I.R.L. = In Real Life networking. (more…)
Seems I’m not the only one craving human contact these days. Step inside the personal life of busy single professionals and you’ll likely find frustration on the dating front. Online dating has solved the need for 24/7 “shopping” but it’s also decreased the spark that may exist in locking eyes with a stranger. The more we plug in the more we check out. (more…)
non-verbal cues tip | Today I attended a panel discussion on building effective sales teams. Layering the solid deck of tools and technique suggestions, the most memorable question I heard was, “When do you think the world changed in terms of valuing relationships?” (more…)
leadership development tip | Last Friday I attended a Step Up Women’s Network professional development power breakfast. Nancy Ruscheinski, President & COO of Edelman US, spoke on “How to Ignite Creative Thinking”. Of many ideas shared, a week later I am still talking about Rotnem. (more…)
business etiquette tip | We’ve all experienced the ‘dead fish’ or ‘death grip’ handshake. Another version of an ineffective handshake is a ‘power struggle’. Shaker approaches with palm facing down – parallel to ground. This is a sign of dominance and an attempt to establish power in the relationship. (more…)
A recent Green Peak Partners study, in collaboration with Cornell University, shows bullying traits (arrogance, overly direct, impatience, stubbornness) in the workplace are an attempt to mask incompetence and strategic intellect. (more…)
Creating the Exceptional Client Experience | July 14, 2010. 1-day open-enrollment workshop designed for client-facing staff of accounting, law and consulting firms. (more…)
client relations tip: A recent run-in with lousy customer service reinforced the idea that internal branding is the key component to building customer loyalty. When customers and clients look for a brand or product, they have a plethora of options to choose from. (more…)
etiquette tip: How many times have you been on an important phone call and suddenly realized you’re talking to yourself? Dropped calls are a modern day epidemic. (more…)
wardrobe tip: Tattoos and body piercings are becoming widely accepted, especially among younger cultures. Even though the body modification trend is on the rise, there are inappropriate times to flaunt your ink. (more…)
speaking skill tip: We’re constantly rushing to meetings, making phone calls and checking emails. Unfortunately, we often find ourselves talking to machines. (more…)
business etiquette tip: Join me for dinner? Company, client and associate dinners are a common in today’s business world. Everything from the drinks you order to how you handle the check can gain or lose you a potential client or employee. (more…)
business etiquette tip: A slippery slope of casual email correspondence leaves communication less formal and consequently less professional. An outward-facing touch point, email leaves an impression with your customer/vendor. (more…)
client event: I promised when beta boutique shuttered its retail doors they would remain close to the Callosum heart – in their pop-up events… Well this is it! (more…)
leadership tip: I am often in awe at how quickly executives make important decisions. It is a trained art, which must be applied to oneself as well as team members. (more…)
Mom says never apologize for kitchen secrets. Does this apply to speaking? Absolutely. Are you nervous? The audience may not even notice. (more…)
grooming tip: When considering personal image development, the pyramid is the triangular region including shoulders and head. (more…)
An etiquette tip: When attending an event requiring a nametag, place your name tag on your upper right shoulder area. (more…)
When you step away for your day-to-day life, do you show up differently? This past week I left metro Chicago for an earthy Colorado. (more…)
client event: Sharing news of our beloved client, Beta Boutique: Store Closing – Less Store, More Events. We know our shoppers love our events, and we love them too, that is why we’ve made the executive decision…to shutter the store (more…)
Facial expressions change continually during conversations. Among non-verbal cues, the face conveys seven universal emotions— (more…)
A business etiquette tip: Ever been in a discussion when the person you’re speaking to interrupts the conversation to answer their phone—only to tell the caller they’ll have to call them back? (more…)
wardrobe tip: Is your company uniform giving you the blues? While not intentional, mass produced logo wear is commonly cut shapeless and unflattering to many body shapes. (more…)
client event: It’s my favorite time of the shopping year. Shop Callosum’s client, Beta Boutique’s killer sample & overstock sale for fashionable ladies and fellas. Trust me – this one is worth the trip!
What: Semi-Annual Stacked Rack Sample Sale! Womenswear and Menswear. 8000 sq ft of the best designer stock/samples and choicest boutique overstock priced at 40-90% off for men + women, sizes XS – XL, prices range $5 – $150 and under!
When: Saturday, January 30th (10A-6P) – Sunday, January 31st (12-5P)
Where: River North. 233 W. Huron, at corner of Huron & Franklin (1 block east of Nacional 27 and 2 blocks south of Brown Line El – Chicago Ave. stop)
More info: http://betaboutique.com/sales.html
wardrobe tip: As technology changes, so does the way we host meetings — webinars, teleconferences, video conferences, etc. Are you communicating clearly? Although we may no longer be sitting face to face, appearance remains vital. A video conference is similar to being on television. Dress so your audience may see you clearly and polished. Solid colors and neutrals show crisp. Avoid bright colors as they vibrate on screen, patterns blur, and distort the screen.
leadership presence tip: Out in the world, I am increasingly saddened to see so many people resigned in their workplace. The cashier’s monotone regulatory “hello”… the subway blank stares… the hopelessness of pending unemployment. CNN Money confirms it. “Fewer than half of U.S. workers are satisfied with their jobs, the lowest level since record-keeping began 22 years ago.”
How do we swing the pendulum from “I work for the weekends” to “I love my work”? Let’s look in the mirror. You are in charge of your life. Reignite your power to choose and resist the habit of giving it away to the circumstances around you. Be proactive in improving your attitude, keeping your brain active and challenged will improve your lifespan. Start today as the author of your life. Create a brand YOU biography that’s a bestseller! I’ll leave you with my favorite quote: “Our primary job is to feel joy.” Dalai Lama.
quarterly recap: 2009 was a wonderful ride. Thanks for joining us. In case you missed our fourth quarter newsletter, click here to catch up to date. Missed past issues and curious what we’ve been up to? See our online archive here. And of course, Happy New Year! Callosum is grateful to have you in our circle of clients, colleagues, vendors, family and friends.
They see you coming from afar. Color is the first sensory impression you make when approaching a person. Regardless of personal color preferences your audience will have the same subconscious response as our body’s nervous and hormones react to the magnetic energies and temperature of colors. The brain physically senses and interprets color visually resulting in different emotional responses. Color sways perception, judgment and behavior.
By learning the science behind color psychology and applying it to your clothing choices you may use this interpersonal skill tool to manage your professional relationships. Consider which colors align with your desired image? (Don’t neglect to flatter your skin tone) Dress for success with a professional wardrobe in effective colors.
Black = authority, power
Blue = cheer, loyalty, productivity
Brown = abundance, genuineness
Red = passion, stimulates communication
Green = harmony, calming
Orange = enthusiasm, warmth
Pink = tranquilizing
Purple = luxury, sophistication, femininity
Yellow = enhances concentration
White = innocence, purity
As a manager you have the challenge of revenue accountability and building a successful team. You have a choice to have effective or ineffective relationships with your team members. It’s best to show an interest in your subordinates as people with career ambitions. If they think you are willing to work at building a relationship to benefit both of you, they will provide more of what you want. If they think you are a revenue-generating machine (bill more, work more) with little regard for their well being, they will respond in kind. The relationship will be diminished to transactional terms based on short-term needs. This is prime territory for talent pool loss come better economic times. Value your staff and your revenue will grow through productive team players.
Executive presence takes time to build. To start getting more comfortable in larger settings, begin by speaking up at least once in each meeting. Think through what you are going to say and when you open your mouth, don’t use any disclaimers (“This may not work but…”). Speak up loudly and hold the floor long enough to be heard. Studies have shown that when a woman is in a room with men, they often don’t even remember the women’s remarks unless she has spoken loudly enough and for a long enough duration.
Source: Author, Josette Goldberg of Goldberg Executive Coaching & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
To save time and money in building a consistent personal style, nurture relationships with retail sales staff. In essence, they are a free resource that acts as your research team for wardrobe development. Have a favorite store or discover a new one? As you enter approach a staffer you visually admire. Tell them you’d like help with a wardrobe plan. Share your strategic shopping list, budget, shape goals, color preferences and image muse. Ask about current sales. Ask if they keep client profiles and enroll in frequent shopper programs. When done shopping jot down remaining needed items and ask to be contacted if upcoming shipments arrive. Viola… the inside scoop to best deals and merchandise!
Working in a multi-cultural environment requires setting your colleagues and clients at ease in both environments. A wise initial step is to create a bilingual business card. Print English on one side and second language on the other side. Include phonetic pronunciation in a second language. Present card using two hands holding card away from you so text faces the reader in their preferred language. When recipient takes card, bow forward as a sign of respect. Also note, while taking notes on US-based card is considered helpful, it is disrespectful in the Japanese culture.
speaking skills tip: What makes a great speech, presentation or message? Put the message up front. Transition clearly from point to point and back up your viewpoints with credible ‘Forms of Influence’. We recommend using S-P-E-A-K to give your messages more punch or ‘stickiness’. S = Statistics & Facts, P = Personal Experience share, E = Example, A = Analogy, and K = Killer Quote. Randall Larsen, (Ret.) Colonel, National Security Advisor, Center for Biosecurity, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center uses all in his speech, Lessons Learned from “A Good War”, The Global Smallpox Eradication Program and Homeland Security.
Source: Author, John Vautier of Vautier Communications & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
business etiquette tip: Sitting on a future client or colleague? What may be habit for you, may be considered disrespectful to another. Proper etiquette when receiving a business card is to take a brief glance at it, say “Thank you <Name>”, and place in your shirt pocket, handbag or briefcase – never in your back pocket.
Do you think of your client as THEM or vice versa? Often times it’s hard to determine how each side began competing for control of the relationship. Regardless, it’s imperative to not let the relationship spin out of control to enemy territory. Examples: 1) Focus on rehearsing call vs. planning how to get the conversation rolling 2) Asking for documentation/approval at all steps vs. trusting first 3) Obvious up-selling vs. sincere interest in client needs beyond the contract. Are you at your brand’s front line with a helmet or a handshake?
Speaking skill tip: Really, you want me to hug the audience? No, but metaphorically I do! If you want an audience to truly listen, trust your expertise and feel connected, it’s essential to connect on a human level. Remove the physical and energetic barrier by stepping away from the podium. Proximity creates vitality and gets the energy flowing. Without ever physically touching, the audience will feel the “hug”.
How do you recognize executive presence? Have you ever been in a meeting or chatting where one participant stood out? Where personal engagement level, clarity of thought and expression deemed them exceptional? You were likely witnessing executive presence in action.
Several attributes consistently characterize the very best executive presence. They encompass interpersonal engagement skills that define what executive presence is all about. Executive presence experts are very good at consistently projecting these attributes to their audiences. These attributes include:
Source: Author, Josette Goldberg of Goldberg Executive Coaching & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
Dress codes are really vague. Most senior company leaders say that they understand that the days of suits and dresses are long gone. I’m often told by them that they “get it” that their employees want fewer rules and regulations which have little to do with performance.
But later, they will make inconsistent comments. Behind closed doors they get a little more forthcoming. I’ve been told capri pants are too much for a work environment or so and so should stop wearing pants without his underwear showing if he ever expects to get ahead. “Flip flops? Not what future leaders should be wearing.”
The real world is that the boss really wants people to follow his or her lead when it comes to standards of dress. If the boss is wearing a sports coat with Dockers, or a business skirt with a cotton button down collar, they are sending a signal. Disregard such signals at your own peril.
Source: Author, Josette Goldberg of Goldberg Executive Coaching & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
As an executive or manager, there are three things to think about when it comes to the concept of accountability in your business:
Source: Author, Josette Goldberg of Goldberg Executive Coaching & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
A young woman went to her mother and shared things were so hard for her. She wanted to give up. In the kitchen, her mother boiled 3 pots of water. In the first, she dropped carrots, in the second eggs, and the last ground coffee beans. She boiled them 20 minutes then placed them in separate bowls. She asked her daughter, “What do you see?” The mother had her touch each cooked item. The daughter noted the carrots got soft, the egg got hard. She sipped the coffee, then asked. “What’s the point?”
Each object faced the same adversity…the boiling water…but reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting – it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile – its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans changed the water. She asked, “Which are you – the carrot, the egg or the coffee beans?”
When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean? The carrot seems strong, but with pain and adversity. Do you wilt and become soft and lose strength? The egg starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Do you have a fluid spirit, but after a life trial have become hardened? Does your shell look the same, but the inside is bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart? Or are you like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. How do you handle adversity?
Source: Author, Josette Goldberg of Goldberg Executive Coaching & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
When genders are working together it can sound like a personal relationship on occasion. Women asking the guys why they don’t participate in a discussion but then leave the meeting and have a bunch of ideas; or men asking the women why they take so long to make a point.
The way our brains are wired, according to recent research out of UC at Berkley really makes a difference in our processing. Women are more prone to thinking aloud and using that to come to a position while men go radio silent while they are thinking before making a statement.
If you’re a woman in a male dominated environment, don’t go processing aloud — it can frustrate the men who just want an answer. If your a man in a female dominated environment, don’t give the appearance that you’ve shutdown by processing internally without telling those around you what you’re thinking.
Source: Author, Josette Goldberg of Goldberg Executive Coaching & affiliate of Callosum Creative Ltd.
Client Event: Women’s ESCADA Sample Sale - “Over 8,000 Items, Up to 70% Off!”
July 16-19: Thur 10-7pm. Fri 10am-7pm. Sat 10am-6pm. Sunday 11am-5pm
Where: 344 N. Ogden Ave. Chicago 60606 [River West Off-Site Event Space]
More info click here
An alluring English accent. A booming baritone. Voice sets a mental image. How does your sound portray you? We increasingly use voice to convey our brand - voicemail, radio blogs, phone conferences, webcasts… Most aren’t born with a radio voice, but a smile & smooth delivery is the difference between a listener receiving your full message versus being distracted by mispronunciation, filler words [uh, so] and rambling. Listeners get impatient if you lack good diction and modulation. Keep to the point, organized and articulate. Teensy Tip: Convey warmth through smiling. They can hear your smile!
Does your profile photo make you want to know YOU? Whether on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or Match.com, it’s an instantaneous recognition or retraction tool! In regards to professional or personal branding, the most effective way to communicate to the world is with a current, in focus and preferably not shot in your bathroom mirror on your iphone headshot. An effective image will share your story as your personality shines through. Invest in yourself and engage your ‘readers’ with an inviting image. For headshot tips visit here.
Time management coaches advise using auto-replies stating you check your email 3x/day [not every 30 seconds] to gently train your recipient away from a ‘must hear back from you immediately’ mentality. Clients and colleagues beg you to remove it. How to please them all? When initiating a relationship share your ‘scope of work’ includes replying within 24 hours during xyz business hours. Without clear communication gray areas swell to the 24/7 workload complex. Gentle boundaries are an effective part of conveying your personal brand. Your clients are cared for and you retain work life balance.
How to crosshatch increasing technology and the wavering practice of etiquette? Resist as you may, technology is increasing being used in our personal and business lives. Are the two incompatible? It’s not the gadget’s fault but more so the user behind it – increasingly indifferent, bored and attention-deficit inclined. Take a deep breath, click the off-button and be present to the human being in front of you. It’s likely far more engaging.
speaking skills tip: When talking to a group it’s great to have direct contact with each of your listeners. Don’t make the mistake of maintaining eye contact with just one person. Doing this will stop the other members of the group from feeling engaged and thus listening. Instead focus on a different member of the group with every other sentence. You’ll keep them all interested and feeling valued in the conversation.
client event: Please join me as Callosum client, Beta Boutique partners with Style Chicago to co-host an 11,000 piece HUGO BOSS sample sale for MEN & WOMEN up to 80% off retail price. Callosum is proud to be co-producing this fantastic event. I will be at the private Style Chicago Preview Shopping Party – shop Wednesday, June 3 6-9pm [registration required] or when doors open to the public Thursday June 4th at 9am. Sale continues through Sunday. || While able to say hello, if you’d like my undivided attention and expert wardrobe consultant advice, email me for an appointment. See links in copy for details. Hope to see you there!
Do you bring YOU to work? Have a separate professional and personal persona? Karma chameleon will tell you it’s an unhealthy way to live! Not only is it lonely, it’s destructive to your career and personal life. Yes, it’s appropriate to leave the hi-tops, Halloween costume and personal Facebook photos are home, but bring your unique personality to the office. Embrace the inner you then polish it for the professional sector. After all, building relationships make you successful and that requires integrity. Bonus: You won’t panic when you run into a co-worker, boss or client at the grocery store – it’s still YOU.
leadership presence tip: It’s not uncommon for women to feel beauty deters them from being taking seriously in the workforce. A common reaction is to ‘create flaws’ in order to be respected; however, de-feminizing or joining the ‘boys’ in old school bonding behavior will only further diminish your effectiveness as it leaves the TRUE YOU out of the equation and shows a disrespect of self. A more effective tactic is to build your presence and communication skills to increase your influence. A little professional coaching goes a long way when investing in YOU.
speaking skills tip: Nerves got the best of you in a meeting or pitch? When client asks a question, give yourself a moment to think before responding. Inexperienced sales/account members feel the need to respond immediately – or risk being perceived as unknowledgeable. In fact, it’s just the opposite! A quick response often leads to a reaction rather than choosing a thoughtful response. Speaking Skills Tip: Wearing a ring? Each time you’re asked a question, spin the ring 3 times [under the table please] before responding.
leadership presence tip: Is your staff a good investment? Are you making the most of them? Are you letting go of the right ones? Investing in professional development training as a leg of your corporate brand development is a money-savings venture. In comparison, on-boarding costs are budget breaking. “…A company invests as much as $75,000 for each new hire, which takes into account training, orientation and productivity. A turnover rate in the 15 percent range can mean millions of dollars worth of investments walking out the door.” Put your money where your mouths are! [source]
leadership presence tip: Crains reports IL unemployment rate to be 9.1% – the highest since 1985. What to do? Are you considering the YOU beyond your stellar resume? This is the HUMAN part of branding Callosum focuses on – professional branding. Stay optimistic and engaged to present yourself in a good light. With millions of stellar resumes circling, it’s the relationships you’ve already built that get you in the door. Reach out and touch your network with a polished personal image and impeccable interpersonal skills.
leadership presence tip: It’s par for the course and a place to stand out. Are you search-engine optimized for a professional image? It’s an element not to be ignored. Prospective clients, colleagues and vendors will “google” a name to learn more. Like it or not, this will pull up all the public desires and dirt on your behalf. Much like a credit report, it’s wise to monitor the results for accuracy. [Be weary of personal results diminishing your professional image.] Go ahead google youself!
speaking skills tip: All you have is your word. Will your word stand up not only in court but also in your client’s eye? On the heels of the Blagojevich scandal, let’s talk integrity. It may be considered a sixth sense and vital interpersonal skill of your personal brand. When you speak do your words match your tone, body language, and integrity? Even if you don’t SAY it, they’ll SEE it and FEEL it. Mama says, honesty is the best policy…
Callosum Creative Experts Teach Company Leaders How to Make Every Client Interaction Meaningful Press Release 3/24/09 Chicago, IL — Callosum Creative Ltd. has assembled an acclaimed team to support the company’s People-First BrandingSM program. With more than 70 years of collective experience, Callosum has the know-how to significantly increase the productivity and influence of three key employee units: sales teams who bring business in, account teams who retain and build business, and executives who serve as the face of the company. To read full release click here.
wardrobe tip: Employed or unemployed, now is the time to sharpen your personal brand to stay top of mind with your current or potential employer. How to weather the recession while looking sharp? Savings tip #1: Tailoring clothing. Brush up your look by tailoring suits versus buying new. Spend the savings on a memorable less-costly tie or blouse. Re-cut a jacket for as low as $40, versus buying $500 suit off the rack. Need help? Send us an email for a Chicago tailor referral.
Callosum maintains a network of affiliates who collaborate with Callosum and our clients to offer the best in professional development and staff branding. Understand the expertise of our affiliates — Josette Goldberg, P.J. McGuire and John Vautier — on our management page. Our go-to network enables our clients to accomplish goals quickly and efficiently utilize services Callosum has screened and trusts resulting in high-level cohesiveness and like-mindedness to accelerate client results.
With great pleasure, I announce the launch of our People-First BrandingSM service. In this economic climate, having a nimble, productive staff is critical to success. People-First BrandingSM gives employees the tools they need to make a marked improvement in their performance — and the company’s bottom line. To learn more click here. I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you in more detail about the professional development program and answer any questions you may have.
an etiquette tip: lav⋅a⋅to⋅ry [lav-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] –noun, plural -ries. A room fitted with equipment for washing the hands & face & usually with flush toilet facilities. More commonly known as ‘the loo’. Basic rules of men’s restroom etiquette: 1] Choose a station as furthest from the others. 2] In case 1 cannot be achieved, use a stall. 3] TP out? Replace or notify the next guest. 4] No discussing office politics – you never know who’s in a stall. 5] Do not continue (or initiate) a cell call. 6] Do not continue your conversation that began in the hall. 7] No lingering. Meet in hall to improve efficiency. 8] Most importantly, wash your hands.
client relations tip: Sales, account and project teams dictate the success of a service-based company. When presenting to clients, does your team spirit shine? Does the client gain trust and admiration when watching your team dynamics? It’s an account deal breaker. Consider: Do your team members respect each other? Do you encourage individual continual growth? Do you listen more than “talk talk talk”? Is communication open and support given upon requests? A team far exceeds the capability of the individual alone. How do you rank?
grooming tip: When considering physical image, the triangle [defined as the shoulders, neckline and head] is vital as the most seen and memorable body area. Specific to hair, are you looking sharp? Is cut/shape reflective of you and your personal style? Your age? Style time realistic? In alignment with your daily environment? For example, a ‘bohemian sophisticate’ working in an agency with a toddler at home. Go for chic shape with ease of preparation and rich tones to accommodate lack of makeup application time. Hair color is just as important! Compliment your skin tone to look fresh. With an appropriate cut and color, you’ll command the attention you deserve.
leadership presence tip: Recruiters say executive presence is the most vital factor when placing a candidate. Explore, what is it you hold true about yourself that creates a unique presence? The eight factors of executive presence are: focus, intellect, charisma, communication skills, passion, culture fit, poise and appearance. Consider, are you self-aware, confident and gracious in your conversations? It may make or break a sale.
wardrobe tip: Why hiring a wardrobe consultant may be your smartest savings move this year. Excerpt: It’s counter-intuitive, but spending money saves you money. By hiring a wardrobe consultant, they’ll show you what you don’t need to buy, to shop with a purpose and ensure you buy the right items. The average manager-level professional spends $5000 annually on wardrobe. With a consultant you may be able to cut it, but you’ll absolutely get you more bang for your buck. Spend your money wisely. | To read full article, click here.
etiquette tip: New technology unfolds at an increasing pace – the latest being text messaging. A little is fine and sometimes very useful, but please use technology with etiquette reservation. Foremost, a text message should only be used if you have already developed a relationship. Just getting to know someone? Pickup the phone or email – it’s flattering. Beyond common sense points, consider: 1] The recipient’s setting. A quick distraction is fine, but repeated is disrespectful. 2] If conversation is takes more than 2-3 messages, do it live. 3] Send short questions or requests – Yes, no or quick simple reply. Please keep the human in technology.
leadership presence tip: Words . tone of voice . body language. Studies theorize which of the 3 communication elements is most important to focus on. I suggest skipping the analyzing and realize it’s most important to be congruent when we communicate. Our words, and tone of voice should be consistent with our body language in order to deliver an effective, believable message. Often we spend too much time preparing the WHAT to say and neglect the HOW to say it and show it through body cues. Verbal cues for thought…
client relations tip: Service-based business employees may treat a client like a transaction or relationship. Consider, are your clients interested in a transaction expert or relationship advisor? Factors defining the transaction interaction: short-term benefit, “them”, detached, defensive, and protective; relationship interaction: long-term benefit, ‘us’, helpful, engaged, open, and inquisitive. Interestingly, company majorities market themselves as interaction experts when yearning to be the ‘trusted advisor.” See a branding disjuncture?
leadership presence tip: Consider fine-tuned brands – Nike, Apple and Southwest Airlines. Stellar products, advertising/marketing campaigns, and the staff sing the service mindset. Believing each unique individual has something to teach you and you to teach them, you walk away feeling they’ve gone the “extra mile”. Check your attitude and mood. If you’re not looking, feeling and sounding like someone you’d like to meet, stay home until you do. It only takes one grump to ruin the reputation, livelihood and success of a business or brand.
leadership presence tip: Mature, baby boomer, x, and y. It’s the first time in history with 4 generations in the workplace. Example being, my father, 80, has yet to retire nor does expect to. Work keeps him young! Subtract 20 years from each generation and theoretically his great-grandson is 20 and working. This creates new dynamics. When presenting yourself to a different generation, consider: Who is my audience? What motivates them? Is my wardrobe appropriate for their culture? Sales pitch catered to their attention span? Languaging understandable? Food for thought… generational protocol.
business etiquette tip: The fact is having a great handshake is a life skill we should all cultivate. In business etiquette, often overlooked, a handshake is your first point of physical contact. Western etiquette rules exist to assist behavior between people, so that rather than guess how one should act, one may know the proper behavior. Initiating the handshake is a form of respect and gratitude. In regards to form, a successful shake is moderately firm adjusting grip & durations to other person, sealed with eye contact and a smile.
leadership presence tip: What’s the best way to rate a restaurant? Visit the powder room. Is it clean? Well-stocked? Decorated nicely? Smell fresh? Arranged logically? Do you leave feeling fresh or filthy? Callosum calls this spatial branding. Anywhere a client/consumer steps must be branded. Corporately consider: reception area, conference room entrance, conference room interiors, and rest room. Maintain consistency. Ex. Paying oodles for a top-notch conference room door, but placing a low-grade table inside, discredits the entire space.
leadership presence tip: Post-Thanksgiving. It’s crunch time – literally + figuratively. After 3 pie slices, sit-ups are in order. As we tighten our financial belts, many turn to consider job stability. Is there anything you can do to increase stability? Consider the way your present yourself. Is it representing you and your company appropriately? Does it distract from a professional image? Have you gotten to comfortable in your business attire? Are you an example to follow? These are all valid factors when evaluating a staff member. Stay sharp and stay employed.
leadership presence tip: 3 seconds. Go! Stop! We’ve made up our mind and we’re sticking to it. Do you leave a great first impression? Suggestions: Be on time. Turn off your cell phone. Present yourself in appropriate attire for setting and audience. Prepare a little small talk to break the ice. Make eye contact and listen. Keep posture in mind. Smile naturally. Be at ease with yourself. Be optimistic regardless of your not so great day. Now take a deep breath and be yourself. You’ll be great.
wardrobe tip: We’d like to share a tool we use with wardrobe consulting clients – Polyvore. Remember playing paper dolls? This site allows user to create ‘fashion sets’ of apparel and accessories from live online retailers. After creating set we email it to client. It’s link-friendly ie. shows where each piece came from and the price. Based on client’s lifestyle, shape, colors and budget we create looks to fill Closet Therapy shopping lists. Can’t beat that! Check Clare’s profile out and let us know your thoughts. [Be forewarned it's a time vortex.]
leadership presence tip: Do you have a desire to lead? Being an effective leader takes motivation and ongoing hard work to keep skill set sharp. These skills are easily taught but more importantly, is it your desire? Curious if you have leader DNA in you? Take this assessment and share your thoughts. Click here.
wardrobe tip: “One of the sexiest things a woman can do is to clean out her closet.” ~ Oprah Winfrey. Are women neglecting themselves to become superwomen? After catching an Oprah episode dedicated to renewing women’s sensuality through makeovers, I came away smiling. Paralleling Callosum’s consumer Closet Therapy service,ladies countrywide are being brought back to life by the simple task of cleaning out a closet. Free the memories, live today and love the skin you’re in!
leadership presence tip: Your delivery of your speech or presentation will make or break it. Regardless of content and preparation it’s YOU that makes it memorable. Looking to make it stick? 1) Use examples to bring your points to life 2) Body language should be active [step away from the podium] 3) Speak slowly and concisely with pauses to allow audience to digest. 4) Use a variety of tones of voice 5) Use visual aids.
leadership presence tip: Brand jargon can be endless. Focusing it down, the musts are: 1) Clarify your position. Define the single thing your company stands for [to your customers] that the competition lacks. Single is the operative word here. 2) Tell your story. Give your position an external expression by telling your best client story. [i.e. a case study.] 3) Bring it to life. Make sure when your company [any outward-facing resources of it – staff, marketing materials, reception area] hits the outside world it LOOKS and FEELS authentic.
leadership presence tip: In group settings it’s often difficult for newcomers to break into the group with ease. Utilize your personal signature as an invitation to chat. Wearing an accessory or unique piece of clothing provides an entry point for conversation. Bonus: it makes you memorable!
etiquette tip: Do you mind your manners? Taste a few tips: 1) Who calls back when disconnected on the telephone? When there is a poor phone connection or when you are disconnected, the individual who initiated the call is responsible for calling back the other party. 2) What is the proper time to arrive for an appointment? Always arrive on time for an appointment – never late. Arrive no more than 5 minutes early. 3) Can I exchange business cards while dining? Cards should never be exchanges while dining. Exchange when meal is complete and parties have stood to depart. For more tips go here. ps visit Manners International.
leadership presence tip: Who are you? When addressing a client or audience, how do you appear? Confident. Sincere. Nervous. Uncertain. Professional. Sloppy. Knowledgeable. Unsure. To get an outside view in, consider videotaping yourself and tune in. Watch your gestures, ticks, infection, posture… Are you coming across the way you’d like to? I’d love to help polish your presence. Let me know how I may.
wardrobe tip: Mixing prints can be intimidating, but done right is chic while stretching your wardrobe. Following the menswear trend, begin with a wide-leg tweed or plaid trouser. In the same color family, add feminity with a rich floral print blouse. Give patterns “air” by adding a belt or camisole. Chilly? Layer a cardigan – loose, buttoned or belted. Feeling brave? Add a complimentary bright-hued accessory for pop. Are you a mix master?
wardrobe tip: When working with clients on creating a wardrobe, I often find a closet overflowing yet with “nothing to wear”. For most efficient shopping, keep in mind ratios. You should have, tops to bottoms, a 3 to 1 ratio. Although I personally love a killer pair of slacks, rarely are they remembered. With this in mind, slacks/skirts are a great place to invest in a class, well-fitting piece. Leave less expensive novelties and trends to tops.
This month I have three close friends getting married. Talk about branding… A wedding is the ultimate outward expression of a couple. Envision a glass-ceiling gallery on the Cape, a French Bistro in an urban neighborhood, and sunset in the botanical gardens. What defines where to begin planning? It’s the energy. It’s the experience you want your guests to walk away with. To begin brand development, journal the experience first; then move onto the details. Happy honeymooning!
Due to popular demand, the Callosum blog is now accepting comments! May the flood gates open and my brain burst forth. I welcome your comments and questions in regards to branding of your company and yourself. Fondly, Clare J. Hefferren, President
leadership presence tip: Entrance fee required. Are you worth the ticket price? If you were to charge a fee for clients to experience YOU, what would you do differently? What would ensure they’d feel the price was worth every dime?
client relations tip: There’s a sure way to make each email/newsletter is a memorable experience. Pretend that customers are paying to receive your messages. Strategies to help you create value: 1) Group important details, like an order confirmation, in the upper right corner. 2) Include complete contact information for your customer service department including hours. 3) Offer valuable—and unexpected—features. Ex. Discount on future orders. Email delivery confirmation.
wardrobe tip: With budgets slim, how to stay on top of fashion trends without emptying your pocketbook? Take a stroll through your closet. With an objective view, you’ll be amazed at what you can stir up. Ladies, transition your summer wares by adding layers [tights, gloves, scarves]. Mix Summer sheers and silks with Fall tweeds and plaids. Pull out last year’s fur and shearling for accents. Live the super-hero trend by breaking out your slim-fitted leather jacket, fluted-collar coats and capes with long-gloves to command confidence.
leadership presence tip: How much have you invested in marketing collateral? Gazillions it seems. Unfortunately what is often overlooked is a focus on the people who carry your brand around every day. It’s the receptionist, the field sales reps, the account execs, the interns… Every word, outfit, manner, posture they “utter’ is part of your brand. To grow your awareness, choose a few token employees and begin investing a portion of your marketing budget to your staff assets. You’ll quickly see – polish the staff and polish your brand bottom line.
leadership presence tip: Brands need a strong, memorable identity to stand out from the crowd, but to stay alive, must change with the times. Falling in or out on an almost daily basis, keeping brand identity relevant and desirable is major. It’s time to change when your identity has dated to an extent that it acts as a barrier rather than an enhancement to communication. Secrets to longevity? Framework – flexible elements allow emotional elements to evolve and create a credible personality. Continuity – organic, living entity expresses personality, growth and world interaction.
client relations tip: It’s one thing to toot your own horn, it’s another to have your clients do it for you. Allow client testimonials speak volumes for your business [and literature and web site, speaker sheet, reference sheet]. It’s adds a personal touch. Hesitant to ask clients for a testimonial? Make it a part of your project follow-up. Include a brief satisfaction survey, reference and testimonial request. If a client has had a good experience, they’ll likely oblige. If not, perhaps time to get out the company mirror to see what image your company portrays.
client relations tip: Studies show potential clients must emotionally connect to establish trust before they are willing to purchase services. It’s the human element of branding. Often this requires being personally seen and heard. Credentials aside, you must present well. Increase your odds of clients in the door by utilizing online media to reach your target market. Speaking engagements, presentations, interviews, media clips are great opportunities to get air time. Video, post and link to your site. Visit YouTube for details. This is your chance to be heard [and seen].
leadership presence tip: It’s been said the Web “Version 1.0” was about the static web site. We’ve entered into “Version 2.0” with the introduction of social networking. No longer is it enough to have a site, it must be interactive, value-based and connected to the social networks [FaceBook, You Tube, LinkedIn, Spoke, MeetUp]. Commonly perceived as a tool for the millennial younger folks, don’t pass this target customer up lightly. This generation is the future consumer and very tech savvy. Click into their world and see where your future clients or consumers are up to.
Today is an EXCITING day! As promised, we have unveiled our newly expanded & branded web site. We’re walking our talk and keeping ahead of The Jones. Be sure to stay plugged in as site content will update weekly [Friday blog post] and semi-annually [case studies]. To receive “Brain Food” quarterly for the latest branding tips, please register. Crack our head open to peek. We may have a few brain freezes to work out and welcome your comments.
client relations tip: Marketers say “stay in touch with your customers, so you stay at the top of their mind when needs arise”. Many have chosen the digital newsletter route. Fantastic; however, do you want yet another newsletter? It’s equally important to provide VALUE to your customer. Tip: rename the e-marketing piece “Quarterly XYZ Tips”. Callosum has recently adjusted our newsletter to be called “Brain Food” – A quarterly piece giving informative branding information AND our own latest & greatest. Food for thought….
client relations tip: I received a boutique newsletter in the mail today. I know the shop well and LOVE IT! But, the pretty dress in the shop window sure didn’t feel the same as the crumpled, spring rain drenched, flimsy flier I received. Brand disjuncture. May I suggest jumping on the user-friendly bandwagon of emarketing. Check out some great user-friendly options: Vertical Response, Constant Contact. Track your results, grow your database. Questions? Ask the Callo Brain. Yes, we can design, produce and manage your e-newsletter should you prefer.
Pronounced: [kawr-puh
s kuh-loh-suhm] n. pl. corpora cal·lo·sa (kə-lō’sə).
According to the American Heritage Dictionary: the arched bridge of the nervous tissue that connects the two cerebral hemispheres, allowing communication between the right and left sides of the brain.
For Callosum Creative staffers, this means we design with function and design in mind at all times. We bridge the analytical and creative sides of the brain to ensure your brand drives your sales.
leadership presence tip: Today, I had a client ask me why it’s important to use a standard color palette. What’s my answer? When you think of red – you think of Coca-Cola. When you think of Blue – you think of IBM. Reaching out to your customer through every sense is a way to cover your bases. Some folks are visual learners, audio learners. What color portrays your brand?
