Ways I Embrace my Audience

Brogan 100 #2

Not sure that I can forgive Mr Brogan for this gem. It is proving a little more challenging than usual. Biggest question is how I can relate this to confidence or self esteem? I am guessing that the original question was aimed at those who blog for profit, which is not my intention here anyway, so I will amend my focus accordingly!

If you are reading this, then you are part of my audience. Having been a trainer for the last 15 years, I am used to the idea of having my group of trainees as my audience. The problem was that they were often there under sufference (after all, it was mortgage training!)

So looking at a broader perspective, we all have an audience. Everyone we come into contact with on-line or in the real world. Hence my attempt to spread a little wisdom here is about how approachable (embracing) you are, and how people would know at first sight by the clues that you are giving them.

You have probably heard the phrase “you only have 30 seconds to make a first impresssion”? I always wondered how they could possible measure that, and I was once told that it came from the 1960 debate between JFK and Nixon – regardless of your political persuasion, how do you want your audience to percieve you?

In my days as an image consultant, I was always got a boost from suggesting small changes that people could make to their image to support the image that they wanted to portray. It is a little like acting in front of an audience, since you put on a costume for the role (business suit or evening  dress) and adjust your make-up accordingly. My biggest, but most enjoyable transformation, was when working with a beautifully mannered elderly gentleman in a tweed suit who was actually a cross-dresser. He looked very different in a wig and velvet dress!

But in addition to the image you present to the world (and if you insist on all-over tatoos, ripped denim or the latest vampire look, don’t be surprised when many people cannot look beneath your facade to identify the warm and caring person that hides beneath), there is also what you personally stand for. What are your core values?

I am currently working on a joint venture with Lynda Hill, (host of the popular  BNNTV’s Studio Chat program on Dating) to create a workshop on Personal Branding, which will tie image into what you want to be known for – your personal brand. Will you be seen as JFK or Nixon? Will your audience want to embrace you?

Oh yes, and never forget the value of your smile!

For more on Personal Branding, have a look at Chris Schawbel’s regular blog.

Amanda