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It’s the most frequently asked question, like, ever. “So, what do YOU do?” So many answers, so little time. THE CHALLENGE: coming up with a memorable, concise and brand-consistent message. However, there’s no one-way to do it! Let’s explore ten different approaches to answering this question. 1. The Lois Creamer Approach “I work with (target market) who want to (desired outcome) so they can (benefit).” EXAMPLE: “So, what do…

One of my favorite movies is M. Night Shaymalan’s Unbreakable, staring Bruce Willis. He plays David Dunn, a mild-mannered security guard who discovers he’s a superhero. The coolest part of the movie is when he finally comes to terms with his true identity. “I wasn’t hurt in that car accident,” he admits. “I’ve never been injured.” “What do I do?” “Go to where people are,” Samuel Jackson says. “You…

Next time someone says to you, “Do as I say, not as I do…” A red flag should go up. Think about it. This person is willfully admitting that his words and actions are not consistent. Which represents a deficiency in character. My mentor Bill Jenkins always reminded me, “Character is the degree to which your words and actions are congruent.” Yes! Yes! Yes! 100% Also, William Shakespeare once…

Everyone loves kids. Because kids are fun and creative and positive and playful. Which makes them approachable. And what’s cool is, any time an adult comes in contact with a kid, those attributes transfer. Even the biggest, toughest, most polished executive will stop in their tracks, bend down and say, “Where’s your nose? I got your nose!” So, if children are approachable (and as a result, everyone loves being…

It’s not luck. It’s not chance. It’s not accidental. It’s not even serendipity. (Not completely, that is.) “Strategic” Serendipity means attending an event, conference or other networking-rich venue with an attitude of expectation. That something great is going to happen. That opportunity is going fall right into your lap. That you’re going to meet that one person who changes everything. Here are 8 keys to practicing Strategic Serendipity: 1….

(To watch a video of The Giant Nametag, click here!) Just got back from my first ever BEA experience. Here’s what I learned: 1. Attitude. In a sea of thousands of people all trying to get noticed, you have NO choice but to be unforgettable and remarkable. So you better begin with the attitude of approachability. That you’re going to stick yourself out there. 2. Detach from outcomes. Sure,…

Shakespeare once said, “Action is eloquence.” Wow. Consider the sheer magnitude of those three words. Action is eloquence. Brings to mind a few thoughts: 1. Having a great, positive attitude doesn’t do you any good if you don’t follow UP, and follow THROUGH with action. 2. Goals without actions are just dreams. (Not sure who gets credit for that line, but it’s true.) 3. People don’t give you credit…

Growing up? Ha! Once a kid, always a kid. And my friends Kim and Jason agree. They’re two of the coolest, most creative and folks I know. That’s why I’m proud to be featured in their brand-spankin’ new publication, Escape Adulthood. Download a PDF of the issue here. They even included a picture from when I was seven years old! Try not to laugh too hard… LET ME ASK…

It’s rare to have an epiphany while standing in the middle of Hooters. But I guess there’s a first time for everything. “Look around this bar,” my friend Matt urged, “and tell me what you see.” “Um … hooters. I see hooters,” I said. “Alright, wise-guy. Now tell me what you REALLY see,” he joked. “Well, I see lots of businesspeople.” “OK. Good,” he said. “Now. Do you know…

There are 55 strategies in my new book. Right now you are about to read what I believe is the best one. My fave. Numero uno. Ready? It’s called a Daily Appointment with Yourself. I’ve been practicing this technique every single day for five years, and I submit to you that it’s the most valuable habit I’ve ever developed. Ever. It all started in Portland. I moved there after…