Comments for Duane's Dartboard

Comment on To Be Findable, Share Your Content Online by Duane Hallock

Duane Hallock — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:54:36 +0000

Honestly, I had never heard of these expert networks, so thanks for sharing. As I checked them out, I observed that they all have some type of consulting or transaction fees associated with them (unlike LinkedIn and Facebook). That’s not to say they are not good tools or platforms, but they are not an “apples-to-apples” comparison to other more widely-known and used social networking platforms.

Comment on To Be Findable, Share Your Content Online by Troy Breiland

Troy Breiland — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:26:58 +0000

In addition to Linkedin and Facebook, I would suggest joining an Expert Network like Gerson Lehrman Group, Maven Research, or CognoLink. There are more than 40 networks to choose from, covering virtually every industry, profession and geography. Expert networks allow you to increase your professional visibility while conducting micro-consulting engagements and networking with decision makers in your field.

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Blend Personal and Professional by Duane Hallock

Duane Hallock — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:14:56 +0000

Jill, you already do a great job of branding yourself personally and professionally. You are one of those cool people who is already authentic and transparent, and that attitude seeps through the cracks.

Interestingly, when I presented this workshop several weeks ago to university students from all across the country, this was the one area where they felt most uncomfortable. They pushed back at the idea they might have to reveal something personal about themselves to a prospective employer. It has been so ingrained in them by professors, parents, friends and others that their personal lives are private that they don’t know how to blend the two.

Great suggestion on providing specific examples of how to do it right! Thanks.

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Blend Personal and Professional by Your PR Chick

Your PR Chick — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:55:16 +0000

Interesting article Duane. I admit, I’ve always gone the other direction with my job interviews, etc. But then, perhaps I have so much personality it just seeps out thru the cracks. Perhaps you could write your next article on some specifics, the do’s and don’ts of branding yourself in social media?

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Create a Unique Elevator Speech by Duane Hallock

Duane Hallock — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:19:39 +0000

Meggan, thanks for your comments. I was just bemoaning the fact that your busy life has kept you from blogging, and then you publish a post. As always, it’s a worthwhile read! (Check out Meggan’s blog at http://megganrorvig.com/).

Duane

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Create a Unique Elevator Speech by Eric Morgenstern

Eric Morgenstern — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:00:54 +0000

Thanks for the kind words, Duane…keep up the terrific work! See you soon…

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Create a Unique Elevator Speech by Meggan Rorvig

Meggan Rorvig — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:40:56 +0000

Duane,

Great post (as usual!) I’m grateful for the recent daily posts. Great reminders of the need to continue focusing on branding. Admittedly, I’ve let my focus slip, but your blog posts are giving me motivation!

Meggan

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Create a Unique Elevator Speech by Duane Hallock

Duane Hallock — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:47:03 +0000

Points well taken, Eric. Thank you. Back in 2008 I attended your workshop "Think Excellence Not Difference." I distinctly remember your excellent message and am grateful for this reminder several years later. Your core message has remained the same, but you and Morningstar Communications remain relevant by continually finding new ways to clarify your message, connect with the right people and change behavior.

Comment on To Be Differentiated, Create a Unique Elevator Speech by Eric Morgenstern

Eric Morgenstern — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:34:46 +0000

Duane — I believe your elevator speech should be only five seconds long. Mark Twain said, “if I had more time, I’d have written a shorter letter.” Brevity is key. And Godin is spot-on, it should help generate a follow-up question and engagement from the recipient, not tell your whole story.

However, as you know, for 20+ years we have shared our foundation positioning strategy (this works for a person, business or organization) entitled, “Think Excellence, Not Difference.” Tell your story from the recipients’ perspective…why are you their best choice; not what makes you different from their other options.

This is a sustainable, permanent positioning. For example, at Morningstar Communications we say, “We help you clarify your message, connect with the people who matter most, and change behavior.” More often than not, we get follow-up questions and then we’re in a conversation.

Thanks, Duane, for all you do to help people grow and succeed!

Comment on To Be Relevant, Focus on Your Cover Letter by Sheila Myers

Sheila Myers — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:41:08 +0000

Great advice, Duane. And very relevant for those of us actively involved in a job search.