Pick your crowd carefully
What do you think your associates are saying about you?
The people, companies and groups that you are connected with say a lot about you. And it's not necessarily what they say in words. It's more about what being associated with them says about you.
"When the character of a man is not clear to you, look at his friends."
Japanese Proverb
If we don't know you then our first impressions will likely be determined by the company you keep.
If we don't know you well our opinion of you is influenced by who you associate with.
Even when we think we know you our opinion can be swayed by our opinion of the people around you.
This works both ways. Some connections lift you up and some put you down.
Clients
Your clients speak to your credibility.Are you bragging about your impressive clients? If your clients are well known then drop their names into conversations. If the company names are not well known then mention the industry. Of course be sure to get and publish testimonials from them - whether they are known or not.
Suppliers
If you are a reseller, then your product lines and suppliers can lend you credibility. This is one reason for the power behind franchises.This is why IT consultants are proud to boast that they are certified by Microsoft, SAP or Cisco. Meanwhile no one admits that they were audited by Anderson.
Memberships
Your certifications, awards and memberships send messages about you. It talks about the things you value and the institutions that respect you. Being a member of a group that is known for high ethical standards or leading edge education can help your own image. The events you attend showcase the type of people with whom you want to be associated.
Community
Your community work and support for charities reflect your character and community values. Sponsoring these groups suggests that you care and therefore might be a decent person to do business with.
Everybody is watching and judging you and your crowd. Pick your crowd carefully.
George Torok
Power Marketing
Tell me how this marketing tip helps you.
PS: Forward this tip to your associates.
PPS: Thanks for your comments and feedback.
Feedback
"George - we were all very impressed with your talk - both the substance and the form!"
Peter Churchill-Smith
Managing Director
Newport Partners
George Torok
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