Are you passionate about what you do? Do you truly know that what you have to offer your client’s makes a difference and provides definite value? When you’re talking to someone about what you do, are you excited? Do you love talking about every detail, and why it’s so cool?
If the answer is yes, then are you using the online tools available to let people know the level of your conviction? Can they sense your passion? Do you engage them so they can get a sense of, and even share your vision?
I love the way the internet has given everyone with a connection a way to get their voice out there. A way to let people know how excited you are about how you (or your products or services) can help them.
Tools You Can (and should) Use
Some things you should be doing and places you could be spending time to develop your online presence, build your brand and develop your voice as an authority in your industry.
Blogging (also known as Content Marketing, when it’s applied to business)
Set up (or have someone set up) a WordPress site and become a blogging expert. This is one of the most powerful tools you can currently use to build and develop your brand online.
Here are some articles I’ve written to give you more information in this area:
Social Networks
Spending time on sites like these can help you not only spread the word about what you have to offer, but almost more importantly help you develop networks and relationships with other professionals that can help you move forward with your own business.
- Google+
These are just some of the heavy hitters. There are a lot of other networks out there. Find the ones that suit you best. Find the ones where your customers hang out.
Video, Video and MORE Video!
There will never be such a thing as too much video! If you’re nervous about putting out video, don’t be.
It’s no secret that YouTube.com has greatly lowered the standards of what we consider acceptable video production quality.
Gear?
Have a web cam? Sit in front of it and GO! Most point-and-shoot cameras can now do acceptable (and sometimes awesome) web quality video.
Got an iPhone or iPad2? You can start doing video to help develop your web presence.
Using video is a very effective way for you to show people how passionate you are about what you have to offer. They can feel like you’re right there with them.
Take Me, For Example
Look at the videos I’ve done for ImagePerceptions.com. Nothing high quality about them, and I’m definitely not a smooth professional spokes person, but I’ve gotten good feedback from new clients that told me were excited to work with me because they already felt like they had met me. I was already, through my videos, giving them helpful information (for free) on how they can help improve the online aspects of their business..
Video Content in Search
Another benefit to having more content on YouTube is that YouTube has become a powerful and well used search engine. The more video you have there, the more chance you have of being found and connecting with new clients.
Okay, this post kind of just scratches the surface of the tips of a few different icebergs. (combine metaphors much?). I’ve written several posts on each of these topics. Dig through my blog and you’ll find more information on each of these topics I’ve covered here.
More importantly, if you’re not using these tools yet, get out there! Set up a Facebook page for your business today. Twitter’s a different animal. It takes a while to get the hang of it, but once you do, you’ll really appreciate it. Maybe even love it! (maybe)
Point is, Just Get Started!
How About You?
Are you passionate about what you do? What’s your experience in using these tools to develop your online presence? I’d love to hear any of your stories or suggestions here.
