When someone hears your name, what three words do they associate with you?  People make associations based on what they see and hear about you.  While you can't control other people, you can control what you share about yourself.   If you want to be thought of as trustworthy, then don't gossip.   If you want to be known as a problem solver, then share ideas not complaints.   Behave consistently with the image you want to project.

Take charge of your professional image!  Here are six ways you can market yourself in just five minutes a day that won't make you feel like you're bragging. 

 1.  Use the signature file on your e-mail to attach a description that positions you in a beneficial way.  Ideas include, special credentials, a personal vision statement like, "Excellence with Every Endeavor," or an invitation to visit your Web site.  

2.  Update your voice-mail message daily.  Why?   Because most people don't!  It takes all of 30-seconds to change your greeting to include the day and date, and let callers know when to expect a return call.  Or, if you're out, let people know so that they're not angry with you for not calling back.  I promise you, if you do this one step, people will respond in a positive way!

3.  If your company or professional organization has a newsletter, offer to write a short article.  Putting your name in print next to helpful information positions you as an expert.   Be sure to keep a copy for a "success" portfolio.

4.  Be on the lookout for business referrals, tips, or articles that could be helpful to your colleagues.   Pass them along with a note (and business card) saying, "Saw this and thought of you."  Again, it's a subliminal way to position yourself as a benefit to others.

5.   Any time you've received an award, promotion, or complete new training, submit a short press release along with your picture to the business section of your local newspaper, college alumni magazine, company, and association newsletters.  Most of these publications have special sections for these type of announcements. 

6.  When people casually ask, "How are you?"   use the opportunity to slip in one line about something you're doing.  An example is, "I'm doing great.  I just attended a seminar and I learned some exciting ideas.  How are you?" If you've piqued the listener's interest, you'll be invited to share more with a follow-up question.

To learn more about the gentle art of self-promotion, see my Coaching Tip:  "Marketing You and Your Career."

Interested in a coaching session with Susan to learn how to apply these ideas to your career?