Perception, Visibility, and Influence: The Success Trinity!

● Utilize the following mental model of how our minds perceive anything because ultimately our perceptions become our reality. The model progresses from observation to assessment to forming an opinion, then making a judgement, to a subjective reality, a firm belief, and finally to a true point of view. EVERYBODY has a “true” (in their view) POV of you and your business.

● Remember Warren Buffet’s wise words, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and 5 minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.”

● Step into the other guy’s shoes. There are 7 influences on perception. They are: cultural background, personal traits, family, regional characteristics, social skills, social circle, and gender challenges. Take time to reflect on and test out your own and others’ biases and stereotypes so as to…

● Customize your leadership style to the people in front of you.

● Network, and discuss how your business is perceived by important other people in your world.

● Begin with three adjectives, three words that sum up how you want your business to be perceived, e.g. authentic, trustworthy, resourceful, committed, etc. Then list the behaviors that prove and support your words.

● Plan your changes. Make one or two behavior changes at a time. Don’t move on to the next perception changer until you have internalized the preceding ones.

● Practice at every opportunity. Request and be open to timely, accurate feedback.

Tips to Boost Your Visibility

Building and maintaining your visible presence is all about showcasing yourself in ways that are compelling to all of the key business stakeholders.

● How does the process of increasing visibility occur? First, we all notice that which stands out from the norm. Second, we recognize benefits (WIFMs are “what’s in it for me”). Third, we are remembered when our skill and knowledge (our “value”) is needed again.

● Sustain your visibility by ensuring you add value and deliver your products and services with impact. Then self-promote…

● Develop and rehearse your business story. Hone it down to an impactful elevator pitch that you can quote unselfconsciously.

● Trumpet your business results and achievements. Always talk facts and figures and specific customer recommendations. Discuss the specific actions you took to achieve these results.

● List and share your achievements at every opportunity and record what you’ve shared, with whom and when to avoid embarrassing repetition.

● Focus on the benefits to others.

● Give credit to others, raising the visibility of peers, employees, and other contributors. Promoting others always leads to reciprocal promotion.

● Seek out advocates and create business ambassadors. Discuss with them the rationale and benefits of advocacy and make it mutual.