“Even if I don’t finish, we need others to continue.
It’s got to keep going without me.” Terry Fox
He firmly believed in his vision and made it a mission of the Terry Fox run to allow anyone to run without registering, or having to pay fees or raise minimum amounts.
"When I started this run, I said that if we all gave one dollar, we’d have $22 million for cancer research, and I don’t care man, there’s no reason that isn’t possible. No reason!”
The run has now raised over $500 million and this coming weekend sees the annual Terry Fox Run, now in its 32nd year. Our family have been taking part since my daughter was born and this will be her 10th consecutive run.
Please plan to go out and join in this weekend (or make an online donation) and take a moment to reflect on his vision and consider your own. It does not have to be as inpsiring or have such a lasting impact as his, but it does need to mean something - to YOU.
If being clear on your vision is still something you are struggling with then the 'back to school' personal brand programs that I am running this fall could be just the help you need and more. Check out the various options here - Personal Brand Back to School.
Sadly, unless there is a definitive answer, that final attribute will now always be associated with Lance Armstrong's personal brand. But always with a question. We all know him through those first three attributes, the question is can we ever not think of him without the last one?
Both sides were always too far apart for this to be concluded with anything other than the wrong result. Witnesses and experts on both sides claiming to be right. Strong personalities involved. A lot at stake. Now the truth may never be known.
Part of the confusion for many of us might be the fact that what might be a lifetime ban for some sports (e.g. cycling), can be a couple of years in athletics or results in a 50 game ban or less in baseball. Even some multiple offenders come back to play in their sport again.
For the USADA this has been a 10+ year endeavour. The rumour and insinuation has hung over Armstrong really ever since his first Tour win, or even before. His decision to no longer contest the USADA investigation, as much as they would like to think so, has not changed that.
Many cases of celebrity brands being damaged, and recovering, have been because their indiscretions were evident, recorded or admitted. Think of Martha Stewart or Tiger Woods. To varying degrees they made a come back, as have many others. The celebrity loving public can be quite forgiving, as can their sponsors.
But will the public forgive Armstrong? For many there is nothing to forgive. Does he even have to be looking at any kind of comeback? His brand is so strong in the eyes and minds of so many, even more I suggest than almost any other athlete or even celebrity, and the case still ambiguous at best, we may see mush less fall out than from other high profile falls from grace.
So what will become of Lance Armstrong?
The Livestrong Foundation he founded even before his first Tour win will continue it's mission and he will spearhead this. He has said as much. You will likely see a spike in support and donations following his announcement. Many people (myself included) see this as much bigger than him and that was the intention. That has not changed. I will continue to wear my yellow band.
His commercial interests seem at the moment to be unaffected. Nike were quick to come out in support. In time you might see some sponsors come after him for refunds, as they have with Floyd Landis. But unlike others his endoresment is so strong the potential negative reaction might be more than it is worth.
The man himself has not changed. Many are surprised by his decision, especially for someone who never seems to 'quit'. But none of us know his true purpose. The deadline was approaching for him to decide if he wanted arbitration. After 10 years of fighting this, perhaps he looked at the overall situation in relation to everything else that is important to him in life and just said, enough.
I understand, for someone who over came cancer, saying enough is okay in my book. Thanks Lance, MY perception of your personal brand is you are an athlete, survivor, philanthropist. BUT above all an inspiration - unless you say otherwise that continues for me today.
Given the plethora of TV shows - everybody's got talent.
One of the fun activities at our recent family camp was 'Talent Night'. Whilst it is generally arranged for the children to participate, we could not resist. We ended up delivering a re-worked version of LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem" based on the camp.
We managed to stay on stage! But will not be threatening LMFAO's status anytime soon! They certainly have a distinct sound, look and feel - their brand, their talent.
Can you say the same about your personal brand?
Three things to consider about your personal brand to showcase your talent;
1. How can you communicate a distinct sound?
Think of the Intel chip or Rogers Communications and the way that their brands are recognised in part by the musical notes that end any advertisements they are in. For you it could be your accent or how you emphasise certain words or phrases.
2. How is your brand reflected in your image?
Cut off shorts and leopard pants are likely not what you would wear. But there are very simple ways to stand out using a particular colour or recognised piece of clothing or jewellery worn consistently.
3. What do people feel when they interact with your brand?
Everyone has a unique essence to their brand. It is often hard to put your own words to it, but ask five people who know you well about words they would use to describe you. Likely you will see a pattern or similarities and then can think about how best to communicate that essence.
Marty Neumier talks about the 'Charismatic Brand' - a product or service for which people feel there is no substitute, the same should apply to your personal brand.
People are always looking for talent, but you need to get noticed. Having a distinct sound, look and feel will help you stand out for the right reasons in a sea of noise.
Given the plethora of TV shows - everybody's got talent.
One of the fun activities at our recent family camp was 'Talent Night'. Whilst it is generally arranged for the children to participate, we could not resist. We ended up delivering a re-worked version of LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem" based on the camp.
We managed to stay on stage! But will not be threatening LMFAO's status anytime soon! They certainly have a distinct sound, look and feel - their brand, their talent.
Can you say the same about your personal brand?
Three things to consider about your personal brand to showcase your talent;
1. How can you communicate a distinct sound?
Think of the Intel chip or Rogers Communications and the way that their brands are recognised in part by the musical notes that end any advertisements they are in. For you it could be your accent or how you emphasise certain words or phrases.
2. How is your brand reflected in your image?
Cut off shorts and leopard pants are likely not what you would wear. But there are very simple ways to stand out using a particular colour or recognised piece of clothing or jewellery worn consistently.
3. What do people feel when they interact with your brand?
Everyone has a unique essence to their brand. It is often hard to put your own words to it, but ask five people who know you well about words they would use to describe you. Likely you will see a pattern or similarities and then can think about how best to communicate that essence.
Marty Neumier talks about the 'Charismatic Brand' - a product or service for which people feel there is no substitute, the same should apply to your personal brand.
People are always looking for talent, but you need to get noticed. Having a distinct sound, look and feel will help you stand out for the right reasons in a sea of noise.
Through my wife's business I have had the opportunity to be connected to Keith Kochner at Mentorfish.com for the last few months and have found his teaching exactly what we need in the 21st century. Lots of great content, he is prolific with new insights and learnings - even for someone like me who tends to explore and read a lot!
Keith is coming to Toronto next week to hold a live evening event so you can get a full experience of what he has to offer. Cost is just covering running costs of the event, but I know you will get way more value - hope to see you there.
This weekend see's the induction of Guns & Roses in to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland - minus Axl Rose. In fact his long running dispute with some of the original band members seems to be continuing to the point where he has asked not to be included in to the induction. With very lawyer type language and a very impersonal letter to "the hall, band fans and Whom it May concern" he said;
"I strongly request that I not be inducted in absentia and please know that no one is authorized nor may anyone be permitted to accept any induction for me or speak on my behalf."
The Sex Pistols were the only previous refusals to induction and that strikes me as very on brand for them!
Certainly Rose has had more than a share of controversy, difficult life situations and outbursts, so perhaps this is just another on brand action.
But if you were faced with a similar situation in your profession alternative ways to handle this and not damage your personal brand as much might include:
1. A polite declined RSVP to the organizers. This is a highly appreciated and supported award and institution that is also recognising many of your peers not just the group you have a dispute with. Why make the event more about your absence and perceived gripes than their recognition?
2. Remember who got you there. Your own brand fans likely were integral to your being recognised, publicly refuting that support in any way is in the least crass. Create a personal message, perhaps a video in Axl's case would have worked, and post it on your web site clearly explaining your reasons in a more authentic way.
3. Take responsibility. Accept that past actions and reactions have not been looked upon favourably and this is an opportunity to step forward and change the future. Accept the invitation and use it as an opportunity to present a new YOU that everyone, especially yourself can look forward to live with going forward.
Okay, I admit it, he got me - April Fool. One of my favourite business people Sir Richard Branson announced that due to the uncertainty over currency fluctuations for vacationers he was launching his own currency within Virgin Holidays. Of course the launch was the morning of April 1st!
What made it such a good April fool trick was that given his personal brand this actually could be the kind of stunt he would do! Also it displayed the kind of humour that is also part of his brand. He certainly got me! I doubt he upset anyone with this joke.
This is key to communicating your personal brand. When you are thinking of doing something to get your message noticed consider the following 5 things;
1. Relevance - is it right for your industry and vocation?
You have to be mindful of what is appropriate. In the role you perform will this be viewed as right or a little too out there? Are your peers going to view this as embarrassing to them? If your industry is conservative , something too extreme will certainly be frowned upon.
2. Resonance - does your target audience see easily how it makes sense to them and their brand?
Consider the message you are setting and how it sits in to the bigger goals and messages of all parties involved. Is it going to add value to the experience and conversation?
3. Relation - is everyone able to see the connection to you - easily?
Usually many people are not being completely true to who they are at work. We all hold back. But if humour is a brand attribute you have and want to communicate and you go from no jokes to a 5 minute stand up routine that might be too much of a leap for people to accept initially.
4. Remarkability - does it stand out, will it get noticed?
It does need to be enough though to get noticed AND remembered. You want people to be commenting on it later and relating it straight back to you in a positive way.
5. Real - is it a true reflection of who you are?
Stay authentic and true to you, it will feel more natural and come across that way. If you try too hard it comes across that way and usually fails.
I'm working with clients right now to help them bring more of who they are to work. They are becoming more engaged and more productive. If you need help with your career or small business in 2012, call me or e-mail me to to learn how we might work together to make every work day a brand YOU day.
My trip last weekend to keynote at Ball State University took me in to the heart of basketball country. Everywhere you looked there was connection to the game.
Coupled with this has been the meteoric rise of Jeremy Lin over the past two weeks. A social media personal branding sensation.
It was a case of basketball, basketball, basketball! It truly has been LINsanity (he has just applied to trademark that phrase!).
There are a number of lessons from Jeremy's LINtastic recent success that you can take and apply to your own personal brand.
1. Continue to play to your strengths.
Even though he was not picked up originally by an NBA team, dropped and relegated to minor leagues he still continued to play to his own set of strengths.
Personal Brand Lesson
It is important to understand your weaknesses and how they might impact on your brand. But if you spend all your time on them you draw attention to them and you will never get a weakness to a point of strength. Take the extra time and effort to leverage your strengths.
2. Be ready for the opportunity.
A number of injuries and poor results gave him another chance, just when the team were considering releasing him. His persistence paid off and now he has helped the team to win 8 of the last 10 games.
Personal Brand Lesson
In the new reality that is work today the next opportunity might come when you least expect it. You have to be ready. Once you have been given the chance make the most of it and be sure to give 110%. People will remember you for your hard work and results.
3. Be authentic, remember where you came from.
There have been his detractors, but Lin has remained humble and appreciative of the chance to play. Even crass (or just thoughtless) sports reporting he recognised as a mistake and accepted apologies.
Personal Brand Lesson
Your personal brand is who you are. It should not be some false image or manufactured personna. The temptation once you have found more success might be to conveniently forget the past. Remain true to who you are and recognise what got you where you are now.
What other lessons can you see and apply to your career and personal brand from the recent LINsanity?
How often do you take time to reflect on your strengths?
I would quite confidently suggest very little. In my work with leaders and employees in Fortune 500 Companies the most under leveraged part of their personal brands are their core strengths.
Your core strengths are the things that you do so naturally and so well that you perform them almost sub-consciously. When I point out to someone that others have identified a particular strength in them they say
“Oh really, but I do that all the time!” – EXACTLY!
Many people are very poor at spending enough time on their own personal development. It might only be in their annual reviews that they do this. Those experiences are not always very positive ones. 5 minutes spent reviewing what you did well. Then 55 minutes spent on strategies to bring weaknesses up to, at best, an average level of performance.
Some may view this as either a little simplistic or harsh. Truth is that only 42% of North Americans believe that working mostly on their strengths will mean they are more successful. That drops to an alarming 24% of Japanese and Chinese.
Very often it is difficult for you to articulate your top strengths and how they might be reflected in your career to date. If you can identify those strengths, you are ahead of the game. And you will love yourself more!
You can also take this information and create your examples, or stories, around how you have used that strength in business situations. People love stories. They will be more likely to want to work with you and for you based on these emotional connections.
There are many other assessments and tests that can be taken to understand more about yourself. It is probably best to find one or two that resonate and make sense to you.
Another good personal brand exercise is to conduct a SWOT analysis – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats. In each area ask yourself these questions:
Strengths – what are my strengths, what do I have that is positive, that can help me achieve my goals?
Weaknesses – what are my weaknesses, where am I challenged the most?
Opportunities – if I was able to overcome those weaknesses and utlilise my strengths what will result for me? What is the upside?
Threats – what is the down side if I do not address those challenges?
It’s not just enough to be aware of your strengths. Take the time to discover if you have other hidden talents either through your own analysis or from the feedback of others – ideally both. The foundation of ALL strong brands are built in part on maximising strengths.
With consistency and progression comes change. As you spend more time consistently delivering on what you say your brand is and find your career progressing in the right direction, you are going to reach a point where new challenges and opportunities arise. New skills are developed and new ways to communicate your uniqueness present themselves.
This week see's the 100th edition of the Tuesday Toonie weekly e-tip, which I feel is quite a milestone. Thank you for reading, commenting and recommending to others for the last 2 years.
It is also a great time to announce some small changes to the format and delivery of this weekly resource. When we started the Tuesday Toonie the rise of Facebook and Twitter was really starting to gain traction and people subscribing to news and blog feeds was rising. Now this weekly Tuesday Toonie is only being read 10-20% of the time by people via the e-zine delivery method - the rest of the time you are reading it or getting to it via social media or directly at the blog.
This does not make the content any less valuable but with our inundated in boxes and busy lives it does beg the question about sending it out in full format in an e-zine rather than a quick mailing, linking to the blog for the full content. So going forward the Tuesday Toonie is going to be a 21 second or less read. Enough for you to maybe stop and think for a moment about your career and if you want to understand more then go to the blog to get more on that weeks topic.
We will be continuing with the monthly Inukshuk e-zine that delves deeper in to the subject of career management and personal leadership branding and provide in there links to all the previous months weekly Tuesday Toonies for anyone you might have missed. We also continue to blog and post other very latest links and resources via social media - especially our Facebook page and my LinkedIn updates, or you may just prefer to be made aware of the Tuesday Toonie via one of these methods - so if you have not done so please connect with us at;
Recent Comments