I had the pleasure of going to a Lancaster Area Express Network, a local chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) national organization last week. It was a wonderful organization full of dynamic, woman. In the beginning, instead of doing the normal 30 second commercials, we all went around and shared a few different types of information. One of these prompts was, “What was one of the strangest things we did for money.” My story was the time in college I dressed up as a Veggie Tales character for a charity benefit. (I was Larry the Cucumber, in case you must know.) We all went around the table and shared some pretty hilarious stories. And guess what, I am going to remember these woman a lot better because I got to know them on a more personal level.
So, what does this mean?
Moral of the story, it’s ok to be unique. (If you want to be memorable that is.) That’s what makes you and/or your business special and bottom line what makes life interesting. Instead of thinking how can I be like everyone else, think how can I be the best version of myself? Too often in life we try so hard to be like everyone else. While we can and should learn great lessons from other people we want to emulate, we still need to make our own path and use our own talents.
Where does this come into play?
Marketing these days is a lot more personal than it used to be. Approachability is key. If you are on social media or like to blog for business reasons, you will be more successful if you share little tidbits. Nothing too personal mind you, but sharing things that are pertinent and that people can connect with. Even though you have a business, you are still human and sharing a little of your humanity is a good thing.
And speaking of humanity, check out my previous blog on Making Mistakes here.
How do you feel about being unique in business? Where is the line drawn between between different and being professional? Comment below!