June 9, 2006
Credibility Equals Success
In creating a solid personal brand, you must establish credibility. If you are just getting started in your line of work, you may wonder how you can do this. Here are three majors areas of credibility, and ways in which you can cultivate it:
Expertise. This shows the world that you know your field. A degree or certificate in your area of specialty immediately communicates a certain level of mastery. Even if you don’t have a degree in the field you would like to pursue, you can undertake shorter-term coursework, or work intensively to earn a certificate, such as a CPA license. To project confidence, state your positions with authority. For instance, instead of saying, “I think this font works well”, make a bolder statement, such as, “This font is perfect.”
Trustworthiness. It takes time to earn the trust of your clients and business partners. Only with a track record of honesty and integrity can you foster a deep level of trust and confidence in you. However, you can start building that trust today, by only making commitments you are capable of honoring and always being honest and open. If you make a mistake, admit it. If you don’t know the answer, say so. If you are an entrepreneur just getting started, you can provide testimonials on your Web site, or offer a guarantee on your products and services. You will never do yourself any service by taking advantage of your customers. Business integrity is essential to your long-term success.
Goodwill. Your clients need to feel that you care about them and their needs. Showing a genuine interest in and commitment to your business partners communicates to them that you are a person of honor who deserves their trust and business. Let people know that you understand them and have things in common with them. Ask about their children, hobbies, or travels. Make a connection.
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View Dave Lorenzo's profile
“A degree or certificate in your area of specialty immediately communicates a certain level of mastery.”
Unfortunately this is no longer a reliable means to determine if someone has mastered anything.
I am in the wonderful and crazy world of software. Certificates are earned by simply memorizing the material and never really mastering anything. Some of the worst software developers have passed all of the certification tests, but they can’t write software to save their soul.
I am also in the Health Care sector. I learn disturbing things about our health care system weekly. The prevailing thought among medical professionals is that if you can memorize a lot of facts, you can become a doctor. You do need a good mind and a decent IQ to accomplish this. It hardly makes you an excellent physician.
So how do we really discern when we are working with a master or a human dictionary? I really wrestle with this, David.
Eric Boehme
Comment by ericboehme — June 9, 2006 @ 20:24
The point I was trying to make is partially about actual mastery and partially about perception.
First:
It does take effort and ability to memorize information. The information is more valuable if you know how to apply it productively. Superachievers often possess both the information and the ability to apply it.
Next:
Certificates can also serve as benchmark for a loosely-regulated or overly complex industry. In many industries, a certification helps sort out the people who are willing to put in some effort and adhere to some form of standard.
Finally:
The best way to determine if someone is “the real deal” is to interview them and ask to see specific examples of the work. After you speak with them, you should also ask to speak with their customers (and a few competitors or peers).
Ultimately, a certificate (or a degree) is going to help create a positive perception of you in the minds of others. If it helps open doors, it’s definitely worth the effory.
Thanks for the comment and for reading The Career Intensity Blog.
Comment by Dave Lorenzo — June 10, 2006 @ 14:04