Build Your Brand Through Networking

Meeting new people for the first time can leave a lasting impression. The same goes for the first time you 'meet' brands!  All brands have personalities just like people and the first time consumers or potential consumers are introduced to them is the most significant.

Make sure your brand has a polished introduction that reflects the standards of the brand no matter how the initial interaction takes place.  Branding comes in countless forms; a magazine ad, a television commercial, an event invitation, a tweet or a brief meeting with one of the brand's representative. 

It is crucial to have a consistent message and 'elevator speech' for employees. People become the brand and being able to control it without it appearing forced may be a challenge. This is why brand ambassadors play a key role in developing the reputation of an existing one or crafting the voice of a new one. 

In a lot of scenarios, networking events, business meetings, people are the first connectors to a brand or company. It's been proven time and time again that people like to do business with likable people who are confident.

Learn your brand's elevator speech or create one if it doesn't exist.  Add in a personal touch so people know what you bring to the table. An elevator speech is just a few minutes but it will have a lasting impression.

"Maximizing your connection in a minimal time" is how Lynda.com describes an elevator speech. LinkedIn offers several courses that can act as a crash course for employees. An example is a tutorial video by Lynda.com by LinkedIn.

People are the brand. Every interaction needs to be polished. From the subject line to the signature of an email, individuals are representing the brand. Make it a positive lasting impression.