I suppose it helps to build a solid network.

I've just finished reading “Career Warfare” by David D’Allesandro. A partial waste of time, but beneficial in some respects. This book only gets a half recommendation in the to-read category, and here’s why:

Only half the book is worth reading.

The only benefit I found in reading the book was in its ability to raise awareness of “my brand”, as it were. The big take home, after two-hundred and nine pages is that the little things are more important than the big things. I think the analogy went something like, “don’t wait until the game to impress the coach, start during practice!” (Kate’s going to love that one)

Fair enough. So, if I want to climb the corporate ladder to success, I need a good brand, a positive perception, to propel me. But I want to start on the top rung of that ladder in my own business. Where does a personal brand fit into that? It’s even more crucial, because I am “the company”. Bad me = bad company. I would venture to say that personal branding is what entrepreneurship is all about.

My thoughts as of late; there are three pillars of entrepreneurial networking – quality, numbers and impressions. Knowing someone well beyond their first name (quality) is key; knowing a lot of people (numbers) and making an effort to maintain this is even more key; if they know you, and see your brand in a good light (impressions), then you’re set and you can really draw on these people for information, help and collaboration.

What are a few “important” ones? (Might I add, “important” is relative): Don’t lie, don’t gossip, be aware of other’s perceptions of you ( and most importantly – be respectful (whether it’s to a server or a boss).