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How Are You Perceived?

Tuesday, May 5th, 2009

In the playground that I refer to as the workplace, brand has always been influential, now it is more important than ever. In today’s economic environment, it takes more than just walking into the job search with an impressive resume’. It takes you standing out among the crowd. And it is a crowd today with most jobs having hundreds, if not thousands, of applications. So the question becomes, what is your brand and does it differentiate you in the marketplace?
 

Personal brand is about the person. The clearer you are about your destination, the easier it will be to communicate why others should pay attention. In addition to showcasing your own blend of expertise and experience, your personal brand should communicate the qualities and values you want to be know for—-being cutting-edge, innovative, honest, a team player.
 

You may be asking how do I describe my brand….how am I perceived by others? I suggest that you conduct an internal and external test. Write down how you would describe yourself based on qualities and values you possess. Then ask both personal and professional contacts if they see you as the type to thrive under high pressure situations, spark interest in others about your ideas, and serve as an effective manager/leader. Be prepared to accept the answers and do not get defensive and try to respond. Simply say thank you. Then analyze the comments you have received against your own description. Is there a correlation or a disconnect? Are there changes to be made to enhance your brand or is the perception of you by others what you want.
 

Today people are becoming more involved in social marketing and networking. Remember that every way you communicate, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others says a lot about you. Make sure that every “touch point” or point in which others see, hear, or interact with you, is supportive of the brand you desire. Everything must be consistent in order to create and develop a strong brand.
 

Effective personal branding serves as career protection in uncertain times. It is also a critical tool for reinventing yourself because you can leverage the reputation and skill set you already have to prove you have the ability to do the job you want.
 

So, how are you perceived?
 

Nyda
 

P. S. Check out the new format for the NC Mountain blog, I think you will really like it! I will be updating it again soon. We are getting close to the grand finale’. http://www.nydabittmannneville.com/nc_test.htm
 

 

Join me as I blog about my upcoming National Book Tour and Women’s Conference hosted by the Professional Woman Network. The tour begins in Louisville May 16th, followed by Atlanta, DC, LA and Orlando. To find out details and register for this one-of-a-kind event, click on www.NydaBittmannNeville.com and you will see the tour.
 

Image and Brand analysis is on special….now is a great time to evaluate…please email or call me to set an appointment.

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Change…like the waves on the beach

Friday, April 3rd, 2009

Greetings! 

How many of you enjoy a day at the beach? It is one of my favorite places to relax, rid myself of stress, reflect, and rejuvenate. Smelling the sea air, feeling the sand between my toes, enjoying the vitamin D from the sun, and watching the endless comings and goings of the waves. Ahhhhh yes! 

One way to think about change is that change is like waves on the beach. Just like change, waves are relentless and can be powerful, and there are only three things you can do with a wave: let it knock you down, survive it or ride it. 

Let’s take a closer look at each of these three ways to handle change. 

We let the waves of change knock us down when we take the dead roach approach to change - flat on our back, feet in the air and just out of control. What a visual! 

You can tell you are taking this approach when you say things such as: 

“I’m so stressed out!” 

“I can’t take this!” 

“This isn’t fair!” 

“Why does this always have to happen to me?” 

Doesn’t surviving change sound like a good thing to want to do? Though in a few cases it’s really the only thing you can do, it really isn’t the optimal approach to take. I don’t know about you, but merely surviving doesn’t sound like a very compelling way to live. 

If you’re thinking or saying these things, you’ve probably settled on merely surviving: 

“How can I get through this?” 

“What’s the worst that could happen here?” 

“I don’t know if I can take this.” 

“What can I do to get by?” 

The problem with taking a survival approach is that you just merely get by. When you’re ready to do more than just get by, it’s time to begin managing change. 

Riding the waves of change means seeing things from a different point of view, rather than looking out at the waves you are looking toward land from the sea. Think of riding the waves as the process of making change work for you. 

Here are some questions to ask to begin to learn how to thrive on change: 

How can I make this work for me? 

What’s good about this? 

What does this change allow me to do that I couldn’t do before? 

What positive things might this change force me to do? 

Change is inevitable. How we handle it is optional. Make the choice to ride the waves and you’re likely to create a compelling life for yourself.

How are you riding the waves? 

Nyda

 

By the way, check the NC Mountain Home updated 4.2.09 the title is The Mailbox if Almost Ready! www.helloworld.com/nydatnb and click on the icon of blogs. 

 The National Book Tour and Women’s Conference hosted by the Professional Woman Network will begin May 16th in Louisville and will end in Orlando October 3rd. Register today for this great event at www.PWNBooks.com Come, bring a friend for half price, sponsorship packages are also available.

 

  

 

 

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March Winter Madness! Are we thawing out yet? The transition from winter to spring

Friday, March 6th, 2009

Greetings! 

As the landscape begins to thaw out from winter, the experts say to trim or cut off the dead tree branches, shape up bushes, and prepare the ground for planting and the birth of spring.
 

We should take cues from the landscape both from a personal and business perspective. From the personal perspective, it is time to get hair trimmed and shaped, check your spring clothes to see if some need cleaning, mending etc. Send those light weight suits and jackets to the cleaners and gents; check out the ties to make sure there are no spills on them.
 

We have been covered from head to toe during winter and soon we will begin to lighten our load. Check to see if there are any unwanted extra pounds that have crept on to the body. Start working on getting rid of them now, not later. You want to be ready for the birth of spring!
 

From a business perspective, it is time to review your first quarter’s performance and adjust as necessary. Share the performance and any adjustments with the team as they will help to make them happen. Take time to tell your team how much you appreciate them. Are you providing the challenge, reward and motivation necessary to enhance their performance and delivery? Similar to the landscape, we need to trim and shape to position the company for the second quarter.
 

So as winter thaws and spring arrives, are you ready to welcome it?
 

Nyda
 

By the way, thank everyone who contributed to my request for the Girl Scouts and cookies for the military troops. We reached the goal of 100 boxes sent to the troops, thanks!!!!
 

Mark your calendar for the upcoming National Book Tour presented by Professional Woman Network…October 3rd the tour will be in Orlando, for more details and to register visit www.NydaBittmannNeville.com
 

Also, check out the NC Blog on the mountain house, pictures of the winter wonderland that was just experienced is showcased. Click on or copy the following link.
http://www.helloworld.com:80/global_frameset.aspx?target=myworld&ID=NydaTNB&section=blog
 

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What REALLY is Personal Image and Brand

Thursday, February 5th, 2009

Greetings!

I recently had the opportunity to gain valuable insight into personal image and brand. During the holidays I heard comments about a woman who had been admitted to a health facility. Her health had continued to decline as a result of cancer. As a valiant solider, she fought the disease, her opponent’s force returned again and again.

As people came to see her wishing her improved health, I heard them talk about her as they left the room. The comments seemed to always begin with the fact she had a smile for everyone—no matter who they were or what position they held in life, her determination, her fashionable appearance and her caring personality. I began to think about these statements and they cannot be made about everyone.

There are people who only offer their smile and attention to certain titles and positions, or to those perceived to be of importance. This woman was different. I observed doctors, nurses, friends; those who cleaned the room and maintained the facility…all treated equally…all received her smile. Some said she was always like that even when she was in extreme pain.

People commented about her determination, not only to fight cancer but in everything she did. Playing the game of golf was brought up by many people with whom she played. Even her golf pro said she had been one of his favorite students.

And then there were the comments about her dress. She had everything to match from shoes, socks, sweaters, earrings, rings and watches—she was a fashion statement. Someone said she had the knack of “focused eyes of an eagle” when it came to picking up a fashion item and knowing immediately that it would match something in her wardrobe. Even as she lay in bed dying she made sure she had different colorful sweater over her patient night gown. People would leave her room saying “she still is sporting her fashionable side”.

The other comment was her caring personality. It was described as “dedicated caring”. When she asked if she could help someone, she really meant it. For many, when an offer is made to help the hope is that it will not be accepted. Not for this woman. She would follow through with a telephone call or visit to make sure there was not something she could do.

As I reflected on the consistency of the comments made about her, THIS was her personal image and brand. She had built it over a life time of eighty years. There are many components of personal brand but in the end it is not about titles nor material objects, it is about behaviors and personal actions.

As her life came to an end, this was an individual who truly had a solid, strong brand. It was my honor to have known her and had her in my life. You see, this woman was my Mother who passed away January 8, 2009.

I hope you will think about your personal image and brand and how it will be revealed during your life time.

I wish to personally thank all who sent cards, emails, and phone calls extending your thoughts and prayers in this difficult time, I appreciated them.

Nyda

P. S. It is Girl Scout cookie time and once again this year, I am accepting orders for cookies to be sent to the military troops. Each box no matter the variety is $3.50. My goal is to send 100 boxes or more….please join me in doing so. You can make the checks payable to Girl Scouts of Citrus Council, Inc. and mail them to 3561 Bellington Drive, Orlando, Fl 32835.

Check out the North Carolina blog www.helloworld.com/nydatnb/blog and click on January 2009 there are new photos!

And mark your calendar for October 3rd for a one-of-a-kind event in Orlando. A national book tour and women’s conference will be held at Gaylord Palms…this is a five city tour across the country as the Professional Woman Network showcases the 17 books  library dedicated to women and youth. National speakers will complete this educational and motivational day. Save the date….you can register online at prowoman@prodigy.net

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Happy New Year: Resolutions, Champagne, and Leftover Fruitcake

Monday, January 12th, 2009

Greetings! 

2008 has been a challenging year to say the least. The year has been full of headlines that have not all been uplifting. And now we are getting a repeat with all the year in review we read in the newspapers and internet, and see on television. Have we not had enough?

 

With the chiming of the clock at midnight on New Year’s Eve, we welcomed in 2009. Not that we know if it will be better than 2008 but at least we have the opportunity to start anew. So let’s look at resolutions, champagne and leftover fruitcake.

 

Rather than make New Year resolutions which never seem to take hold, replace the word “resolution” with something like New Year’s outlook, perhaps New Year’s solutions, or New Year’s stepping stones. Personally, I like New Year stepping stones since stepping stones refer to small stones used to get somewhere or reach a destination. What are your 2009 stepping stones? Each stone may represent a goal you would like to achieve this year — learning a new skill, obtaining a new job, eating healthy, etc. As your new journey unfolds, you will enjoy taking another step.

 

As the New Year arrived, many toasted champagne to celebrate. One thing I love about champagne is the effervescence that comes from the bubbles once the bottle is uncorked — they seem to tickle your nose. Similar to the “pop” that happens with the uncorking of the bottle; what new ideas will “pop” for the New Year in your life? New ideas, new thoughts, and new directions for your life using the stepping stones you created — and the new hope for a year of enjoyment, challenge and success.

 

How many of you had fruitcake during the holidays? There are many of you trying to figure out what to do with the leftover fruitcake…possibly re-gift, ha!

Look at leftover fruitcake as the behaviors and habits that may have served you well in the past but need to be left behind to continue to be a successful manager and leader. I would like to suggest picking up the book titled What Got You Here Won’t Get You There written by Marshall Goldsmith. The book covers twenty one habits and behaviors that I am sure you may see yourself performing — you might even laugh out loud, I did.

 

Please let us know your 2009 stepping stones, what new ideas “popped” and what behaviors and habits you decided to throw out with the left over fruitcake.

 

Toast to the New Year of 2009 — may it be all you desire!

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Happy Holidays and Best to You in the New Year

Thursday, December 18th, 2008

Greetings!
 

It has been a pleasure bringing my blogs to you throughout the year. I hope that you have enjoyed them, benefited by them, and shared them with others. I know I have many requests to add friends and family to the distribution list.
 

Nyda’s Blogs 2009 will continue and will be distributed the first Friday of each month. Each will focus on an aspect of image and brand in a new and challenging fashion. I hope that you will tune in and share your thoughts and ideas.
 

The Magnolia, my internet show, will continue “live” each Friday at 9am and will focus on topics of interest in the areas of image, brand and business culture. As many of you know, the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council now appear once a month to showcase all the great things they do for the young women of greater Central Florida. There are many exciting guests lined up for the first quarter. Additionally the show will air at special events, businesses and happenings somewhere around the globe. You can access The Magnolia at www.TheMagnolia.TV and click on “listen live”. You can view the live show, see when the next show will air and view any archived shows.
 

The North Carolina Blogs will continue until our mountain home is finished mid 2009. Updated pictures and progress reports appear with each trip or milestone. Click on www.HelloWorld.com/nydatnb  and select “blog”.
 

Happy Holidays and see you in the New Year!
 

Nyda

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After Five…The Professional Image Keeps on Ticking

Friday, December 5th, 2008

Greetings!
 

The professional image does not stop when the clock hits five. Frankly, the impression you make on others after work is just as important as the one you make between nine and five. Whether for a black tie affair, a company picnic, a movie with colleagues, or dinner with clients, dressing well is a must.
 

So now with the holidays upon us and parties and other events are lined up on the calendar, here are some tips for avoiding the embarrassment of showing up under or overdressed for the occasion.


 

  • When the invitation says “casual” it is best to call your hosts and ask them what they mean. Sometimes casual means slacks and a top, sometimes a sport coat and tie or a cocktail dress. The type of affair, the region of the country, and the people present will have a lot to do with dress requirements. If the affair is an open house it probably calls for a suit or a sport coat and tie for men, a dress, two-piece dress, jacket and city shorts, or, depending on the time of the day, dinner suit or cocktail dress for women.
  • For an evening function with cocktails at six or dinner at seven, consider these options. Women—A black or dark-colored dress or black or dark-colored evening suit, ultra sheer hosiery in dark tones, evening pumps or strapped sandals, dramatic jewelry, and a small handbag or clutch. Velvet is worn around the holiday season. Men—A dark suit in navy, black, or charcoal gray, tie, dress shirt in white or colored with contrasting white collar, and black shoes.
  • For a black tie affair, consider the following: Women—Short, three quarter, or long evening dress in silk, chiffon, crepe, taffeta, organza, or velvet; dramatic jewelry, evening clutch, strapped evening sandals, and ultra-sheer hosiery. Men— Black-tie tuxedo, dress shirt, black hose, and black patent leather shoes. As an executive, you do not want to overdo it. Women should avoid overly bright, flamboyant colors and designs, and men should avoid fur lined cummerbunds and extravagant ties. Stick to the basic black.
  • For those formal affairs such as a ball, consider these options. Women—A long gown (no pants), with or without sequins, in taffeta, silk, chiffon, or organza, with dramatic jewelry, clutch, strapped sandals, and ultra-sheer hosiery. Men—White tie and tailcoat. Black tuxedo is acceptable. Again, do not overdo it.

Now is the time to review your closet and make sure the “after five” clothes are clean, pressed, and ready to go. In addition to your outfit, remember to brush up on your etiquette.
 

Enjoy the beginning of the holiday season.
 

Nyda
 

P. S. If you, your company or a group of friends would like to participate in a Dining Executive Etiquette course, please contact me.

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Let’s Talk “Thanks” of the Holiday

Thursday, November 20th, 2008

Greetings! 

We have been on a roller coaster ride most of 2008 and it will probably continue through 2009. Our 401K is now a 101K, gas has experienced highs and lows rarely seen, and the business motto is “do more with less”. So what do we have to be thankful for this holiday season? More than you can imagine. 

 

I would like to invite you to make a list, yes write it down on paper, of the top ten things you are thankful for this holiday. After you have made the list, then look at each item and determine how you should say “thanks”. If it is a person’s love or friendship, how will you let them know? If you are thankful for your health, think of ways to continue to stay healthy. Use this holiday season to say thanks to your top ten. 

 

These behaviors and actions have an impact on the people to whom you say “thanks” and will enhance your image and brand. I am sure the impact will be positive. 

 

Please share with us your top ten list or parts of it and how you are going to say thanks. Something that you are doing may be just perfect for someone else to do as well. Idea sharing is wonderful! 

 

Have a great Thanksgiving, 

 

Nyda 

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Marketing Materials have a Loud Voice…

Thursday, November 6th, 2008

Greetings! 

The marketing materials you present to others shout, sing, whisper, and communicate in volumes. 

For some of you marketing materials are provided by the company with whom you are employed. While you may not have control over the color palette or design of the materials, you do have control over the presentation. 

Others do have the option of designing the content, selecting the color palette, the sizes of the materials, websites, in other words, every aspect of the process. Color palettes should be based on two considerations; one is your target market and the other is the industry or type of work you perform. For example, popular color palettes for financial institutions, accountants and lawyers are hunter green, medium to dark blue, and burgundy all accented with gold or silver. These color palettes represent stability which is important to the target market of this type of industry. 

No matter whether you do or do not have control over the marketing materials you use, here are several tips to ensure they speak “positive” voices about you and enhance your image and brand. 

  • Present business cards from a card holder, these are made in both masculine and feminine designs. 

  • Make sure business cards and other marketing materials are clean and not folded in any way. 

  • Brochures should not display any writing on them or incorrect information crossed out and the correct information written. 

  • Identify creative ways to utilize your brochures, websites, note cards etc., know the material content and use them as a tool to support your conversations effectively. 

Take time to review your marketing materials now to be prepared for the next months of holiday gatherings. Use these events to promote yourself, your business, products and services in a professional manner. 

Let the voice of your marketing materials sing beautifully! 

Nyda 

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Turning Back the Clocks…getting an extra hour of sleep

Thursday, October 30th, 2008

Greetings! 

 

Today I heard an interesting medical finding presented on my local television station. When we turn back the clocks an hour there is a drop in heart attacks the Monday following the turn back. The medical research experts indicate that it is because people get an extra hour of sleep. That got me thinking about getting adequate sleep and our image. 

 

We know that when we feel good we project a more upbeat, positive image to others. Sleep of course is one of the components that make us feel good, and function more effectively; others are exercise and the right foods. I did some research of my own on the topic of sleep and found it is suggested that adults get 7-8 hours of sleep. So I inquired of several people on how much sleep they got nightly…it did not add up to those figures in any way shape or form. Most said if they got 4-5 hours they were lucky. When asked why, there were all kinds of answers ranging from children and family needs coming first and their well being last to house hold chores, work projects, watching movies or shows, and having trouble even getting to sleep. My goodness, those are a lot of reasons not to get a good night’s sleep even when we know it is good for us. 

 

So what should we do to combat this? Here are a few suggestions: 

  • Keep the bedroom for sleeping rather than watching TV 

  • Add soft music 

  • Go to bed at the same time nightly so as to develop a habit 

  • Finish eating at least three hours prior to bed time 

  • Take several deep breaths as you retire to bed 

  • Practice relaxation techniques 

 

What techniques do you use to get a good night’s sleep? 

 

Try to catch that extra this weekend and discover how good you feel, how better you project your image to others….I think you might find it beneficial to try and get some zzzz’s. 

 

Enjoy the weekend, 

 

Nyda 

 

 

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