Just like Melissa, you too are always marketing yourself--whether you like it or not. So, you'd better be prepared to put your best foot forward and to always be professional.

5 Ways to Present Yourself Professionally

• Dress Professionally:  The saying "you can't judge a book by its cover" won't serve you well in business. Would the TV news producers have requested an interview if Melissa had been wearing torn jeans and a T-shirt that day?
  
  
• Proofread your Communications Carefully:  I interact with thousands of small business professionals each year. A common dilemma is lack of time. Nonetheless, we all need to slow down and do more proofreading before we hit the send or post buttons.     


• Keep Your Commitments:  Honor appointments, arrive on time, and meet your deadlines.      


• Invest in Professional Photography:  A professional headshot can be the difference between being seen as an industry veteran or a $10-an-hour novice. For as little as $100, you can get a professional image that you can use multiple places:  your Facebook Page, your website, your business cards, your LinkedIn profile, your email signature--just to name a few.    


• Be Consistent with your Brand: Do your business cards, website, and Facebook Page have a similar look and feel? What about your marketing emails? (We can help you there! Please see the Constant Contact Corner below.)