We covered seven tips on how you can be helpful and gain visibility at the same time. Below are six more “helpful” tips:
- Participate. When the question arises, “Who wants to be part of our new initiative to …” make sure your name is on the list. It’s another opportunity to connect and be more visible.
- Respond. When you receive a complaint about your product or service, respond to all inquiries. Work hard to correct any insufficiencies or deficiencies.
- Answer all questions or inquiries when someone calls or writes about your product or service. Don’t ignore it. They will appreciate your responsiveness.
- Return the phone call or email preferably in less than 24 hours. Even if it’s to leave a voice mail. If you have to call at 3 a.m. to leave a message, do it. Your attention to the matter is what’s important.
- Offer your professional advice/assistance. Sign up to be a resource for other small businesses in your area of expertise. Organizations like the Small Business Administration’s SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and professional associations are always on the lookout for professional assistance.
- Do what no one else wants to do. When you hear, “We can’t find anyone else to do it…” find out why (there may be a barrier that’s difficult to overcome). If you can help…do it. It may take work, but you can definitely position yourself as the person who came in and turned a situation around.
- Befriend a journalist in your area of expertise. As you read your local or national publication, notice who writes the articles about your industry. Call or email them. Give tips and article suggestions. Writers are always looking for leads and people to interview. Why can’t you be the expert they contact to substantiate their work?
- Perform an RAK – Random Act of Kindness. Though most of these tips encourage you to toot your own horn, take time to do something without notice or fanfare. You will still be more visible, trust me.