Potential Clients Want Your Story
Today’s Marketing Strategies call for more than a witty tagline. Sure, there is a place and time for them. However, most people, when asked will say that your personal business story is what really sticks. It doesn’t have to be long and can be marginally visual. We all like pictures!
This week, I met with a client about designing his website. I asked for him to tell me his story. I wish I had thought to pick up my smartphone and capture the image of his face as it lit up. He told me of his first re-finishing project: A rocking chair.
This rocking chair work made a huge impact in his life. As a result, I was compelled to use the image of a rocking chair as the website banner. What an icon one piece of wood can be to someone who loves their craft!
My Story
Well, my story is not completely glamorous. Regardless, I came to the realization of my strengths. I started out as a File Clerk in an Accounting Office. This was not what I had in mind while going to school. “Just a stepping stone”, I reminded myself.
I decided I would be the best damn file clerk that firm would ever know! Carefully attaching color-coded letters to color-coded folders. Making sure everything was in its place at all times and policing all who pulled files. “Don’t forget to complete a check-out form.”, I would caution.
Fast forward to 2003, I was the Executive Assistant to the President and CEO of an aerospace company. This nice fellow asked me to manage the Hazardous Waste documents. There were many from EPA, AQMD, through Storm-Water Management.
“Elysia, back in 1998, we received a citation from either EPA or DTSC. Can you find this for me?”, he asked one afternoon.
I clicked my nails together and thought for a moment. Then, swinging my chair toward my bookshelf, I picked up a notebook. This notebook said “DTSC/EPA”. Flipping through the book, I settled on a page (protected by a clear cover, of course.)
“Is this it?”, I asked. With wide eyes, he nodded. Coincidentally, he was astonished that I’d found it so quickly. Why was he surprised? Had he not hired me for such purposes?
Over the years, I have ventured into the worlds of Database Management, Business Analysis, Content Administration, and now as a freelance Virtual Assistant. Needless to say, the journey has been as trying as wonderful. A fairly decent balance of good times and bad make up my story.
Write your Story
Do you remember that pivotal moment when you found your life’s calling? Have you implemented it into your Business Plan, Marketing Plan, or Website? If you have not arrived at these junctures, I recommend that you save this post until you do so.
So go ahead and write your story. Additionally, share it with the world. Well, at least your clients! I know you have a good story in you! – E