I Got Street Cred!

Okay maybe not “street cred” exactly. It’s more like a credible profile on Linked In. :) I just want to give my testimony as to how having a good reputation goes a long way. And, how easy it is these days for people to gain access to your “rep.”

I have subscribed to many of the most popular social sites because it has been reported to assist with business and social networking. Until now, I had no real evidence of its value.

After querying key people that I know in publishing for a line editor, on behalf of a client who is about to self-publish his memoir, my inquiry garnered some impressive options. The author and I made a choice and I went on to work out the deliverable and payment schedule. The editor, whom I’ve never met, sent an email that asked “Are you the same Ms. Brooks who runs Ajoy?” “I am.” “Okay, I am familiar with your company and you are on Linkedin. So, I will take half up front and half on delivery. Normally, I don’t do that but you have a good reputation.”

Over the years, I had not received a lot of feedback on my business reputation. I was glad, that at the very least, completing my “profile” on Linked In had served me well.

My feeling on reputation is that you can’t “create” a good reputation. It’s really based on perception. If you want people to perceive your reputation positively, I would say honesty goes a long way and is the most important quality one could have. At the end of the day, even if those you interact with are not getting positive news, they will appreciate your forthrightness (is that a word?) and will be clear on your decision(s).

Building your street cred “profile”:

• Be honest with people you interact with professionally (and personally, for that matter).
• Don’t put yourself out for more than you can actually accomplish.
• Do what you say you’ll do. Your word is your bond.
• Edit your “profile” regularly with the positive influences you’ve been on people and businesses.

Do you know your professional reputation? Where do you get feedback on your rep good or bad?

Comments

[Julius]

Building your reputation online is a strange thing. I did all of the things you mentioned above. You can Google me under: "Mazilu Mircea". As my experience has taught me, building your "street cred" is very much like branding. It is true that branding involves slightly more.

My conclusion is that we should always try to "brand" our names in business or make a totally new brand.

[TPB]

Thanks for your comment Julius. Has any person given you feedback on your work?