If you want to stand out from the competition at work or in your business industry, then you need to be seen as an expert in your field. Having a degree in a certain discipline or work for years in the same industry does not automatically deem you as an expert, however, they are extremely beneficial. You have to strategically brand yourself as such. No one will do this for you.  You have to take deliberate steps and actions to build your reputation as an expert. Just telling people that you’re an expert is not enough.  You need to demonstrate it.
 
Here are a few simple strategies to help you develop yourself as a subject matter expert.
 
Educate Yourself
 
First and foremost, make sure that you’re educated on what you’re doing. If you’re working in the marketing department of a company and you want to be seen as the go-to person on anything related to marketing, then you need to know what you’re talking about. Below are a few things you can do to educate and re-educate yourself, and position yourself as an expert in your field.

• Get a certification. Becoming certified in your profession is a good way to show yourself as an expert.  Getting certified requires a certain level of knowledge because it usually involves a structured process with includes some form or test or exam to test that knowledge. Passing the exam is an indicator that you know your stuff.
• Workshops and conferences. No matter what industry you are in, there will be local and non-local workshops and conferences related to your area of expertise. It is worth the investment to stay abreast of the latest trends, theories and practices in order for you to always be on top of your game. Try to attend at least 2 of these events per year.  Choose carefully to be sure that the content aligns with what you want to learn or expand on in your field. This is an investment that you should receive a return worth much more than your registration fee. But remember, you must actually use the tools you receive in order to reap that return on investment.
• Take an online course or online self-paced program. The traditional way of being educated has changed.  No longer do you have to enroll in a whole 2-year or 4-year degree program.  No longer do you have to commit to showing up to a physical class on specific dates or times. You can take a structured, online class in the comfort of your own home. You can also register for online professional development courses that are self-paced. These programs can be anywhere from 4-weeks to 6 weeks-long and you can complete them at your own pace.

 
Demonstrate Your Knowledge
​

• Blog. Bloggers usually focus on one particular area of interest.  This is a subject that they are intimately interested in and know a lot about. A lot of people rely on bloggers to get information so blogging about your profession can show you as a reliable source.
• Write  a book. Authorship is an awesome way to flex your expertise. Think about all of the industry-related information that you have that is relevant, timely, and valuable that you can share in your book.  You can share your experiences and perspective along with your professional acumen.
• Get an article published. Research opportunities to submit articles to magazines (physical or online) that cater to your profession. If you don’t have the time or interest in writing a full book, this would be a fantastic alternative. You will have an opportunity to be amongst other professionals in your industry. The people who read these magazines trust that those featured in the magazine are experts and know what they are talking about.
• Radio Interviews. There are a ton of radio shows out there now, especially internet radio shows.  Research the different shows to determine which ones might be interested in your industry and your expertise.  Find out their process for interview request submissions and submit a request to be a guest on the show.
• Sign up for a TEDX talk. This is an awesome way to get out in front of people who are interested in your profession, area of expertise, interests or passions. There are local chapters in most states.  Attend one first to get a feel for it. If you feel like it’s the right platform for you, apply to give your own talk.
• Show up as an expert. When opportunity presents itself, show up as the professional that you are. Whether you have a speaking engagement, attend a networking event, participate in an open forum, join a group discussion, participate in meetings, you should be prepared to speak the language of your industry with confidence.  If the setting is appropriate and it makes sense, let your level of expertise show in what you contribute to the conversation, how you respond to comments, or what topics you speak about. The depth of your knowledge is also important. What information can you provide that the average person might not know? What can you offer that will enhance someone else’s level of knowledge?

 
People look to experts for the how-to, the tips, the processes, the templates. Motivational quotes are inspiring and very helpful but giving them alone does not show you as an expert.
 
By sharing your knowledge you’ll also build your confidence. Tell me one person that was ever seen as an expert that didn’t believe in themselves and what they were doing. Can you name one? Not likely! With knowledge comes confidence.
 
It’s one thing to talk about what you know, but it’s something else entirely to actually demonstrate it.
 
Be a Great Communicator
 
People have to understand what you can do and why you’re the best one to do it. This means that you have to understand and foresee the questions others may have about your area of business. You also need to be prepared to solve problems and offers solutions based on your expertise. Experts often communicate like consultants.  You have to not only know the right answers or information to give, you have to know the right questions to ask.

• Be proactive. Anticipate the needs of people or problems people might experience. Stay ahead of the game and share information that addresses those needs or problems via blog posts, interviews, webinars, etc.

 

• Communicate to empower. Use your communications skills to teach and empower your coworkers, clients, colleagues, and other audiences. Don’t just talk, ask questions. Communicate in a way that demonstrates a passion for teaching and inspiring others through knowledge. This way, you don’t come off as a “know it all” but rather, a person who is passionate and knowledgeable about what they do.

 
Always Act With Integrity
 
Don’t take credit for things you haven’t done. Name your sources if the information is not yours. Identify the source you got the statistics from or cite the passage or author you might take some information from.  This does not make you less than an expert.  Experts often quote other experts. Remember, we had to do this in high school and college English classes. It’s relevant in business too.
 
There will always be things an expert is not so good at or answers they may not know. No one knows everything, not even a person who is considered an expert. Don’t try to be an expert in areas you are not, yet.  

• Give others credit for a job well done. Wise leaders and the most incredible of experts don’t do everything themselves. They have a talented team around them who have the skills they themselves lack. A great leader and expert will give credit to their team for the work they do to help them do what they do.

 
By following these simple steps you’ll become the person with the answers. People will see you as the expert you are. You will be the source that others call on when it relates to your area of expertise.  What a great way to boost your career or grow your business!!

I have always believed that what’s closest to you has the most profound impact on you.  I still believe that to a certain degree when it comes to certain things.  But, while on vacation in Cancun this year, I realized different.
First let me say, that was the best vacation I have experienced so far.  An all-inclusive resort, days on the beach, time in the pool, special activities, and a birthday celebration with 15 other people was time very well spent.
While on that vacation, I experienced something that never ran across my mind.  Being the business woman that I am, I promote, advertise, and market my business whenever possible, as long as it aligns with my brand.  I wear my own products, like t-shirts, hats, and fragrances.  I use my own accessories, coffee mugs, tote bags, mouse pads, portfolios, etc.  Of course, I took some of my gear on vacation with me so one of the days while on vacation, I was wearing one of my SheBoss-branded t-shirts and sun visors. 

As I left our room and went to grab something to snack on at SPOON, one of my favorite spots at the resort, I was walking and a young lady stopped and said “Hey, I’ve seen that on Instagram”, as she pointed at my t-shirt.  That was totally unexpected.  Talk about brand recognition! I was in Cancun, Mexico and another guest of the resort recognized my brand! Although brand recognition does not always equate to a purchase, it lends to brand development, which is just as important. That made me feel really good and I couldn’t wait to get back to my room to share the experience with my husband and post about it on Facebook.

​ I reflected on it for a little while and came to these conclusions, as it relates to entrepreneurship:

1. There are times when you might get more recognition from afar, rather than in close proximity.
2. Support or recognition does not always come from where we expect it to come from.
3. Even though you might not be where you want to be just yet with your business, you must continue to build your brand and include social media in your marketing mix. Figure out the best strategy and don’t stop. People are really watching, even if they never say a word to you.
4. In order to be effective in marketing your business, you have to cast your net in unfamiliar territory. Don’t insulate yourself within groups and networks you are familiar with only.  You will be doing your business/brand a disservice.

I was given a directive not to be “She-Bossin’” while we were on vacation, because we were on vacation, and my peeps wanted me to relax and enjoy. I did my best to oblige and only snuck one or two posts in to my Facebook community (I got busted too).  When you are passionate, excited and ambitious about something, especially your own, it’s hard to step away from it completely, even while on vacation. If I had not done anything else related to SheBoss Unlimited, I’m glad I represented my brand in another country.  If not, I would have never known exactly how effective my social media strategies are and I would not have had that moment of confirmation…….. and feeling myself.  Whenever I’m traveling (flying) I make it a point to wear one of my shirts.  Every single time, someone compliments it, saying they like the logo and/or they inquire about what “SheBoss” is or stands for.  I love my logo, it’s eye-catching and is a conversation starter.  Shout out to my graphic designer Chenelle for capturing my vision!
My final reflection is…….

You are the most effective representation of your brand so wear it, speak it, live it, promote it and be it! Do this as often as possible, even if it appears to annoy those who are not entrepreneurs and have no idea how hard you have to push your brand in order for it to be successful.  Go hard with no regrets! Promote your brand, even while on vacation, you never know who might recognize it! Entrepreneurs are always “ON”!
 

Have you thought about Retirement? 
 
No. Maybe, Kinda.
 
You have no clue.
 
If so, you are not alone.  
First thing first. Yes, it is definitely all about the money before, during, and after you retire.  Are you saving any money today in your employer offered plan or you own 401(k) as a entrepreneur?
 
The money you save and invest today for retirement has to last for your lifetime.   So the piggy bank will not do.
 
I heard something in the 1990's that still resonates with me today, and it is true. From birth to age 18, we need our parents, age 25-40 we need our good looks, age 40-50 we need a great career, and after age 50, you need cold Cash!!
 
Plain and simple, as we say in the South.  If, can, and when one can retire comes down to two factors, and you did read it right here:  (1) Money and (2) Debt. 
 
You need more money and zero debt.  Do you know your true income?  Do you know your expenses?  Do you know what it costs you to live every month?  Can you still live the same when you retire if your income is less and less frequent? 
  
Retirement planning begins as soon, and as early, and as often as possible.   Gainfully employed, business owner or entrepreneur, you must begin contributing immediately to an investment vehicle: 401(k), or Individual Retirement Account (IRA) (Traditional or Roth).
 
For 2019, each individual can contribute $19,000 to their 401(k) and up to $7,000 in and IRA
 
For business owners, you have options, Profit Sharing, KEOGH, IRA, etc. And you can contribute in 2019 up to $59,000 or 25% of your net earnings to a retirement investment vehicle. 
 
Sounds like a lot of money every month? It is, but if its for you to be secure and comfortable for the rest of your life… Isn’t it worth it?
 
Are you asking how? Here's how:

• Mindset
• Behavior
• Commitment
• Discipline
• Action

  
Want Results?.… Execute these Three Actions:
 
(1) Automatic Withdrawals From Your Gross Pay. Start small with 3% or enough of a percentage to get the maximum matching from your employer. Business owners can do the same from weekly and monthly Revenue.
 
(2) Get Out and Stay Out of Debt.  All of it.  Mortgage, Credit Cards, Auto Loans, Student Loans, Business Loans. When you are free of debt payments you have money to save and invest.
 
(3) When Your Pay or Business Revenue Increases, Do Not Live On It. Increase your contributions until you are contributing the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) maximum annual dollar limit for individuals and business owners.
 
The first step is to take the first step and do something different than what you are doing today to secure your life.  Whether you are in your 30s, 40s or older, get started. 
 
Plan, execute, and never look back. You will be secured and in the driver's seat for the rest of your life.
 
Click and Download Free Retirement Planning Guide for Individuals and Business Owners.
 
https://www.subscribepage.com/retirementconsult
 

You will hear about the importance of mindset on a regular basis. Mindset is extremely important when it comes to being successful at whatever it is you are trying to do. However, mindset is not enough. You have to have the right skill set to be able to successfully do the things you have your mind set on.

Mindset and skill set go hand in hand. So many people aspire to be entrepreneurs and I think that is great! But not everyone has the skills needed to function as an entrepreneur.

Check out this entrepreneur skill set list. This represents only a few of the skills that successful entrepreneurs possess. If you don't have all of them right now, it's ok.  All of these skills can be developed.
 

• Time management skills. I use my time wisely and avoid wasting time on unproductive tasks. I know what matters to my business.
• Delegation skills. I know whom I can trust to complete a task. I am able to relinquish control of certain action items so I can concentrate on the things that will scale my business and increase revenue.
• Sales skills. I know what my customers and potential customers want and need. I know my products and services and can explain their benefits to my customers and how they will solve their problem (s).
• Communication skills. I can present my ideas and vision clearly. I communicate well with my customers and clients which includes effective listening.
• Decision-making skills. I can evaluate a situation and its implications, explore all options, and make the best decision as it relates to the livelihood of my business.
• I can maintain my attention on what needs my attention. I am able to deal with the distractions in my environment.
•  I have the energy and  endurance necessary to be successful. I can persevere physically and emotionally.
• The ability to troubleshoot and overcome obstacles. I know how to figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it. I have the ability to stay calm under pressure and to find solutions.
• The ability to forecast. I can identify future trends  of my industry and the potential opportunities and obstacles for my business.
•  Daily improvement. I review each day, so I can be even more effective tomorrow. I avoid repeating my mistakes and expect the same from my employees. We’re all getting better each day.   My new employees fit my company vision and culture. I hire reliable people that can get along with others.  
• Financial management. I watch my money closely. I use company funds to grow my company. I avoid spending money I don’t need to spend. I am aware of my expenses.
•  I reach out to others in my field. I stay aware of the latest developments. 
•  I know that there will be challenges as I grow my business. My level of determination will help me get through and stay the course.  I will not give up on my business.
•  I stand by the mission of my business and will defend it to the best of my ability, even in the face of scrutiny.  I stand for what I believe in.
• Presence. I possess the attitude, personality, and charisma of a successful businesswoman.  I show up and represent myself as a credible, knowledgeable and confident expert of my business industry.

If you believe you need assistance with sharpening your skills in either of these areas or other professional or career development areas schedule a FREE exploratory call with Jackie Robinson, "The Success-Ability Coach" at www.shebossunlimited.com.

​When you hear about or think about branding, most people think it’s for businesses only.  The reality is, YOU, as an individual, are a brand. In fact, everything about you represents your brand.  That could be a good thing or a bad thing.  In essence, your personal brand is your reputation.  Its what people think about when they see a picture of your or hear your name.  Its what people associate you with.  Its what people remember about you. It’s the story of who you are and what you represent.  Know this, how well does your brand represent you?

WHY IS PERSONAL BRANDING IMPORTANT?
It just is! The way life is set up in our current time, everyone needs to realize that they are a brand and they need to develop it to get the most out of life, and to reach goals.  The more successful you want to be the more important your persona brand is.
For example, recruiters, employers, colleges, boards, event planners, groups, associations are all going to research you and your brand when considering any kind of dealings with you.  This has become the new norm and no one can get away from it. I personally Google people that I am interested in collaborating with or trying to connect with.  It’s pretty much a habit now.  If you are considering or will consider any of these, you need to develop your personal brand:​

• Promotion
• New job with new company
• Speaking engagements
• Collaborating on projects
• Building a stronger sphere of influence
• Securing a mentor or sponsor
• Connecting with people who have similar interests as you (networking)
• Joining an association related to your industry, expertise or interests

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO DEVELOP YOUR PERSONAL BRAND
Developing a personal brand is a process and it will require you to commit some time to start it and maintain it but it is well worth it, IF, you are serious about advancing and growing in your career and meeting personal and professional goals. If you really want to level up and show yourself as a true SheBoss, start your personal branding process by doing or considering these things:

• What are you good at and known for? Develop your brand around a strength of yours (i.e. closing deals, resolving conflict, meticulous work, a particular color, your sense of style, bubbly personality, etc.)
• Be consistent in person and across all social media platforms. Your personal brand and professional brand WILL intertwine, even when you don’t want it to.  Be sure that you are representing yourself on these platforms that is consistent with the way you want others to view you. 
• Build credibility. If you are building your brand around one of your strongest skill sets or your expertise, then people need to see you performing in that area by the content you post on social media, and the way you carry out that function in your daily job or career.
• Create a balance between your personal and professional.  A brand is powerful. Again, it will intersect with all areas of your life.  It’s ok to post a couple of personal things on your business page if you can tie it to your business, message or expertise in some way.  People still want to connect with the human side of your brand. You should also let your personal connections on your personal social media profiles know what’s going on with you in your professional life, like attending a high-profile conference, getting a promotion, or studying for a certification.
• Develop your voice.  Have a key message or a story that is tied to your brand.  For me, my voice is always speaking women’s empowerment in the realm of career and business.  I talk about it with people in person, and through my social media platforms.  This is what people know me for.  Think about what your voice will speak.  Is it diversity & inclusion in the workplace? Or, it could be leadership-focused, training-focused.  Whatever it is that you are passionate about as related to your career, speak it often.
• Create a personal blog website and take advantage of guest writer opportunities. By blogging, you will define and emphasize your interests or expertise.  This blog should be centered around your key brand factor, your story, your interests, and your voice.  The blog becomes a part of your voice and reinforces the rest of what your brand image is made up of.
• Create your own unique style- Wear a signature color, statement pieces of jewelry, fun and interesting socks, rock a jazzy hairstyle, or strut in eye-catching shoes. Your colleagues will always know you for wearing purple, they notice that you always have a nice necklace on with every outfit, and everyone is waiting for you to walk in every day because they know your shoe game is ferocious.

This is a not an all-inclusive list of personal brand-building strategies but they are good tips for getting started with the process. 

If you want to step out of the box and create a personal brand for yourself and don’t want to do it without guidance, schedule a FREE exploratory call with me to determine exactly what you might want assistance with and how I might be able to assist you. Log on to www.shebossunlimited.com to schedule your appointment.

Jackie Robinson is the Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer of SheBoss Unlimited, LLC. She is a success-strategist and certified professional development coach with an emphasis on diversity. Jackie has over 20 years of experience working as an advisor, training facilitator, and learning & development professional. She is also a published author and working on the release of her 2nd book, SheBoss Unleashed: Show Up as a Woman and Lead Like a Boss.

Follow Jackie on her social media platforms:
 
  https://facebook.com/SheBossUnlimited
  

  https://instagram.com/she_boss_ultd
 
 
  https://twitter.com/SheBossU

​Yes, it is true, we wear many hats.  We are believers, wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, co-workers, teachers, doctors, lawyers, judges, authors, speakers, coaches, fashion designers, mentors, etc.  The list is limitless.  But, do you know who you really are? When someone says, “Tell me, who is ___________________?” (fill in the space with your full name).  Do you respond with, “Wow! That's a loaded question!”, then proceed listing the many roles you play?  How many different hats do you include?  Many times, it’s your unconscious narrative. You easily identify yourself with the roles you play or the different hats you wear, but you never stand up and say who you really are.  Will the real YOU, please stand up? 
You are W.O.M.A.N.!! 
Warrior!  Wearing the whole armour of God, you are equipped with everything you need.  You are stronger than you believe.  You have greater powers than you know! You are a warrior.
Overcomer! No matter what life throws at you. No matter the level of difficulty, you stand firm and conquer it!  You are an overcomer.
Masterpiece! God spoke EVERYTHING into existence, but you…He created! You are the crown to man's head.  You are a magnificent masterpiece created in His image!  You are a masterpiece.
Anointed!  You are appointed & positioned to be man's helpmate. Your love, support, wisdom & knowledge puts everything in alignment.  Everything connected to you, everything you touch…prospers! You are anointed.
Nubian! You are a royal priesthood. You are a giver of life.  You build nations.  You are highly intelligent and when man looks upon you, he's stricken with your beauty.  You girl,  rocks & rules!  You are a Nubian queen!
Yes, you play many roles!  Yes, you wear many hats, but recognize who you really are…You are a Proverb 31 W.O.M.A.N.!!
So, I ask you today… Will the Real YOU, please stand up!?
 
Website: www.kjsdstudio.com
Email: kjsdstudio@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kjsdstudio
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kj_strategy_design_studio
Cell: 469.734.4448

You’ve heard the old saying, “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover”.  And while the human mind will forever initially do just that (which is why appearance and your presence should look great), it’s the substance that will determine the ultimate value of your brand.  Now, don’t misunderstand, our worth is determined by God; however, if you’re not committed and dedicated to doing the work, you are not able to inspire, impact, influence & leave a positive imprint on the minds and hearts of those you encounter. 

Too many times, our focus and time is spent on the exterior: a sexy logo, a beautifully designed website, top notched business card, best looking banner, gorgeous social media feeds and even our personal exterior of makeup, attire, shoes & accessories. But, upon closer review, the substance of what is being delivered is not up to par.   Too many times, we are super excited to launch a product or service that the time, research, planning & adequate funds needed are not applied to the process. The product or service would actually be the solution needed to solve a major problem, but because the due diligence and process was seen as a “waste of time” and/or too long, it was rushed or totally eliminated and now the end result doesn’t hold any value.  

Remember, the magic is in the process!  Spend time in your prayer closet to better understand how God wants you to proceed.  Research, research & research. Understand your targeted market’s needs. Understand the market/industry. Develop a marketing strategy. Map it out.  Determine costs. Conduct a beta-test. Complete an analysis. These are just some of the steps and work you should be conducting before launching. Once the “main course” is cooked, you can now begin setting the table.  You now are ready to send out invitations requesting the presence of others to an intimate, well-cooked and scrumptious meal in a brand-tastic atmosphere.
​
KJ is the owner & Master Brand Expert of KJ Strategy Design Studio with over 25 years of experience, with numerous awards, accolades & nominations for her work, including being named as one of the Top 25 Purpose Driven Women to Watch, one of the Top Sales Trainers, awarded & honored at the annual Making History in Heels for her contribution to the community as a woman-owned business, just to name a few.  She is a trainer/speaker, helping faith-based women owned businesses, educational institutes (educators & students) to understand how a strong personal brand breeds a positive culture of diversity, creating exponential results & profit. Book her to speak at your school and/or for a free-30-minute Brand Discovery Chat. 

Website: www.kjsdstudio.com
Email: kjsdstudio@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kjsdstudio
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kj_strategy_design_studio
Cell: 469.734.4448

​

I remember when my daughter was younger, I would come home and tell her Mommy needs an hour for me time. I have always believed in "Me Time" but ask me did I do it consistently? No, I didn't, but now...

As women we have so much to do and so little time to do everything. Have you ever felt like your world was caving in on you? You know that feeling, can't concentrate, not organized, emotional, and so on and so on. This happens when we don't have me time to regroup and get restored. I know you are probably thinking what does she know about my workload or my family, you're right I don't but what I do know is if you don't start allowing me time in your life your career, your family, and your dreams will falter and or fail, it's called life burnout. 

Me time is nothing but making sure you take care of you. You may be asking well how do I take care of myself? It starts with designated a time every day to do whatever relaxes you.  

​Me time is nothing but making sure you take care of you. You may be asking well how do I take care of myself?

1.  Choose a designated day... just for you!
   
2.  Set the time-put it on the calendar. Again, this is just for you!
   
3. Choose what activity you are going to do for your me time. (working out, reading, getting a massage)
   
4. Journal how you felt during your me time.
   
5. No self-guilt for having me time.
   

As I read my journal, I discovered that after having me time, I became a better, stronger woman. Now it’s your turn!

Tonya is a speaker and Henri Award nominated author. Tonya is the CEO and founder of Godsdiva, LLC and The Worth Within Project, her company vision is to teach women about their worth through speaking engagements and workshops. If you would like to book Tonya please visit www.godsdivallc.com.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/tonyamdiva/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/divamyworthwithin/

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