Running late for my appointment, I flew into the local barber shop for a haircut. Not noticing the typical Visa/MC sign in the window, I quickly apologized—telling the barber that I’d have to come back once I’d gone to an ATM machine.

Without hesitation, Dell says, “Sit Down, Arrick. We’re all friends here.”

I did as I was told, sat down and proceeded to receive the perfect haircut. Once finished, I made my way to the closest ATM and settled up. Walking home, I couldn’t help but think about how he could have handled this differently.

We’ve all encountered that person who is just excited to say something negative. This barber was different. He didn’t worry about the money, he took the pressure off of me as if it didn’t even matter. He turned a customer into a friend and literally made me look forward to my haircuts now as a positive event—not a necessary errand.

Dell knew that it wasn’t about the $10. It was about putting a smile on a customers face. That’s what keeps us coming back. That’s what makes us tell stories. That’s how word of mouth marketing must begin, with a good positive experience that inspires someone to tell others.

-Arrick
arrick@spinweb.net

While using Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or any of the other social media channels, it is important to think about your brand image and how it is perceived by others. For some reason, many fail to apply the same standards online as they would in a face-to-face setting. This can be a slippery slope towards leaving a negative impression, but there is a quick fix if you set your standards appropriately. Here are 3 tips to solidifying your brand image through social networking.

Appropriate Use of Imagery
There are many opportunities to use images within your social network. Oftentimes, this is the first thing people encounter while interacting with you online. Use a consistent profile picture (avatar) for all of your social networks. Don’t use that snapshot from 5 years ago. Invest in yourself by getting a professional portrait taken. If you have a team, have them all taken in the same style, by the same photographer, at the same time. Tools such as Facebook and Flicker can provide you the ability to share photos. Unless your business is goofy (like a clown or comedian), your pictures shouldn’t be. Always ask yourself, “Is this how want everyone to remember me?” Images of corporate events, team members or even products might be more appropriate.

Consistent Communications
Take a moment to re-read your content every once in a while. With certain tools like blogs and Twitter, you build a tone with each post. Read them out-loud to yourself in consecutive order. Do you sound like an authority in your industry or are you constantly complaining about things? It’s okay to be personable and real with your approach so long as it is in alignment with how you wish to be perceived. You should also find a routine that is realistic so people know what to expect from you. If you jump in once a month and blast everyone, it will feel like spam, but with a steady stream of touches, you will stay top of mind with those in your network.

Friends, Groups & Fan Pages
Social media allows for the creation of groups, friends, followers and fan pages. This organizes your connections and provides many easy ways to communicate with them simultaneously. If you create a group or fan page for your company or organization, be sure to brand it with your logo and fill the profile with pertinent information. Begin by inviting your employees and constituents and allow controlled growth from there. Remember that there is nothing wrong with being selective about your network. Don’t add friends just to add them. Add people who provide value to you or your group.

Spend some time reviewing your online presence and consider changes that will move you closer to your ultimate brand representation. This is a tremendous opportunity to share your brand with the world, but it may also open risks. Being mindful, consistent and selective, will leave the right impression on your audience every single time thus building a stronger brand.

{This article was written for the Shift+Refresh newletter, published every 2 weeks on topics of productivity, technology and design. If you like what you’ve read, subscribe here.}

Author: Arrick Garringer

Arrick Garringer is a Media Consultant at SpinWeb. background includes brand development, graphic design and creative consulting. In his spare time, Arrick enjoys his family, playing music and really strong coffee. Contact Arrick at arrick@spinweb.net or 317.324.1100.

I’ll be writing words about topics that are important to me. I expect this to center around interests such as:

• Graphic Design
• Business & Marketing
• Sales & Motivation
• Photography
• Art & Music
• The Environment
• Family Fun

I hope you enjoy and look forward to your comments!

-Arrick