Perception, visibility, and influence are three essential components of success.
I have this saying “If you sell great bread, and nobody knows you. You will sell nothing.”
The three concepts are closely intertwined. It is often referred to as the PVI model. I have had this model in the back of my head for many years. And importantly, I see this model on a personal level. You should also take notice, it is timeless. Let me explain.
In today’s digital world, these three components can determine an individual’s success, reputation, and even future career. Serious words, but true.
When it comes to anything from personal relationships to business, having a strong perception, visibility, and influence can make all the difference in the world.
Perception…
Perception is how people view you, your brand, or your business. It’s the way you’re seen by the public and how you’re perceived in a particular industry. It’s the overall impression you make on others, and it’s important to maintain a good reputation to be successful.
So whether it's in a professional or personal setting, the way you come across to others can have a significant impact on how successful you are.
The way you dress, and your appearance are of course important. I will stress, this is not a matter of beauty (ok, I know from myself). But first impressions do matter. And it is important to make a habit of this. I have 15 white shirts, it is not difficult. I have 5 pairs of great jeans, but If I go to a meeting - I will wear a suit.
All this is not a surprise for you, but find a way that suits your customers, and stick to it. Always. Discipline in dress is a very strong signal. I know from experience.
A warning:: a great suit will not save you if you talk garbage.
Visibility…
Visibility is also key. Being visible in the right places and at the right times can make all the difference in the world.
Visibility is the ability to be seen. It’s the extent to which people know who you are and what you stand for.
It’s essential to have a presence online to be noticed. That presence could be in the form of a website, social media platforms, or even press releases.
This can also be accomplished through networking, leveraging your connections, and attending important events.
Nice words, right? Easier said than done.
I will let you in on a secret; I am an introverted person. I still don't find it easy to go to a person, whom I don't know, and say “Hey, I am Allan, great event - what do you think…” or something like that. But I forced myself over the years to be more open to conversation. I became a president of a Junior Chamber Club, and later a president of a Rotary Club, and it forced me to engage more in conversation. And it did give me visibility.
Be visible on social media, especially on LinkedIn. Make a weekly post - or at least repost something. Please do not spend 3 hours a day doing this. But they (customers, headhunters, connections ) will “check you out.”
Make a plan for your visibility, and stick to it, like relevant networking and updating social media.
A warning: engaging in networks with a sole focus on “money” does not work. Building relationships both personally and professionally takes time, and a sole focus on “buy my product” does not work. Please note this.
Influence…
Finally, influence is another crucial factor. Being influential can be incredibly beneficial. It can help you land new opportunities, increase your reputation, and create connections. It's important to develop relationships with influential people to make an impact.
Again great words, but how do we do this?
Make a plan! Where will you meet people whom you want to buy your product or service? And how can I create influence?
My take is this….You create influence by people listening to you.
But always remember that people are intelligent ( you may occasionally think they are not, but they are. They just look through different windows than you).
Now, what is it you want? Answer that question. And ask “how can I motivate the target group to listen to me?” Again easier said than done, but you have knowledge of interest. We all have. Don't be afraid to give it away. Become a known specialist in a specific “area.” That is the kickoff to influence. Create a blog and a newsletter! You can do that.
Overall, perception, visibility, and influence are three important aspects of success.
It's important to be mindful of how you come across to others, be visible in the right places, and develop relationships with the right people to gain an edge.
Final warning: stay loyal to yourself. I have often seen people trying to become something different. Like they are not good enough, and need to change. Please, forget that, it is easy to spot. You are ok, we all have different roads.
Good luck and always have PVI in mind on a personal level .
Written by: Allan Loumann Lissau MBA, Communications adviser & Recruiter, Facebook specialist, Founder & CEO / Social Image
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