Tell Me More...

Those three little words are the foundation of Web 2.0, and the centerpiece of effective branding strategy.

If you are attempting to create an online brand, or even a personal brand, you have to understand the concept of "Tell Me More..."

Think about the tools you use to tell your story: your website, your twitter account, your company collateral, or even your resume. The ideal reaction to any of these items is, of course, "I'll buy it/you/the service!" But before customers reach that decision point, they often want you to "Tell Me More.."

It's not possible to convey a complete branding message in 140 characters on twitter. The whole point of twitter is "Tell Me More..." No matter what the message, interest is the goal. Interest leads to action, and interested clients are the best kind. A website can be much more detailed, and provide brand messages, videos, blogs, etc. But, how do you get someone to your website? First, you have to create an interesting message that makes a potential customer say, "Tell Me More..." Here's a recent example - watch this video, and see what comes to mind for a "tell me more" moment:



Sophisticated storytellers think about more than just their tale; they consider the audience's reaction. Creating an online brand IS the modern equivalent of storytelling. I agree with Annette Simmons: Whoever Tells the Best Story, Wins). As you present your value proposition, think about what you would like your listener/reader/customer to do or say. Be ready for what comes next, when they say, "Tell Me More..."

For more information, visit http://westfallonline.com

Making Money for Millennials

The new rules for the new economy:

1. Get MBA

2. Get interviews

3. Get to work

For Millennials, it's not enough to have a great education. In the workplace, what you've learned is only as meaningful as your ability to apply it. For top-tier MBA programs, and undergraduate business schools, educators are learning that it takes more than just great classroom instruction to make a difference. If schools want to improve their rankings, and students want to improve their chances of getting a job, there's a need for "what they don't teach you in business school."

Every prestigious institution invites C-level executives to come in and speak. While this perspective is important, it's not especially meaningful. Think about it: If you are a twentysomething Gen Y jobseeker, how important is it to hear from a 60 year old millionaire about how they missed their bonus last year, or laid off 4,500 employees? Don't get me wrong; CEOs have a lot to offer and a lot to say. But, what they have to say won't help you to negotiate your salary, or get a promotion, or find out how things actually work in the day-to-day world of the companies they manage.

For Millennials, the need for firsthand knowledge of the workplace has never been more acute. Case studies, tests, and learning are only as important as the ability to apply that knowledge. Keep listening to executives and guest speakers, they can teach you a lot...but, if you don't really care that their diamond shoes are too tight, or where they park the jet, maybe it's time for a fresh perspective.

The video above is currently entered in Jeffrey Hayzlett's "New 118" - a contest for the best elevator pitch for the new economy. Please follow the link below (through February 6th) to VOTE: http://bit.ly/e5BYI4

Your vote will help to reach more college students on more college campuses, with a message that can make a difference!

What They Don't Teach You in Business School

College students today are faced with a dilemma: leaving school with more than just student loans. Finding a job is tough for Millennials, even from the best and most prestigious colleges.

Top MBA programs are looking for ways to help students understand how to apply the knowledge that comes from great teaching. There's a difference between "knowing things" and "knowing how to get things done".

When I was in school, I desperately wanted to know what they didn't teach in the classroom - I wanted to understand how things work, at work. I needed to learn how to put knowledge into action.



The Business of Selling YOU is a seminar that helps college students and MBA students to understand:

1. How to create and deliver a unique value proposition, in email and in person
2. What it takes, to create a powerful network
3. How MBA students can differentiate their experience and education, and create the job of their dreams

In the current economic climate, students need every possible advantage. Academic success and advanced degrees are not enough anymore; you have to understand how to 'sell' yourself, no matter what career path you choose.