Win Copies of Andy Beal’s Book “Radically Transparent”!
By tsufit on Jan 9, 2009 in Authenticiy, Blogging, Books, Celebrity, Management, Marketing, Top Marketing Bloggers, Uncategorized, viral marketing
We’re celebrating Top Marketing Bloggers this year at Step Into The Spotlight! and what better way to celebrate than a book giveaway! We’re giving away 3 copies of Top Blogger Andy Beal’s acclaimed book, Radically Transparent.
All you have to do for a chance to win, is Leave a Comment about Andy’s Guest Post below or how you’re going to step into the spotlight in 2009. Deadline: Thurs Jan 15, 2009 5pm EST.
Why it Helps to Be Naked When Stepping Into the Spotlight!
You’ve got to love the little kid that was brave enough to point out that the emperor’s new clothes were, in fact, his birthday suit. If the child were around today, he wouldn’t have just shouted out from a crowded street, he would have posted it to his blog, uploaded photos to Flickr, and messaged all of his friends on Facebook!
What you can learn from the emperor is that when you step into the modern-day spotlight, your life will be under the close scrutiny of those that participate in social media. They’ll watch your every move, evaluate your performance, and decide if your actions live up to the words that so easily trip off your tongue. Rather than trying to cover up your flaws–or your past transgressions–my advice is to simply reveal all!
In Radically Transparent, Dr Strauss and I explain why in the internet age, the best advice is to be open and honest with those that have a stake in your reputation. Your name is going to be discussed anyway, so you may as well join the conversation, right?
With that in mind, here are a few things to consider when stepping into the spotlight:
• Be found! Make sure you can be found by those that might have something to say about your reputation. Maybe you need a daily blog, or perhaps just a static web site. The key is to provide an “official” resource for who you are, and what you do. In the absence of anything created by you, the void will be filled by what others have to say.
• Always be on! While you may not have to face the paparazzi 24/7, you shouldn’t assume you can let your guard down. That drunken photo you posted to your MySpace profile, could cost you your job. The foul language you used in your Twitter-tirade could be picked up by the local newspaper.
• Listen twice as often as you speak! This is similar to “measure twice, and pour once.” When you’re in the spotlight, you should listen for conversations that involve you. While Britney Spears can afford the luxury of ignoring gossip, you’re not so lucky. What might start as a whispered rumor can quickly turn into an urban legend, if you don’t take action to dismiss it. Listen often and, when you see the same topic being repeated, consider whether it might hurt your reputation–if so, take action!
Remember, the spotlight often shines bright enough to illuminate even the darkest shadows in our lives. The more you step into it, the more you’ll be held accountable. Being Radically Transparent doesn’t mean taking a walk down the red carpet naked, but instead means being honest, authentic, and sincere in everything you do.
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Guest Blogger, Andy Beal, is an internationally-renowned consultant, author, and speaker specializing in online reputation management and internet marketing. His current projects include his new book, Radically Transparent: Monitoring & Managing Reputations Online, his blog Marketing Pilgrim, & Trackur’s social media monitoring tools.
I am going to step into the spotlight in 2009 with the publication of my book, Talk Radio Wants You – An Intimate Guide to 700 Shows and How to Get Invited (McFarland & Co.).
The book is going to put me and the contributors on the map.
Remember – you read it here!!
Fran
Francine Silverman | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
It sounds like a few of these techniques are pre-emptive, and others are reactive.
So, Andy is encouraging a 2-prong strategy.
For example, setting up an official website / blog, and revealing/explaining controversial facts, could be considered a “pre-emptive strike” before others start to criticize.
On the other hand, tracking things said about you so you can respond, is the reactive strategy.
I can see that both are important.
I think the one thing you would want to be careful about – and I would think Andy would agree on this – is that you want to explain / diffuse any criticism, but you should not “attack the attacker”.
I think that would be worse than not responding .
So, even if the person being critical is hypocritical (i.e. slamming you for something they have also done), you are better off not focusing on that. Instead, just focus on what you did and can control.
Praveen | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
I couldn’t agree more with you Andy. Blogging, and especially video blogging, is the online marketing tool of the future. What I love about blogging is that it is the closest thing you can get to live networking and, like networking, authenticity is everything. I would be very interested in reading Andy’s book and, even if we don’t win a copy, I’ll be sure to check it out at my local bookstore!
Jasper Blake | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
andy is a great professional, i’ve learned with her help. Thanks andy
Daniel Demin | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
In 2009 I’ll be in the spotlight in several ways:
I’ve launched a “do good” organization, with the help of a few good friends, which we’re taking around the world (www.timetorethink.com), to help people who have recently lost their job, or looking at career change, or even become entrepreneurs!
We are helping people develop positive Attitude, uncover & define their personal brand, and set up an Action plan to make the most of their new direction!
This new venture, and all activities are going to be podcasted, written about, and videotaped. We’ve aligned ourselves with several charities, and to get the best market penetration, we hired PR professionals to help us expose ourselves to as many people as possible, with offline press, and TV/Radio, as well as having a significant web presence.
Thanks for all your advice.
Happy and Glamorous New Year!
Raz
Raz Chorev | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
I am going to step into the spotlight in 2009 by attending every networking function that is organized by the Whitby Chamber of Commerce and the Markham Board of Trade and composing and delivering a captivating elevator speech that is going to blow my prospects and turn me into a star and money magnet.
Robert Bafaro
robert bafaro | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
In 2009 i will make all my dreams come true.. why because i read “step into the spotlight” in the bath, under the grey sky, in london waiting for the tube, loudly in front of my friend !yes it make me certain then its all true if you think you can shine you will and more you beleive it and more it will happen !! now like all my species we all should wear no clothes (as Andy trick us with his brown suit )and throught ourself into the wood the jungle of life revealing herself to the depth of ourself and to other like we never did in 2008 !! breathe in and out life begins and curtain up !!!! phew !!Stephanie Methven
Stephanie Methven | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
I need to be a more committed blogger – while I do have a website, I felt that the blog would get my personality across more. I understand its importance, just need to allocate a set amount of time aside, so that it’s regularly updated and provide information that people want to come back to read more.
CB | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
Thanks Tsufit for the opportunity to write a guest post and give away copies of my book.
I wish everyone the best of luck with their “spotlight” efforts!
Andy Beal | Jan 9, 2009 | Reply
Hi Andy and Tsufit,
Thanks for the blog! Great tips. I’ll see if I can extract that drunken pic today! ;o)
I’d love an opportunity to win your book Andy, soooo here’s how I’m stepping into the spotlight in 2009.
I’ve set up a Social Enterprise….The M.A.D. (Make a Difference) Project. Our aim is to connect people who want to make a positive difference in the world with those who already are. It’s about people helping people – when are where they need it most.
For the past year I’ve been working ‘behind the scenes’and now it’s time to step into the spotlight and become ‘The M.A.D. Woman!!’
I’ve been gaining great insights from Tsufit’s writings and Andy, your book would be an invaluable tool on my journey to making the world a better place.
Thanks for all your insights…oh and do come and visit http://www.themadproject.com. It’s still being developed, so there’ll be lots more bells and whistles to come.
Blessings for 2009,
)
Arcadia Love
Arcadia Love | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
Keeping connected is a so important to everyone’s business and learning how to accomplish that is a growing learning process, from e-mails to facebook to Blackberry and websites. Whew at 57 the spotlight is growing!
Loren Smith | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
“honest, authentic, and sincere” – perfect mantra for life. Thanks.
Evelyn Budd | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
Assuming I “get it,” I submit that confidence, blogging and followup are all extremely important. However, without the basic product/commodity any effort cannot be as effective. Therefore, this year my singing and songs will morph from good to exceptional.
Thanks, Al Jacquez
Al Jacquez | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
Great basic advice for those if us new to the idea of putting oneself out there in the spotlight.
Wade Munson | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
I totally agree that we need to be transparent and real! I am a “what you see is what you get” kind of woman, and luckily, that works well for me as a writer. It’s the old “do unto others” thing- treat people well and it will all come back to you- in business and in personal life!
By just being me on Twitter, my blog and Facebook, peeps get to know who they are working with when they hire me!
Teresa Hall | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
The spotlight is like anything else, a tool that can fulfill our dreams or create our worst nightmare. Just like with anything else, knowledge is power and by understanding the game and the rules, Andy Beal has given whoever wants to share the glow or the glare of said light, a winning edge. To take responsibility for one’s actions is to take back one’s power, but to lie is to give others the power to destroy you.
It takes a lot of work to become famous,but one act of bad faith to become infamous.
Thanks Andy for the head’s up..frankie
Well done..Frankie
unstoppable frankie picasso | Jan 10, 2009 | Reply
Web2.0 was “what I don’t know about what I don’t know” until few weeks ago. Only lately I have started to realize what’s the future (present?) is going to look like in marketing. So I put myself into a massive learning gear, and I’m fascinated by what I learn. So, stepping into the spotlight for me this year, is to master the social media secrets and teach it, as well! Thanks Andy. Thanks Tzufit. Have a fabulous 2009!
Michal Amon | Jan 11, 2009 | Reply
I’m planning on making 2009 an exciting year by stepping further into the spotlight. How? With increased activity on social networking sites as well as exposure in the form of keynotes, seminars, and eventually a new book that will encourage organizations to develop a questioning culture. What questions did you ask today?
Ida Shessel, the Questionologist | Jan 11, 2009 | Reply
I’d agree wit Andy here. Looking over my relationships with various companies, I tend to do business with companies that I feel I have a connection – those that act like humans. Those that use their policies and corporate speak to hide will have a tough time surviving.
Bill Gammell | Jan 12, 2009 | Reply
I agree that being active online is an important part of any business. That’s why HEART Business Journal for Women® offers a dynamic website to complement the publication as well as a subscriber-only Network forum where members can start discussions, post information, network with other professionals and more! We are constantly seeking feedback so we can improve our product and deliver what our readers are looking for. http://www.heartbusinessjournal.com.
Shauna Cade | Jan 13, 2009 | Reply
Hi Tsufit and Andy,
Tsufit, I love the idea that business is show business in the literal sense! Such an obvious
observation too. I have already benefited in my own writing projects by writing clear and humorous statements-the 30 second mercial- about what I am trying to do in my writing.
Andy, there is no doubt in my mind that whatever we are selling, the public first has to see us as being honest,sincere and unabashedly authentic. Thank you both.
Joan
joan chisholm | Jan 13, 2009 | Reply
HI Andy-
Well another culture shock for this 67 years old. Your article,and I believe your book, are definitely going to serve as Radically Reinforcement to my approach to making my goals a reality. Tsufit actually helped me put a timid toe into the spotlight. What happened? A whole new world of self discovery and a marked increase in business by actually talking about what I do and offering to speak at luncheons, club meetings,etc, I not only found audiences willing to listen but I found me willing to speak. Your book Radically Transparent is just what I needed to find at this time in my business life. Since I have stopped pretending I have all the answers and stopped trying to deliver the “answers’ in what I was told was the proper seminar speak- my booking s have steadily been on the rise. I speak from the heart, allowed myself to be myself, dress in my comfortable clothing and tell it like it is. We teach at Head Start Seminars, NAEYC conferences on topics such as 3 D Storytelling and Children’s Nutrition, Goal Setting, etc. I walk among my audience, I am slowly sharing more of me and finding to audiences are more than willing to participate in programs if you can just let them in. Speaking with and not to is doing wonders. I can’t wait to get a hold of Radically Transparent to carry with me at all times. Tsufit and you have given validation to the thought that there is no fool like to fool who believes her/she is fooling their audience. I for one need validation at times and your wonderful book provides that and so much more. Every page is a part of the true path to success. If you can’t be comfortable in your own skin who will be comfortable around you? I”m Stepping into the Spotlight and you’re teaching me that Transparency is a good-no-great attitude.
Carol Shaver | Jan 13, 2009 | Reply
I am the owner of ATM Consulting, a computer service company. It has happened a few times that someone has approached me but doesn’t have enough moeny to get their computer fixed.
While attending the Millionaire Mind Intensive in November, I realized I need to start another company, that will have co-op students working and people on limited means can get their computer fixed and they can pay whatever they can afford. I am passionate about computers and don’t want lack of money to be a barrier to someone having their computer work properly.
I am really excited about this, and I’m looking forward to this being operational before the end of 2009!
A.J. - The Chief Computer Geek | Jan 13, 2009 | Reply
Wooow! Stepping Into the Spotlight sounds scary and exciting all at the same time.I ned to commit to thinking big, acting on a bigger stage, moving into a different element of audience expectation. Moving into a bigger pond means giving up lots of comfortable habits.Being honest is part of me. Being a star isn’t-yet.What a responsibility! I will organize more efficiently,rehearse and rewrite over and over, begin to blog ,ask for help and keep hold of my primary purpose in speaking.
Pauline Duncan-Thrasher | Jan 14, 2009 | Reply
I’m going to step into the spotlight this year by living the role of professional rebel and making it clear that the reason I produce all this stuff about how to run businesses, promote yourself on line etc is because I want YOU dear reader to create a vehicle for yourself able to surf the waves of life.
Just remember
Disobedience is a core competency.
Read more at
http://blog.howtodobusiness.com/2007/07/11/is-disobedience-a-core-competency/
Alan Rae | Jan 15, 2009 | Reply
Thanks for all the great comments. I especially love the closing words of our last comment “Disobedience is a core competancy.”
The following 3 commenters will be receiving copies of Andy Beal’s acclaimed book, Radically Transparent:
1. Carol Shaver
2. Alan Rae
3. Jasper Blake
To everyone else, do enter your name and email in the opt-in box on the right of the home page and also sign up for the RSS feed, ’cause we’ll be having more business book giveaways, guest bloggers, book reviews –2009 is going to be a great year for YOU to step into the spotlight!
Ciao,
Tsufit
Author, Step Into The Spotlight!
tsufit | Jan 16, 2009 | Reply