T A V A S A

The following tips are part of an interview that I did with Ramon Thomas, an online enterpreneur in 2007.

I think the advice is very relevant for TAVASA members, especially those who are still learning strategies on how to promote their services.

DS: What are the three self-promotion tips you’d like to give authors and small business owners?

RT: Find your niche and narrow your focus. When you narrow your focus you operate in a place where you can claim leadership. This positions you as an expert.

2) Share your expertise by contributing to your industry's online communities through LinkedIn, MySpace and other online forums.

3) Find your unique ability.

Take time out to do some personality tests like Meyers-Briggs, which will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses.

Study your personality type.

Focus on improving your strengths and delegating your weaknesses (to people for whom it's a strength).

DS: Anything else you’d like to add about self-promotion?

RT: Study your role models. Try to meet them and ask them questions. At the very least you can email them.

Never shy away from promoting yourself. You must first believe in the product you are selling, which is YOU.