The Challenge of Getting Noticed Among Thousands

Earl Graves Sr., Founder/Chairman of Black Enterprise once said, “In business, true opportunities are scarce, obstacles are many and success demands being prepared for both.” Getting noticed among thousands of people who are going after the same things can be difficult. But, you can make sure that you stand out from the crowd by going above and beyond when an opportunity presents itself.

A perfect example comes to mind. A few years back I attended an African-American business development and networking event hosted by Black Enterprise. Over 1,400 African-American entrepreneurs and professionals were gathered. One attendee, James Polk of Veterans Computer and Electronic Services, decided to go above and beyond to take advantage of an opportunity. By chance, he met two of the associate producers of the Black Enterprise Report, a syndicated TV series that focuses on African-American financial and personal empowerment. When he asked for their business cards, they had run out. He quickly seized the opportunity to make a great impression and help someone in need. Through his connections, he was able to get business cards printed and delivered to them by the next day of the conference. His quick thinking and sincere gesture landed him an interview on the next taping of the show.

Going above and beyond is a key ingredient to successfully getting noticed in a highly competitive environment. Opportunities like this are not as scarce as you might think. If you look at your LinkedIn network for example, you’re sure to find someone that you could genuinely help by going above and beyond what others are willing to do. Those associate producers probably met hundreds of business owners during that event, but James was the one who got noticed.

This week I am focusing on #theartofselfpromotion on my blog, but getting noticed by going above and beyond transforms words into actions. I challenge you to “get noticed” and seize opportunities to help someone in your network this week. Subscribe to my email newsletter to learn more about getting noticed and other personal branding strategies.

Tarsha Polk, The Marketing Lady, is a Dallas-based Small Business Consultant, International Speaker, Marketing Strategist and Author. You can connect with Tarsha on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter,  Email or at her office Mon-Fri from 10am-5pm at 972-987-0565.