Yes, This is About You

I'm somewhat burnt out on books and tests that "define" your personality or best career paths.

Are you?

Having read and taken numerous tests over the years, from Meyers-Briggs (outmoded) to Sally Hoghead's "How the World Sees You" to less mainstream approaches such as numerological studies based on birth name, date, time, and place to one's astrology (western or sidereal), I know myself well enough to say no from such things politely.

When you're first entering the market, these tools can be helpful if you are

• a student not yet confident about your career path
• curious about how others see and interpret you
• learning about your behavioral patterns
• are confused about potential directions to choose from
• looking to apply your innate gifts in the workplace

Recently, while networking, I came across a man who made a convincing case for taking a test to increase sales by getting your customers to say yes. Playing the contrarian, I questioned, nay, grilled him as to why I should waste my time to get answers I already have. He said it only takes 5 minutes, and the psychological profile will reveal priceless marketing solutions, leaving no doubt about how I should sell my services. Most SMEs have had their share of challenges since COVID-19, myself included, so I committed.

What I found fascinating was the emotional lens. Hoghead's 49 personality types are based on 7 ways of communicating. I'm a "Rockstar" who speaks with Passion, and that translates into creating warm emotional connections. The Rockstar is bold, artistic, and unorthodox as they change the game with creativity. But what does that mean as an approach to clients and their interactions with my brand?

One of the reasons I had stopped subscribing to such tests or listening to sales gurus who expound the complex methodology of selling, selling, selling, or getting 100 leads in a week is based on how I connect with others. I build relationships slowly yet steadily. Sometimes, lightning-speed contracts flow in because of timing and introductions or kismet.

About a year ago, I took a course on FB marketing to the "right" groups. The 30-part course with an instructor was helpful to a limited point. That point became apparent a little more than halfway through the lesson plan. People do not buy my services or products based on posts, reposts, or comments on other people's posts. They work with me because of me, which takes getting to know me personally, not just digitally, through comment sections. The time it took me to instruct my dedicated team and for them to complete the steps needed to be commensurate with the results. Work smarter, not harder! So, I ditched that approach.

Circling back to now, I recognize that when someone is fascinated, they are relaxed. They listen intently and are focused. When I am in my essence, I enthusiastically engage my listeners with subjects they relate to to build a valued connection. I also recognize the power of transformation and how my contribution to the lives of others has accomplished that.

When I finished the test https://admanity.com/yes-test/, I was blown away by its granular accuracy on the emotional and affective levels.

Here are some of the takeaways.

1. My brand is a Community Brand - a guardian of comfort who provides my clients unity, inclusion, like-mindedness, comfort, safety, and group belonging.
2. My brand is a Rainmaker - we change the status quo, create improvement, and help others realize their talents and goals, changing their perspective at the finish line.
3. My brand does what's Right - altruistic capitalism or conscious capitalism at its best, leading to devoted customers.
4. My customers look to my brand to Change them or their brand - they see our unique skills to make change easier.

In an ideal world, you embody your brand. There is no disconnect between who you are and how you do business. Some examples of thought leaders whose philosophy is/was the living embodiment of their brand include Elon Musk, David Bowie, MLK Jr., and Armand Hammer.

I'm glad I took the small leap of faith for five minutes. It shed light that I was gratefully willing to bask in.