Self-Promotion: One Do and One Don't

Here are two things to keep in mind as you promote your talents:

DO Specialize -- You Can't Be All Things to All People

When you think of Stephen King, what image comes to mind? Unless you've been living in a cave, you think of a prolific writer who creates novels filled with terror and suspense. But what if Mr. King also put out books on gardening, cooking and personal finance? How successful would he be then?

Surely, King could write such books if he put his mind to it. So why doesn't he? Because he has a niche that people clearly identify him with. Therefore, he succeeds on a much higher level by specializing instead of trying to please everyone. Learn from this lesson.

Have a clear idea of how you best serve your fans with your creative talents. Then focus, focus, focus ... while avoiding the temptation to spread yourself too thin.

DON'T Write Like You're Constipated

Even though I should be used to it by now, it still astounds me when I read letters that contain phrases such as "per our conversation on the 14th" or "in reference to the aforementioned item." Who are these people trying to impress? Their college English professor?

One thing's for sure: They certainly aren't making an impact with customers. The same goes for dry terms that creep into countless brochures and other sales materials. Stop trying to sound so official with your prose, and start writing like you talk!

Instead of writing "Our customers' satisfaction level is at the forefront of our service commitment," why not just write, "Your satisfaction is my top priority -- I guarantee it!"

If you wouldn't say it that way to a customer's face, don't write it that way in your sales literature.

These two tips are adapted from "Unleash the Artist Within." Keep them in mind as you find your rightful place in the creative world.