Brand building with Dee Blick
Regular readers of PMF will recognise the name Dee Blick. A marketer, author and columnist of the magazine itself, here she reveals the name and topics of her latest book – which might include some tips useful for your business and brand.
Q. Dee, it’s your first marketing book in 10 years – what inspired you to write it?
A. I’ve been a marketer for 41 years, specialising in supporting small businesses, including hundreds of motor factors! I’ve masses of experience in marketing and branding on a shoestring budget. It was time to share my blueprint for success, given I am renowned for demystifying marketing and making it straightforward for the busy business owner.
Branding is a subject that causes confusion, with many people thinking it’s about having a logo and a website. These are undeniably important, but effective branding – personal and business – drives positive change and, crucially, sales through many channels. My book – You’re the Best! – takes the reader on a step-bystep journey, showing them how to harness the power of their personal brand and business brand. No theory, fluff or filler!
An extract from ‘You’re The Best!’
“In a world where artificial intelligence is unrelenting, having a magnetic and authentic personal brand has never been more important. It helps you stand out for the right reasons: as an exceptional, talented and capable individual who people gravitate towards. A person they can admire, work with and recommend with ease.
“Building your personal brand and your business brand should happen simultaneously, in harmony. As a person moves from you and into your business, they should experience the same positive feelings. There should be no disconnect; instead, there should be one seamless flow. Commit to the dual cause; an authentic and magnetic personal brand plus an authentic and magnetic business brand, and you will bring many people into your circle. Customers, influencers, introducers, journalists, advocates and more. This has certainly been my story and that of the many clients I have worked with, from all sectors.
“Why are they making a beeline for you, then your business? You’ve demonstrated through many channels that you’re a credible and trustworthy pair of hands. People know they can count on you to deliver to the highest standards, consistently. Moreover, they don’t want to miss out by not connecting with you. You have intrigued them. Because of what a person has read about you or heard about you, they are drawn to you, confident you meet their needs. Don’t be surprised that some people are not only primed and prepared, but they’re also excited at the prospect of collaborating with you. With a few brush strokes, you’ve moved a prospect swiftly along the road to buying from you. Some will go on to become raving fans.”
Q. What will readers find in your book?
A. In the first part of the book, I share my story and how I’ve built my brand from an ordinary start. I then show readers why authenticity is the ace up their sleeve, how they can overcome imposter syndrome and fear of failure, and how they can create a compelling personal brand plan that aligns with their ambitions and resources.
The second part of the book focuses on the magnetic part of personal brand building, with chapters on how to secure PR, build profile on social media, speak in public – even write a book! I also share many templates readers can lift and use, for immediate beneficial effect. My message is that you’re more than good enough, but if you want to drive sales through cultivating a remarkable reputation, you must step out of your comfort zone and become visible.
Q. Why is it important for motor factors to build a powerful personal brand?
A. Every motor factor would agree that securing new business and repeat business is important. If you impress people with your values, ethics and how you treat others, they’re more likely to recommend your business and to use you.
With AI we’re now seeing the cult of ‘cut and paste’, with some motor factors sacrificing their authentic voice for what they find on AI. It’s easier to extract text than it is to spend time building an authentic online presence, for example, but this sloppiness shows – how can a potential customer or introducer form a great impression about you and your business if what you’re sharing is the same as a competitor, because you’ve both leaned on AI shortcuts? With so much competition, you cannot rely solely on the law of attraction. My book takes the reader on a journey, breaking down the simple steps they can take to become a person of influence, with a business worth looking at.
You’re the Best! is out on 25 November and will be available on Amazon in paperback and ebook. It will also be available in bookstores.
