Home > Blogs > Member Blogs > Jen Creer's Blog > Just being myself

Member Blogs

Write a blog post

Just being myself

Posted 18th October 2007 by Jen Creer, tagged networking, marketing, business, conference, professional, clients, appearances, contacts, presentations

5 comments  |  Leave a comment  |  Report

When I first started freelancing/consulting full time, I went to a conference in New Orleans, and I went on the fly. I had very little time to make the plane ticket, sign up, and go. So, I just had business cards with me, and no professional wardrobe, no done nails, no makeup, no tweezed eyebrows.

I left that conference with new clients. 

A few years ago, I gave a workshop at the same conference in a black turtleneck and black pants, hair in a pony tail. I got enough work for a year. 

Last year, I had a sassy new haircut, perfectly manicured French tips, waxed brows, pedicure, professional new wardrobe, and a buttload of professionally done marketing materials and an exhibition table.

I didn't really get any new clients.

This year, I didn't send out any postcards advertising my workshop. I didn't get my hair freshly colored; my nails are just nails and not freshly manicured or pedicured. I reserved an exhibit table, but haven't paid for it yet, so maybe I should check today to see if I still have it...

Based on past years, this should be the best conference ever. 

 





5 comments so far...

  • Love it!

    Flag as inappropriate Posted by Mandy Nelson - Dandysound on 18th October 2007

  • I'm curious to see how your theory will play out too - hopefully, exactly as you envision! Good luck at the conference!

    Flag as inappropriate Posted by Florinda Pendley Vasquez on 18th October 2007

  • Proof that less is more.

    Flag as inappropriate Posted by KathyHowe on 18th October 2007

  • wow! this is great! i am betting that people see the real you and want to work with you and being too 'done' just covers you up :) you will do great at the conference!! keep the booth - then you have a dedicated chair and 'home base' while you are there :p

    Flag as inappropriate Posted by Kate on 18th October 2007

  • Ha! I love this theory, and I would LOVE to see it borne out. I think you make your contacts based on that amazing personality of yours: the outgoing nature, the positivity, the radiant energy. Of course, all the personality in the world wouldn't get you a year's worth of contracts if you didn't have the experience, expertise, and professionalism to go with it -- but you do! Let us know how it goes!

    Flag as inappropriate Posted by MaryP on 18th October 2007

Have a question?

Check out our popular Q&A area to ask questions and search for answers.

Quick recipes

Check out our favorite quick and easy recipes, perfect for busy moms.

Affordable Luxuries Blog

Check out our daily picks for affordable luxuries for you and your family.

Support small businesses!