Today it was really interesting to read something about branding. Which made me think...

I used to do workshops on branding. And our branding back here at The Apprentice Academy is starting to get standardized - something I have been gently implementing for a couple of months.  The change is coming... we will get there. 

So today it was really interesting to read something about branding. Which made me think...

From the Linchpin Academy (like the name...) 

There is an  edited down a brilliant video that talks about BRAND.  

You will find the video here.

It is really well worth a watch. 

This video talks about lots of global brands which obviously have taken a colossal amount of money, time and effort to build the brand equity to where it is now.   

Couple of keys things to take away from the video were:

• Brand is an expectation you set and it's not something you own! 
• Expectation is set through a prospect's experience.
• Declaration of a promise or value is nothing more than words.  (saying you deliver great customer service isn't the same as experiencing great customer service)
• You have to pay to build a brand. You either pay with money or time. There are no shortcuts.

All the above is soooo true. 

Your customer MUST experience something which aligns with your story and your brand promise for it to become something they will tell people about. 

And you only have three things in life - money. time and energy. There are no shortcuts - what you pay with one you save with the other. 

There are no shortcuts to establishing a brand especially when you are in an established industry like we are at The Apprentice Academy. 

Apprenticeships are as old as the hills. But new modern apprenticeships like our digital and social media apprenticeships are brand new. But they do not make a brand. They start it.

This is completely taken from the legend who is Richard Branson...Taking on Giants

What does an upstart need to take on a giant and win? 

 

Richard Branson just blogged about this - and the man is a legend - so I add it here to remember it. 

 

What RB says about taking on the giants is really something that we here at The Apprentice Academy really have to listen too.  As our plan is to help as many young people in Manchester as possible, get into work, through our clients / employers in Manchester recruiting Apprentices. However, in doing so we will be disturbing some really BIG giants in the process i.e. universities and schools amongst others.

 

What RB says about what you need to take on the BIG boys... 

 

 "Nothing but bravery, good people and a great idea. If you have a brilliant team around you, are determined to make it work and develop a concept that will genuinely have a positive impact upon people’s lives, then nothing can stop you.

I loved Luke Johnson’s recent FT article about cutting titans down to size. He contested a Wall Street Journal piece suggesting that new entrepreneurs don’t have the animal spirit to succeed: “Ingenuity and ambition are all that the pioneer needs to take on established businesses.” He also questioned the assumption that large corporations make it tough for new companies to get a foothold.

Big, stale industries that are set in their ways are ripe for disruption. The well-known players will have got used to succeeding without reinventing or innovation. A superb new idea with superior customer service, marketed in a refreshing way, will be able to cut through the competition. As Luke puts it: “The tendency towards consolidation creates opportunities for innovative newcomers.”

Established companies may not take notice of you at first, but that can be an advantage for the newcomer. When we started Virgin Records nobody had any idea who we were. Soon the major labels were wondering where this indie had come from and why the coolest bands were signing for us rather than them.

Banking is a good example of this, with Virgin Money among those challenging the established giants by offering better products and services. Innovations such as our Lounges are also convincing people to change their banking habits and try something new. In aviation, Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Australia and now Virgin America have been taking on the big boys for years.

New entrepreneurs do need a lot of support though. We offer assistance through schemes such as the Branson Centres of Entrepreneurship, Virgin Media Pioneers, Start-Up Loans and Virgin Academy. Finding the right support structure, mentors and training can be a huge help. Though of course, nothing beats just getting out there and giving it a go.

Whatever the sector, there are opportunities just waiting to be seized. The established giants can’t stop you – in fact, the only one who can hold you back is yourself."

By Richard Branson. Founder of Virgin Group

LinkedIn recently released the LinkedIn Inspiration Index (LII) which I was very happy to take part in.

LinkedIn recently released the LinkedIn Inspiration Index (LII) They asked people one simple question: How often do you feel inspired by your work?  

I got a score of 90 out of a 100 for my work with The Apprentice Academy - which is not surprising as inspiring a whole new generation of young people into doing something amazing and being an apprentice - is something that Jim Clarke our MD has been inspiring us all about. As developing future talent is our passion.  

Based on surveys of thousands of people across 8 countries and 80 industries, the index gives us a glimpse at what industries leave employees feeling inspired -- and what industries lack inspiration.

The Top Five Most Inspired Industries

Based on initial research, people in these industries felt the most inspired (LII score in parentheses):

1) Fine art (82)

2) Religious institutions (81)

3) Sports (81)

4) Professional training and coaching (80) (With people like us at The Apprentice Academy)

5) Nonprofit organization and management (78)

The Bottom Five Least Inspired Industries

According to the initial data, these industries will have you feeling the least inspired:

1) Semiconductors (61)

2) Defense and space (60)

3) Online media (60) (ouch as I used to be in this a little with digital marketing)

4) Industrial automation (59)

5) Architecture and planning (58)

This original article is taken from  Dave Kerpen from Likeable Local who adds: In the meantime, no matter what job or industry you work in, we can all use a little inspiration.

 8 Simple Ways to Inspire Yourself at Work

Whether you work in a typically-inspiring industry or not, you can benefit from feeling inspired. And while all eight of the above are excellent ways to get inspired, for me, the most important question isn't what inspires you - it's who inspires you. The best way to get inspired is other people.

1) Read a book.

There are thousands of great, time-tested books available for inspiration and motivation. I wrote on LinkedIn about nine great books that have inspired me and changed my life here. I'm currently reading another amazing, timeless, inspirational book that is having a profound impact: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. 

2) Write a blog post or letter.

Reading can be very valuable, but writing requires more thinking, and so it can be even more valuable. Write about something you're passionate about - write about how to solve a problem, or write an article about your business that you wish you had read yourself a year ago. You don't even need to publish it for writing to be effective. But if you do want to publish it, here's how to become a better writer.

3) Exercise.

Sometimes you just need to get the blood flowing. Go for a walk, or a run, or a workout. There are two great advantages of exercise: First, it's healthy for your body. Second, it forces you to spend time thinking - time when you can't be on your smartphone or otherwise distracted. As little as 15 minutes of movement can burn some calories - and set your mind on fire with new ideas and inspiration.

4) Write a thank you note.

Not a thank you email, or a thank you text, or even a thank you phone call - a physical, hand-written thank you note. Tony Robbins said, "Gratitude is the antidote to the two things that stop us: fear and anger." I have found that is impossible to feel upset and grateful at the same time. So every morning, I start out my day by writing three thank-you cards. Here's more about my thank-you card routine.

5) Perform a random act of kindness.

The ironic and amazing thing about acts of kindness is that they end up being kind-of selfish, because you feel SO great after doing them. Open a door for people leaving it for awhile. Help an elderly lady cross the street. Buy a homeless man lunch. Retweet a bunch of people. Whatever you do, take your mind off of yourself and your problems and focus on helping another person. You'll come back feeling rejuvenated.

6) Read inspiring quotes.

Reading a book or even an article can take more time than you have to spare sometimes. So it's worth looking at inspiring quotes from great leaders, writers and thinkers of the past. Google makes it easy - simple search for "Inspiring quotes about [whatever it is that's on your mind]," and feel better within seconds. Here are 25 of my favorite inspirational quotes for leaders.

7) Listen to music.

Plato said, "Music is the movement of sound to reach the soul for the education of its virtue." Looking to educate your soul? Or perhaps just to let off some steam and feel better about the work before you? Turn on your Itunes, or Spotify, YouTube, or even the radio, to elevate your mood through music. Here are 21 songs to inspire you at work- favorites from 21 entrepreneurs I know.

8) Watch an inspiring video.

As inspiring and uplifting as music can be, video can be even more inspiring. Whether it's your favorite movie, or, if you don't have time, a short video you find through a quick search on YouTube, you can get in a good mood in just a few minutes.

So what do high growth companies do that is different from those who experience more modest success?

Here are 10 tips that will make your business grow faster according to John Leach - from Winning Pitch.

1. Work on your proposition
Create and craft differentiated propositions that stand out from the crowd – don’t compete on price, compete on difference, find your edge.

2. Have a plan 
Develop an effective vision, strategy and execute a practical game plan – communicate this to the rest of your team – success is 20% thinking and 80% doing. Strategies evolve by thinking doing and reviewing.

3. Innovate
Drive innovation into the processes and functions of your company and always look at doing things differently. Put into place a lets try it mentality.

4. See change as a positive
Embrace change and see it as an opportunity to develop and introduce new propositions.

5. Surround yourself with the right people
Build a great team – thinkers, sellers, doers and controllers – create a culture where values and behaviours are aligned to delivering great service both internally and externally

6. Think positive
Condition your mindset – coping with the challenges that come with growth means a Believe You Can (BYC) state of mind is vital

7. Customer is king 
Live in the “Customer’s World” and deliver services and products that capture their need and voice. Build long-term relationship and keep coming up with new ideas to address their challenges.

8. Spend time on processes 
Disciplined systems and processes need to be put in place – KPIs that provide a real time state of business health are vital. Key your eye on cash and how you finance your company. Get expert help.

9. Learn to sell 
Become great at selling and put the sales engine in place – sales are the lifeblood of any organisations, sell what you believe in as well as the products and services you offer.

10. Build your network 
Find connectors that can provide answers to the challenges you face – getting experienced mentors, coaches and non executive directors working to raise the bar of performance are an essential ingredient of success.

Great 7 tips from the man like the Brian Tracy - #supersalesman...

Goal Setting
Every morning, take 3 to 5 minutes to write out your top goals in the present tense. Get a spiral notebook for this purpose. By writing out your 10 goals at the beginning of each day, you will program them deep into your subconscious mind.

This daily goal writing will activate your mental powers. It will stimulate your mind and make you more alert. Throughout the day, you will see opportunities and possibilities to move more rapidly toward your goals.

Planning and Organizing
Take a few minutes, preferably the night before, to plan out every activity of the coming day. Always work from a list. Always think on paper. This is one of the most powerful and important disciplines of all for high performance.

Priority Setting
The essence of all time management, personal management, and life management is contained in your ability to set proper priorities and use of your time. This is essential for high performance.

Concentration on your Highest-Value Activities
Your ability to work single-mindedly on your most important task will contribute as much to your success as any other discipline you can develop.

Exercise and Proper Nutrition
Your health is more important than anything else. By disciplining yourself to exercise regularly and to eat carefully, you will promote the highest possible levels of health and fitness throughout your life.

Learning and Growth
Your mind is like a muscle. If you don’t use it, you lose it. Continuous learning is the minimum requirement for success in any field.

Time for Important People in your Life
Relationships are everything. Be sure that in climbing the ladder of success, you do not find it leaning against the wrong building. Make time for your relationships every day, no matter how busy you get.

Action Exercise
These 7 disciplines will ensure that you perform at the highest level and get the greatest satisfaction and results from everything you do. Study these 7 disciplines and then make a plan for how you can incorporate each of them into your daily life. 

All good stuff - to use with our apprentices and in our business at The Apprentice Academy.

So is this...but that's another story...

A faberNovel Study: LinkedIn, the Serious Network. from faberNovel

I will be.... some great rules to think by.

You can be an analytical, data-driven, steely-eyed businessperson all you like, but business is ultimately about people.

That means business is also about emotions: both yours and those of the people you interact with every day.

Want to make a huge difference in your life and in the lives of the people you care about, both professionally and personally?

Say these things to yourself every day--and then vow to follow through on the commitment you make:

I will answer the unasked question.

Maybe they're hesitant. Maybe they're insecure. Maybe they're shy. Whatever the reason, people often ask a different question than the one they really want you to answer.

One employee might ask whether you think he should take a few business classes; what he really wants to know is whether you see him as able to grow in your organization. He hopes you'll say you do and he hopes you'll share the reasons why.

Your husband might ask if you thought the woman at the party was flirting with him; what he really wants to know is if you still think he's flirt-worthy and whether you still find him attractive. He hopes you'll say you do and he'll love when you share the reasons why.

Behind many questions is an unasked question.

Pay attention so you can answer that question, too, because that is the answer the other person doesn't just want, but needs.

I will refuse to wait.

You don't have to wait to be discovered. You don't have to wait for an okay. You don't have to wait for someone else to help you.

You can try to do whatever you want to do. Right now.

You may not succeed. But you don't have to wait.

Don't wait.

 

I will appreciate the unappreciated.

Some jobs require more effort than skill. Bagging groceries, delivering packages, checking out customers--the tasks are relatively easy. The difference is in the effort.

Do more than say "thanks" to someone who does a thankless job. Smile. Make eye contact. Exchange a kind word.

All around you are people who work hard with little or no recognition. Vow to be the person who recognizes at least one of them every day.

Not only will you give respect, you'll earn the best kind of respect--the respect that comes from making a difference, however fleeting, in another person's life.

I will give latitude instead of direction.

You're in charge. You know what to do. So it's natural to tell your employees what to do and how to do it.

In the process you stifle their creativity and discount their skills and experience.

Letting another person decide how is the best way to show you respect their abilities and trust their judgment.

In a command and control world, latitude is a breath of freedom and is a gift anyone can give.

I will stop and smell my roses.

You have big plans. You have big goals. You're never satisfied, because satisfaction breeds complacency.

So most of the time you're unhappy because you think more about what you have notachieved, have not done, and do not have.

Take a moment and think about what you do have, professionally and especially personally. At this moment you have more than you once ever thought possible.

Sure, always strive for more but always take a moment to realize that all the things you have, especially your relationships, are more important than anything you want to have.

Unlike a want, what you have isn't a hope, a wish, or a dream. What you already have is real.

And it's awesome. And it's yours.

Appreciate it.

I will look below the surface.

Sometimes people make mistakes. Sometimes they piss you off.

When that happens it's natural to assume they didn't listen or didn't care. But often there's a deeper reason. They may feel stifled. They may feel they have no control. They may feel frustrated or marginalized or ignored or not cared for.

If you're in charge, whether at work or at home, you may need to deal with the mistake. But then look past the action for the underlying issues.

Anyone can dole out discipline; vow to provide understanding, empathy, and to help another person deal with the larger issue that resulted in the mistake.

After all, you might have caused the issue.

I will make love a verb.

You love your work. When you're working that feeling shows in everything you say and do.

You love your family. When you're with them does that feeling show in everything you say and do?

Hmm.

Love is a feeling, and feelings are often selfish. Turn your feelings into an action. Actively love the people you love. Show them you love them by words and deeds.

When you make love a verb the people you care about know exactly how you feel. Make sure they do.

I will be myself.

You worry about what other people think. Yet no matter how hard you try, you can't be all things to all people.

But you can be as many things as possible to the people you love.

And you can be the best you.

Be yourself. That is the one thing you can do better than anyone else.

Jeff Haden learned much of what he knows about business and technology as he worked his way up in the manufacturing industry. Everything else he picks up fromghostwriting books for some of the smartest leaders he knows in business. @jeff_haden