Let success be your calling card

If you want to make a difference in the world, you will need to set yourself apart, and be known and admired by the people you intend to help.  The best way to do that is to let success be your calling card.

During the 18th and 19th Centuries, calling cards were routinely used in social settings. These could be used for an introduction, or to communicate congratulations or condolences. There was strict etiquette on their use and format.  Cards were delivered to the recipient by placing the card on a tray at the entrance of the home. The purpose of the card could be indicated by folding the card at a corner and by writing certain initials on the card. These could also indicate the type of response that was requested.

At this time calling cards were very specific and meant to provide clarity for the recipient to introduce the deliverer, communicate the purpose of the visit, and set any expectations for a response. Today we might use the personal greeting card or the business card, but we are more likely to use email, text, or other electronic forms of calling cards. While these are important methods to connect with people, they do not alone set apart the sender

If you want to make a difference in the world, you will need to set yourself apart, and be known and admired by the people you intend to help.  The best way to do that is to let success be your calling card.

Introduction. We have all been at events where someone is brought up on stage with words that include “here is someone who needs no introduction.”  That only happens when your success precedes the introduction and people already know you from your accomplishments.  You should strive for success which gives you that kind of name recognition. When your name is seen in an email, you want people to open it up just because it’s you.  This can be right where you are at work, in the community, and for some on the broader stage of recognition.  This will happen when you consistently achieve success.

Communication.  Name recognition is powerful, but even better is to communicate what you have successfully accomplished. Then not only do the very people want to help know your name, but they admire and respect you for your achievements.  They want to be connected with you and be part of your success.  

Expectation.  This is where it all comes together. It’s time to set expectations for what it takes to achieve what you have.  This is how you make a difference in the world, by helping others make full use of their abilities and achieve their success.  Through mentoring, coaching, training, speaking, and others means you have at your disposal, you share your story of success with everyone you can.

If you want to make a difference in the world, you will need to set yourself apart, and be known and admired by the people you intend to help.  The best way to do that is to let success be your calling card.