Do you know how valuable you are? Right now, you have an unprecedented opportunity to change your life. First you must change your mind, however.
I believe that each one of us has the ability to create, package and pitch our own product.

The secret behind your product is called Brand Me. Brand Me is not what you do, but it is who you are. You are a brand.

Statistics say that within less than a quarter of a second, a stranger has already formed an opinion about you. In less than five seconds, they have changed their minds at least eleven times! Every interaction creates an impression. In a world of clutter and competition, what will be your invaluable mark? How will you remain relevant?

YOU are the product that has priceless value. It is not your career, education, position on the team or in life. It is not WHAT you do but the secret lies in WHO you are.

In today’s rapidly changing economy of globalization, technological advancements, downsizing and decreasing social security, the one constant we know is change. In order to stay relevant, we all have to be able to make a shift in our thinking from being a consumer to being an owner, manager and producer of the product of our lives. This change will require creativity on a whole new level. One thing I feel is certain, you and I will be left behind in these changing times if we don’t first realize that the power to produce a profitable life starts now.

If you need proof, let’s take a look at the Internet revolution. All these forms of interactive connection reach millions with a click of a mouse. I don’t care if you are an executive, student, entrepreneur, mom-preneur, inmate, employee or somewhere in between; the world wide web is open to you. I speak every year and consult with people and organizations across the country, and I share this one powerful timeless truth: The most underdeveloped skill that will determine your success in life is your ability to know and market your unique value in any situation.

Melissa Dawn Johnson
Excerpt from the book Brand Me. Make Your Mark: Turn Passion into Profit
President of Velvet Suite Marketing and Brand Me International
“Velvet Hammer”