What is your word for 2021? I happen to really like this question, especially in the setting of networking. I have two for 2021: "Differentiation" and "Gamification."
My special guest has a word for 2021 as well...his is "Uplevel." What does Uplevel mean? Very simply, it is an adjective to describe having greater capabilities.
In 2021, having the best possible virtual representation of yourself, your brand, and your organization, has never been more important. Many SMB owners find themselves turning to brand strategists, thought leaders and trusted advisors in the world of LinkedIn.
We are joined by JD Gershbein, Founder of Owlish Communications. JD is a pioneer LinkedIn strategist, a distinguished social psychologist, and a true educator who acts as a facilitator of learning and brings the importance of personal branding to bear, especially in COVID-19 times.
Tune in for this pragmatic conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.
After a few technical difficulties, Steve introduces himself and talks about Small/Medium Businesses. Steve introduces the topic of the show of discussion which was ‘Up level your virtual presence.’ Steve then talks about his special guest – JD Gershbein – and his word for 2021 which is “UPLEVEL”. Steve introduces JD Gershbein the founder of Owlish Communications, by talking about his successful professional life. Steve also goes into great detail about JD and his presence in the online world. Steve then talks about how important professional interaction is and how networking is very closely linked to success and “making money,” he also adds there is now a need for a virtual presence – especially in the time of the pandemic.
Steve begins by talking to JD about his location and where he is sitting in Chicago. After some playful banter, the two get right into the world of having a virtual presence. JD talks about personal as well as professional branding, and relationship development – JD also talks about the sad reality of predatory and sad business tactics. JD emphasizes that these predatory sales tactics are not the best qualities, and people have more empathy and feelings towards them and that’s how you must approach them. Steve mentions how people are using automation as a shortcut rather than a way to get to know people better, and JD replied by talking about how these tools are there to learn more about those individuals on platforms such as LinkedIn.
JD and Steve talk about how having a virtual presence as an organization is a necessity, especially in the time of Corona. JD begins by talking about how he has never been a stranger to the virtual platform, as he has spent a lot of time working online throughout his life. JD emphasizes that “Networking is the new Prospecting” – this means there is more pressure on bringing everything on platforms from zoom to LinkedIn. JD and Steve also talk about how to present yourself on virtual platforms such as zoom (from zoom fatigue to how you appear or even the awkward break out room). Even on zoom appearance is everything, you have to look the part as well as keep your mannerisms professional, and you must go outside your comfort zone, according to JD. Both JD and Steve also go into how improv, comedy, and laughter also integrate with the themes of the show as well.
JD talks about the pandemic and how that has changed how important having an online presence. Steve mentions how he would not have met JD if he had not networked during the pandemic, and how the power of social networking on virtual platforms is actually very credible. Both JD and Steve explore why use or choose the word “UPLEVEL.” They continue by talking about how virtual workers have now normalized themselves and are adapting. Steve wraps up by going over JD’s favorite movie and television character and gives a shout out to the entrepreneurial web.
