The Content Engine – from Kim Funk Creative

My uncle’s career has brought him into the circles of some of the world’s most powerful and influential people. As you can imagine, his tales of power and influence make him an interesting dinner guest. But what I find most interesting is his stories of ordinary people. Because it’s those interactions that show his true character.

He treats everyone – from service workers, to small children, to strangers with the same respect. And this makes him magnetic. People want to be around him. People have good things to say about him – always. These soft skills are a powerful and strategic tool for your personal brand.

As personal brands become table stakes, little details will start to set folks apart from the pack. A simple “please” and “thank you” can help you stand out from everyone else screaming for attention online. “Please” and “thank you” reinforce professionalism, create emotional connection, and signal self-awareness. When you acknowledge and show you value what others have to say, people notice.

Politeness = Professionalism

Whether you’re meeting with an important client or interviewing for a job, politeness and professionalism make a bold statement. Your command of “please” and “thank you” demonstrates your understanding of social nuance, which is key in professional circles. Climbing the corporate ladder requires maturity and confidence. There is no better way to demonstrate these two things than using good manners. Besides that, these two words set you apart.

Businesses are transactional by nature. But they’re still full of human beings living the human experience. When you use “please” and “thank you” you acknowledge other people’s humanity. You remind them that they’re not just a number. Leaders who make this a habit can increase morale and productivity within the organization. Refining your tone in emails to clients can boost traction and, ultimately make you more money.

Creates an Emotional Connection

When you use “please” and “thank you” you create an immediate emotional connection with the person you’re addressing. Hearing those words makes someone feel seen and valued. And people want to work with people who make them feel seen.

President Theodore Roosevelt once said, “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” It’s great advice. Use “please” and “thank you” to show others that you care and that you value them. They’ll be more likely to trust what you have to say.

Signals Self-awareness

When it comes down to it, using “please” and “thank you” is a choice. Using them shows you understand your impact and you are intentional with your words. Intention is everything in a personal brand obsessed world where pick me girls dominate social. In a personal brand obsessed world, intention is the differentiator.

Choosing to use “please” and “thank you” sets you apart. It’s like speaking quietly in a room where everyone is yelling. Suddenly, everyone quiets down because they want to hear what you have to say.

As brands create content just to put something out on socials, intentional creative or copy gets noticed. Brands that take the time to think about what they’re saying make a bigger impact. If you want more followers and more engagement with you posts, you need to make an impact. Investing in “please” and “thank you” yield a surprising impact.

Your personal brand is how people see you. Good manners are simply good branding. Using two simple words, “please” and “thank you” is a great starting point as you build a strong personal brand. Take note of how often you use “please” and “thank you” in your day to day interactions too. Decide how you can use them more. See what happens.

Remember, how you treat people – especially in the small moments becomes your legacy.