Make Yourself Memorable

The Ugly Necklace

For several years, I accessorized my business outfits with the most beautiful piece of jewelry I owned - a long, heavy, noisy necklace on fishing line of assorted sea shells, beads, and sequins. It hung to my waist, rattled and sparkled as I moved, and weighed a ton!

I'll never forget the day I received this precious gift. My son came home from art camp with a turquoise tissue package tucked in his tote bag. He was squirming with excitement, barely able to contain himself, as he begged and pleaded for me to open it. I ripped open the paper and stared in awe at the ugliest beautiful necklace I'd ever seen.

My son began talking, words tumbling over each other, about how he'd carefully chosen each sea shell by holding them up to his ear and listening for the ocean; how he'd selected each bead by shape and color according to what he felt were my favorites; and how he had laid everything out in one long line at his work table and meticulously created a pattern; before stringing it all together on fishing line.

He paused to smile, and then described how his teacher had said he could make this necklace for anybody he wanted to. "I picked you, mom. And I made it as pretty as you are!"

I heaved it around my neck and felt that warm rush of overwhelming love only a parent can feel for their child.

A week or so later, as I was on my way out the door to meet with a prospective customer, my son suggested that I wear his necklace. I thought to myself that I couldn't possibly wear it into my meeting - but I could make him happy and wear it until I got there.

So, I took it from the belt hook in my closet (it was too large to fit in my jewelry box), wrapped it twice around my neck, kissed my son goodbye, and went on my way.

I forgot to take it off!

As I discussed a project with this new customer, her eyes kept wandering to my throat, presumably at the necklace engulfing my blouse. I finally asked her, "I bet you're wondering about this necklace ...?" I lifted it in the palm of my hand and held it out to her for closer inspection. Then I launched into the story about my son, and art camp, and his suggestion as I left to meet with her.

I got the project without even giving her a bid first. And when I called back to schedule delivery, the receptionist asked if I could please wear my special necklace because others in the office wanted to see it!

All of this is to say that the ugly, beautiful necklace makes me memorable. It's a great conversation starter and shows prospects and customers a real side of me that makes our meeting seem more personal to them. More than that, it represents why I started a home business in the first place and what is most important in my life - my family.

When meeting with prospective clients and otherwise representing your business, you should certainly offer a professional appearance and behave appropriately. BUT - that doesn't mean you need to blend in.

Do the unexpected - make yourself standout - be memorable.

Do you have an ugly necklace?

By Michelle Johanson
© 2004 Projects Plus LLC

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