Google the phrase "positive self-image in business" and you'll see about 80+ million results. These range from how self-image and business and are all are connected to why cultivating a positive self-image can increase professional success. Self-image boils down to a simple and longstanding pivot point: attitude matters. In other words, those who expect and project success tend to be more successful than those who don't in both life and business. So, how do you want to project yourself; as confident and successful? If yes, then it's time to allot time to doing it and doing it right.

Self-Image Projection 101

Either before or after meeting someone, what steps do you take to learn more about them? Most of us Google by inputting the person's name or a question about them into a Google search. Why do we turn to Google nowadays? We know our search will likely pull up social media, resume profiles and/or a website. It's the perfect means of seeing just what a person stands for—what they project.

"It's like everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always.All the time. That story makes you what you are. We build ourselves out of that story." –Patrick Rothfuss

Whether we realize it or not, we build our self-image. Our expectations are largely determined by the nature and strength of our self-image, and both contribute to how we project ourselves. So before you even start projecting yourself onto the Internet for Google and "googlers" to discover, you need to harbor a positive self-image.

Successfully Projecting Positive Online

"I think…you still have no idea. The effect you can have." –Suzanne Collins

A well planned, structured and displayed image of you and your company can have a stronger, more profound impact than you might think. In fact, it can determine whether or not your ideal clients pay you any attention. If someone googles you or your company, your success will hinge on ensuring that they see a strong, positive image. The good news is that you have limitless avenues of achieving this online. Let's consider a few:

• A clear website: You can compare your website to a first line of defense. It's often the first and most persuasive thing a prospective client sees. Therefore, it's vital to ensure it projects a positive self-image through both written and visual content. It should clearly project your values and mission.
• Engaging blogs: A blog is a vital piece of cyber real estate. Your audience wants to connect with you, and a strong means of accomplishing this is through interactive, engaging blogs. Write about topics that are relevant to you and your business. Encourage readers to comment, and remember to engage them.
• Informative white papers: White papers are a powerful yet overlooked avenue to projecting a positive self-image. A white paper is a well-researched, authoritative guide or report that helps readers understand an issue, solve a problem or make a decision. Use it to reinforce your value, mission and how you meet a need.
• Content contribution: Many e-zines and reputable companies (such as Yahoo! Small Business) accept content contribution. Contributing informative, educational material produces a positive, community minded self-image.
• Appealing videos / interviews: We live in a fast paced world. Your ideal clients don't always have time to read content. Preparing and presenting appealing videos, podcasts and live or recorded interviews with optional scripts for download is a fantastic way to please busy bees. Not only will you create a positive impression, but you'll be investing in a lasting one.
• Thought provoking infographics: Infographics are great for visual illustration. They help viewers grasp an otherwise hard-to-understand topic by breaking it down into simple points with visual aids. Using them indicates your want to educate, which projects positivity.
• Social media presence: You can blast a positive self-image over social media channels and encourage it through lively, active interaction with your following and community. In fact, you can even share everything listed above via social media.

"Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure." –Confucius

Projecting a positive self-image takes foresight and preparation. If you take the time now to invest in proper projection, you can be sure you're on the path to success. Be sure to subscribe to my blog as we will discuss more business success tips in the near future.