What Is a Platform?

At IdeaMarketers we talk a lot about building a platform for our experts. That may be a new term for many, so a definition would be in order. There are several types of platforms:

1) It can be a raised surface or "stage" upon which something is presented. 
2) It can be a political platform from which a candidate establishes his presence and proclaims his message. 
3) In technology, a platform is an underlying computer system upon which application programs can run (like Windows, Mac, Unix, etc.) 

But we're not talking about physical, political or software platforms. We're talking about platforms of expertise. Still, a promotional platform like the ones we create for our experts cover many of the same elements of the previous three mentioned.  

1. We hold our experts up in the spotlight. We give them prominent position on our site, quote them as experts in blogs, articles and press releases. We promote their expertise via teleclasses, interviews, blogs, podcasts and more. We offer them a stage from which they can showcase their expertise.   
 
2. Like a political platform, a successful expert will have a well-defined message.  They will be able to clearly articulate what they do and who they help. Nancy Marmolejo (our visibility expert) calls it your "medicine." It's the healing solution you offer the world. You hold the cure for your target market's needs. For example, Nancy Spivey's core message is transformation -- transforming lives, homes and neighborhoods. My core message is "highlighting truth and talent."    
 
3. As with computer platforms, your platform of expertise is your underlying message upon which everything is built. Your message should filter through everything you do and impact all your systems, products and services down to the interaction you have with your clients.

Creating your platform starts with some soul searching. What are your talents? Where do you shine? What do people see in you and say, "Wow, how do you do that?" or "How do you know that?" Besides what you're good at, also consider your past pain. It too will play a significant role in your core message.  

For example, dating expert Stephany Alexander created www.WomanSavers.com, a revolutionary woman-to-woman "rate-before-you-date" network after being jilted herself. Her innovative site combines her savvy tech talents with her desire to save other women from suffering her same fate. 

Do you know what your core message is? If not, check out www.vivavisibility.com and get Nancy Marmolejo's free 7-part audio series. It will point you in the right direction. If you're like me and want to dig even deeper to a core spiritual life purpose and closer connection with God, you might be interested in my latest book coming out in a few weeks, "You're Here for a Reason: Discover and Live Your Purpose."

If you're interested in learning more about establishing your platform of expertise, Nancy Marmolejo and I were interviewed on Phil Davis' "The Name Game." You may listen to a recorded archive of it here. Just click on the 3/11/08 Make a Name for Yourself.

Comments

[Phillip Davis]

Hi Marnie,
It was great to have both you and Nancy on the show yesterday. And you have articulated the idea of a "platform" in a very succinct manner... as a stage, a message and a system. So all three meanings of platform seem applicable for the entrepreneur intent on creating a niche in the market.

For those who missed the show, be sure to click the link above on "The Name Game" and take a listen. Having these two experts for an hour is like drinking from a fire hydrant -- there's that much good information there.

Enjoy!

[Melanie]

Howdy Marnie ...

I listened to you and Nancy on "The Name Game" with Phil Davis. What a fabulous broadcast! It was not only informative, but delightful.
My expertise is in relationship building through teaching and public speaking. When I am in charge of an audience, I shine!
Now I must figure out how to transform my talents into dollars and cents. I have a clearly defined message, so I know what my "medicine" is. And here I sit ... feeling as if my feet are stuck in cement.

Somehow, I know that you will be the fuel that lights my fire.

God bless you,

Melanie Kissell

[sikirulai]

This is a commendable work and l wan.t to specially thank you for your efforts.

Good job.