I will just start another paper company

And another one

Another [paper] company

"Our company is worth nothing. That's the difference between you and I. Business isn't about money to me, David. If tomorrow my company goes under, I will just start another paper company."

Michael Scott

Remember that funny Office episode? Michael Scott poaches clients from Dunder Mifflin and starts his own company. It does well at first, but then they realized they charged too little and end up in the red. 

When Dunder Mifflin tries to buy them out and they try to lowball him, Michael says his company is "worth nothing". That it's actually all about him. And he'll keep starting new companies if they shut down. (I could watch this episode over and over, honestly).

I love it so much. It's the best way to think about why your NAME matters. 

It's important for people to know you, not just the business you. 

People wanted to work with Michael Scott, not just his company.

This exactly why you should build a name for yourself, not just your current project. 

If it's all about the business, people might not care when you leave, as long as there's a replacement. 

But if it's about you - how you talk, your skills, and your connections - you don't have to worry as much about one job or business going under.

Or... maybe you're just not passionate about what you're doing and want to pivot.

You're building a network with a purpose. It's not about having the most followers, it's about the strong connections. 

Share what you know. Talk to people. Actually respond. Be generous.

I've seen impressive people become "recession-proof" (okay sometimes I hate this phrase). When others lose jobs, these people get job offers without even applying or announcing anything. 

And exactly why it's easier for people to buy from someone they know and LIKE << that's hard these days when people get too salesy, predatory, or out of touch.

No, you don't have to vlog on IG and be a content creator. You could meet people in person, use LinkedIn, go to events, or get referrals. 

Just remember, it's you and your name we're focusing on.

Create a brand that won't bore you

Your reputation isn't just about what you do - it's about owning how awesome you are. You're more qualified than you think... don't let imposter syndrome hold you back:

  • Keep a list, folder or like me, a Notion page of your wins (they're ALL good)

  • Practice talking about your wins without downplaying them

  • Update your wins page often to remind yourself during setbacks of how much has happened, big and small

Talking Points to Try This Week

Channel your Michael Scott energy and give yourself a pep talk. What makes you so confident that you, as a person, can bring the value/personality/skills wherever you go?

Work with me

  • I’m working with a few brands right now to refresh their strategy and design, making sure they’re not just consistent but actually exciting to show up for. If your brand feels like it needs more creative breathing room so you open up more opportunities for yourself, hit reply and let’s chat or go to my page and see more.