Devoted to online marketing, viral marketing, and web marketing

"With dauntless persistence, a sharp vision of what Russia should become and a sense that he embodied the spirit of Mother Russia, Putin has put his country back on the map."

Those were the words of Richard Stengel, the managing editor of Time Magazine, giving the reasons why they chose Vladimir Putin as their Person or Man of the Year.

While Putin is a contradiction by Western measurements and standards, he has definitely been a positive force for Russia.

I want to draw on several things listed within Stengel's comments above, which talk about the traits of Putin that made them pick him, and apply them toward being a successful online marketer and business operator. They also apply to anything we may endeavor to achieve.

If we understand the term embodiment, as it applies to running a business, we will see the vitality it gives to those that are successful. To embody something implies integrity; integrity of purpose and goals. It means that who you are is extended into what the business is. There are no disconnects between the two. That's an extremely important characteristic to have in any business or organization.

The implication is there is no hypocrisy, you don't need to try to be something, you simply "are" something. That something doesn't have to be contrived or handled, you simply live who you are through your chosen business vehicle.

From there, you and then establish the vision of the company. That won't be particularly difficult, as who you are within, will be represented by the company without. It's simply a matter of identifying the key business you're in and making that the vision of the company. As Putin does with Russia, it must be a concise, sharp vision; one that doesn't waver with the fads or short-term trends, but pushes and pulls people to come along and enter into the vision.

Third, when you know who you are and the vision of the company that emerges from that, persistantly, and unwaveringly pursuing that vision will bring you extraordinary success. LIke Russia, it will put you business on the map.

This post isn't about ignoring the faults Putin may have as a leader and man, it's simply underscoring what has helped him succeed in his purpose and vision. Those characteristics can unashamedly be embraced by anybody.