"Congratulations Lydia!" I said as she shared a recent thank you email. She had written a business etiquette article which was published it an industry magazine. A reader tracked down Lydia Ramsey of MannersThatSell.com and penned a digital thank you. Lydia didn't sound very happy, "It's a very nice note, but I don't know what to do with it." Lydia's lament is typical for writers and bloggers who don't quite know what to do with digital praise. Whenever I receive this type of call from a client, I simply apply the three most important elements for making technology work, leverage.

Leverage, leverage, leverage is to technology, what location, location, location is to real estate.

Digital testimonials are like diamonds. They both have many facets, require just the right setting, and are completely worthless unless you show them off. Your response to receiving either of these gifts should be subtle, understated and perfectly timed. Managing testimonials is an important part of your Brand Reputation Strategy. Yes strategy. You simply can't leave your digital brand to the whims of the Bloggerati. Here's an outline of the advice I gave to Lydia, I hope you too will find it helpful.

When you Receive Digital Praise

• Acknowledge it Immediately - It reinforces good behavior and demonstrates your good manners.
• Categorize - What is it for, why were your actions singled out? Jot down some tags that put in perspective this singular honor. Include topic, service or product, core organization values.
• Connect - Use the tags to connect the dots between what you do or what you stand for.
• Leverage - The topic of Lydia's article was business dining. I suggested it could be used to promote her dining presentation, dining book, included as part of a writing assignment pitch.

Smart, sophisticated women never, ever wear all of their diamonds at once. Publishing all of your testimonials all at once is just so gauche! Sprinkle them about, in context, so they are shown in their best light.

Jerry's Note: Gauche? It's funny, but whenever I work with business etiquette expert Lydia Ramsey, I'm always on my best behavior, or vocabulary!