I agree. Sometimes it’s more than trivial to figure out which parts of us we want to carry into our different business and social relationships. Not everyone is going to be up to this challenge, and not everyone will “sell” themselves in the same way.

As the tools are developed to help with this, a sense of “best practices” will likely emerge. I’m watching the VRM space (see, for example ProjectVRM) and what’s happening in the UK (see, for example, How do we help UK government shift control of personal data to the individual?) for news of emergent tools and activities. These are interesting times!

When the factory where I worked for thirty years closed they brought in a job consultant to teach us techniques of interviewing, resumes, etc. One of the things she said was “learn how to sell yourself”. I raised my hand to ask a question. “Excuse me, what do we call someone that sells themselves for money” The room erupted in laughter, yet it is a perspective people need to consider. We need to realize what needing a job does to our character. Is it really necessary to sell out or can we be ourselves without losing the ability to survive and function in our societies? As an Atheist this question is always close to my heart. I’m an Individual, I’m an Atheist and I should be able to be open about my world view, even when seeking a job.