Expert Tips from Sharvette Mitchell
In the competitive landscape of government contracting, visibility isn't just about being seen—it's about being remembered, trusted, and chosen. During the October 2024 Minority GovCon Business Summit, Sharvette Mitchell, CEO of Mitchell Productions, shared powerful insights on crafting a visibility strategy that opens doors in the federal marketplace.
The Foundation: Understanding Visibility in GovCon
"Visibility is about all the ways, both online and offline, that a customer—whether that's a contracting officer, a prime, or a potential subcontractor—can find and evaluate you," Mitchell explained during her compelling presentation.
This multi-dimensional approach to visibility has become increasingly crucial in an era where first impressions often happen digitally.
Crafting Your Professional Identity
Your professional presence in government contracting begins with consistent, polished branding. Mitchell emphasized that this goes far beyond just having a logo and business cards.
"Your brand colors and visual elements should be consistent across all platforms," she advised. "When someone sees your capability statement, then visits your LinkedIn profile, and finally meets you in person, they should experience a seamless, professional presentation."
The summit audience learned that brand consistency builds trust, and in government contracting, trust often translates to opportunities. Mitchell shared how a contracting officer once reached out to her based solely on her consistent professional presence across various platforms, leading to a significant contract opportunity.
Leveraging LinkedIn for Government Contracting Success
LinkedIn emerged as a central theme in Mitchell's visibility strategy. "LinkedIn isn't just another social media platform—it's where government contracting happens," she emphasized. She outlined several key elements for optimizing LinkedIn presence:
First, your profile should clearly state your role in government contracting. Include relevant certifications and past performance in your headline and about section. Mitchell recommended using keywords that contracting officers and prime contractors frequently search for.
Second, your content strategy should demonstrate expertise in your field. Share insights, celebrate wins (appropriately), and provide value to your network. "Don't just post when you want something," Mitchell advised. "Build relationships by consistently adding value to the government contracting community."
The Power of In-Person Networking
While digital presence is crucial, Mitchell stressed the continuing importance of in-person networking. "Government contracting is still very much a relationship-based business," she noted. She shared how attending industry days, conferences, and networking events led to several of her company's successful contracts.
The key to successful networking, according to Mitchell, lies in preparation. Before attending any event, research attending agencies and contractors. Prepare your elevator pitch, but more importantly, prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your understanding of their needs and challenges.
Creating Content That Converts
Content creation emerged as a powerful tool for visibility in the government contracting space. Mitchell shared her strategy for creating content that positions you as a thought leader while attracting potential opportunities. "Your content should showcase your expertise while addressing the specific challenges and needs of your target agencies," she explained.
She recommended developing a content calendar that includes:
Industry insights and analysis
Project success stories (within appropriate bounds)
Educational content about your specific expertise
Updates on relevant certifications and capabilities
Engagement with industry news and developments
Building Trust Through Consistency
One of the most impactful messages from Mitchell's presentation was about the power of consistency. "In government contracting, trust is built over time through consistent demonstration of capability and professionalism," she emphasized. This means maintaining regular visibility through both digital and traditional channels, always presenting a polished, professional image, and delivering value in every interaction.
Measuring Visibility Impact
Mitchell provided practical tips for measuring the effectiveness of visibility efforts.
She encouraged contractors to track:
Engagement rates on professional platforms
Number of meaningful industry connections made
Quality of opportunities presented
Changes in contract win rates
Growth in teaming opportunities
Looking Forward
"Visibility in government contracting is an ongoing journey, not a destination," Mitchell concluded. "Your visibility blueprint should evolve as your business grows and as the market changes."
Take Action Today
Ready to transform your visibility in the government contracting space? Join us at the April 2025 Minority GovCon Business Summit to learn more strategies for building a strong presence in the federal marketplace.
Early registration ensures access to:
Expert-led visibility workshops
Networking opportunities with key decision-makers
Professional branding consultations
Social media strategy sessions
Professional photography sessions
Register now to secure your spot and begin building your visibility blueprint for government contracting success.
About the Speaker
Sharvette Mitchell is THE PLATFORM BUILDER® and CEO of Mitchell Productions, LLC, a WOSB and SWaM certified professional consulting and marketing firm supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, government clients, and corporate clients. With a 25-year background in corporate America at Capital One Bank and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Virginia Commonwealth University, she has established herself as a foremost authority in the marketing landscape.
Her acclaimed radio show, The Sharvette Mitchell Radio Show, has aired over 715+ episodes since 2008, featuring marketing insights and powerful conversations. She has been featured in prestigious publications including Yahoo! Finance, AARP, Huffington Post, and has appeared on CBS 6 Monday Motivation and The CW Network. A prolific author, she has contributed to five book collaborations including PROPEL, POUR, PURSUE, PEARLS, and Prepare for PURPOSE.
Sharvette holds a certificate from ICF for Professional Leadership Coaching and embodies a blend of coaching and influential leadership in her approach to helping businesses amplify their brand visibility and achieve growth in the government contracting space.
Connect with Sharvette:
Website: www.mitchell-productions.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sharvette
Blog: www.Sharvette.com
Phone: (804) 806-4407 ext 101
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