For the socially savvy its a reflex to constantly handicap your social status. Just watch an episode of Fox's North Shore and see Waimea's new manager, the powerful yet marginalized Alexandra (Shannen Doherty), struggle to maintain control of the staff's loyality (actually uses the staff's hatred of her to maintain control–except this week she tried a new one on Chris. Think they're gonna do it?).

Maintain predictable patterns in business and others can judge your value to their needs. A retail example relevant to my Bay Area can be found by asking anyone (who has shopped there) what they think about Fry's Electronics. They'll say Fry's has great prices, and, as a warehouse-style retailer, you can find almost any electronic component you need. It is a hardware store. But, another opinion many customers agree about Fry's Electronics is their tech advise is crap.

Computers are complex and extremely customizable. Its understandable a store with so much product would blow it on the point of advise. When you ask a question to inform your own purchase decision you're better off asking, "what's the return policy?" This forms their reputation and despite this alarming issue, they do a fantastic business. Understanding your reputation can begin with simply asking your clients what they think about working with you. Its important you realize its not always possible to connect in a meaningful way with all your customer's needs. To be successful you don't always have to.

• Jim Boere writes about getting customer feedback.
• Net-Temps Article: What's the Buzz on you?
• Linkedin business net-networking has a prominent feature that allows others to post comments about you. As I write this you can read the profile of Kelly Perdew, winner of "The Apprentice" Season 2. The endorsements section features many comments that read very well for him. Here is a quote from their home page:

“I’ve been using LinkedIn as the tool for managing my professional relationships and reputation since August 2003.”
— Kelly Perdew, Winner of “The Apprentice"

In an office environment you can rely on the collaborative benefit of coworkers sharing the same stresses to steer you towards good work patterns. As an independent you have to plan to work it out yourself. These links will get you started thinking. Personally, I've had success with my efforts when I've asked for feedback. The real trick is thinking ahead and asking people at the right time. Its difficult to get good feedbaack months after you finish an assignment. I know, I've let the ball drop and later regretted, because I knew what I finished was a good portfolio–quality-project. Its nearly impossible to recapture in words what a few good questions can establish after the real work is done.