Selling Yourself

They say ‘desperate times call for desperate measures’, which is true enough; however, despite this tumultuous period, I am not (yet) suggesting a turn to the “world’s oldest profession”!

Selling yourself is a basic principle that we too often overlook which is readily applicable to those who are looking for a new opportunity, as well as those who are in any given job. We all know the importance of this when it comes to dealing with clients and new acquaintances, but too often neglect it when interacting with co-workers and bosses. Now some, who are gainfully employed, may question how they can do this; yet, it is just as important in keeping your job- and excelling at it, as it is when trying to land a new one.

In regards to those who are employed, this principle is often done by what you do rather than what you say. It boils down to your results, as well as to your contributions and attitude. Even to those who are salaried (not on any type of commission), work as though you are getting paid for production. Focus also on what you contribute to your workplace and co-workers, even when you think it doesn’t affect you directly- because it does. Contribute with creative thoughts and good ideas, positivity and encouragement, mentoring and instruction, as well as a helpful attitude and caring demeanor. This, along with concentrating on your contribution to the bottom line allows you to continually sell yourself to your employer and your team mates.

To those on the prowl for a new job, a few simple tactics are in order. DON’T try to sell yourself on that little piece of paper called a resumé! More is not better in this case. Simply make them curious to learn more, to want you in for an interview. Once in an interview, humbly let them know how you have (personally) benefitted other companies and what you would contribute to their company- how you could benefit them, increase production, cut costs and operate more efficiently.

Hand in hand to sales is marketing, and one of the most integral parts of marketing is branding. So in the same stream of consciousness of selling yourself also focus on branding yourself (no, not with a hot iron!)

For those of you in a good and promising job (or at least one that pays the bills), determine what your specific strengths are, what you’re best at and likely were hired for. On a regular basis, even daily, make sure you are both using and enhancing those strengths, becoming even more adept at those valuable commodities you possess. Decide how you will further heighten those abilities (see last week’s post), and do it! Become the best in your specific areas of expertise in your profession, or at least in your office.

Similarly, for those who are on the job hunt, determine what your forté is, the value proposition that sets you apart and above the rest in your field. Then, ensure your personal ‘branding statement’ is both on your resume and a specific focus during interviews. And don’t wait until you are in the new job to start enhancing and furthering your knowledge and ability as it pertains to this strength; do it now!

We all know the importance of branding and selling a product or service, many of us do it for a profession; so make sure and parallel this crucial strategy as it pertains to you in your career which will enhance your value to the company and offer more job security.

Thanks for reading; until next Friday,

Jason Weaver
Executive Search and Placement
Jason@ESandP.net