Your value proposition is a series of statements defining your
worth. It is the value you bring to the table – the skills,
strengths, core competencies, marketable assets and
accomplishments you can declare as your own. Your value
proposition describes your uniqueness - your unique gifts. It is
what differentiates you from the crowd.
Think about some of the statements you can make about yourself
that reflect the skills, strengths and competencies you possess.
What makes you uniquely you? What is your value, your worth?
Begin to jot down some ideas. You might want to ask someone who
knows you well what values they see in you. You may be surprised
by what they say. Then begin to formulate the best way of
stating this.
Your value proposition is the cornerstone for all
self-introductory communication. It sets the tone. It’s how you
make your mark. It is how you describe yourself when you are
networking, when you are conducting an exploratory meeting with
senior management, and when you are interviewing.
Your value proposition should be used as your primary response
whenever you are asked these types of questions: • So tell me
about yourself? • How are you different from every other
candidate? • Why should I consider you for this position? • How
do you know you can do the job? • Why do I want to get to know
you better?
Your value proposition also becomes an integral part of your
resume. It is placed at the top, so it sets the tone. It holds
tremendous weight as a differentiating tool, swiftly setting
you, and your resume, apart from the rest.
There is a fundamental difference between your value proposition
and your areas of expertise. Your areas of expertise pertain to
what you have done, the experiences you have gained over the
years. Your value proposition reflects who you are, the unique
gifts you possess. It is who you are which best describes to an
employer how you would accomplish the specific responsibilities
of the position offered.
As an example, let’s say you gained experience in a cash flow /
cash management, or Treasury, type of function. As part of this
position, you also gained experience working with bank
executives, establishing important relationships with key
personnel. These would be areas of expertise. Let’s say that as
part of your uniqueness, or worth, you have great macro-vision,
which is the ability to see the big picture. You also have an
unusual ability to communicate which allows you to quickly
initiate critical relationships with high-level executives.
These abilities are part of your value proposition. It is your
macro-vision and unusual ability to communicate that describe
how you would fulfill a position as Treasurer.
Incorporating your value proposition in every aspect of your job
search will set you apart and significantly improve your
competitive stance in the job market. You will find your next
job faster and be in position to receive a much stronger
compensation package. It is critical to your success.
Copyright © 2005 TopDog Group All rights reserved.
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