The Game Changer? YOU & Your Differentiators!
Lynn Ferrari, GPHR
Do you need to unlock your team's full potential, optimize business performance, or solve a one-off problem? Know the status quo isn’t winning and need to make a change? Welcome! You’re in the right place.
Every day we make choices between nearly identical options. Hiring managers face the same dilemma—deciding among equally viable candidates. It’s the candidates’ differentiators that inform and ultimately determine the hiring manager’s choice.
The Reality
The labor market is tough, even in the best of times. Companies need game-changing professionals who bring more than just skills—they need the unique qualities that set you apart. In today’s social media-driven world, where everyone has a voice, standing out is essential. Owning your differentiators, and acting accordingly, both makes you the obvious choice and enables you to elevate any role. Think Olympics—fractions of a second decide the gold. Every athlete is exceptional, but only one wins. The same goes for hiring.
What’s Your Edge?
When I ask my coaching clients, “What sets your differentiator?” I often get a blank stare—not because they lack exceptional qualities, but because we are not typically taught to own our brilliance. We’re conditioned to downplay our strengths, and society tells us self-promotion is boastful.? Yet, if you cannot confidently articulate what makes you stand out, how can anyone else? ??
So, what are your differentiators?
How to Define Your Differentiators
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Bringing It All Together
Once you’ve nailed down your differentiators, write them out. This isn’t just about having a list; it’s about transforming those words into a compelling story that feels authentic and powerful. Practice talking about them—seriously! Out loud, in the mirror, with friends. Make it second nature to speak your truth with confidence and clarity.
And finally, know the basics. Tailor your résumé to the job posting, including every key skill and keyword. Step one is getting past the algorithm—your unique strengths can’t stand out if you don’t the interview.
The Bottom Line
You may not be asked, “What differentiates you?” directly. But you will usually be asked, “What are your strengths…Why should we choose you … Do you have anything to add?” ?Your ability to pivot your narrative to these questions and highlight your unique qualities can be the deciding factor between being seen as a contender or the clear winner.
Your distinctive traits aren’t just bullet points on a résumé; they’re the fuel for your career’s rocket launch. Acknowledge them. Highlight them. Lean into them with everything you’ve got! Because it’s not just about getting the job—it’s about making the impact only you can deliver.
Now, get out there and be unforgettable. Because that’s what true differentiation is all about.
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??Co-founder of Omada | Entrepreneur | Conscious Leader | Embodied Human | Registered Yoga Teacher | Guide | Human Design Practitioner | Life Purpose Follower
1 个月Keep sharing - these are powerful tools that can and will really help people stand out!
Chief Growth Officer I Strategic Partnerships | Data & Analytics | Digital Innovation | Chief Revenue Officer | E-Commerce | Executive Leadership
1 个月There has NEVER been a time where standing out has been more critical IMHO the old tried and tried standards will get you nowhere. In fact, today’s technology works against you. I also believe it’s a team effort and not something you can do alone and like everything else we do picking the right SME is critical and working with someone like Lynn Ferrari, GPHR is the right, reasonable choice given her invaluable experience, contacts and can DO attitude!!
I partner with women hitting the glass/bamboo ceiling to take control of their careers and succeed on their terms. Executive Coach for Underrepresented Women in Tech. On a mission to create more seats at the table.
1 个月Love this Lynn! These are powerful tools
Senior copywriter
1 个月A great, thought-provoking read, Lynn! Loved this question, especially: "What’s that unique quality that defines you; the one you're unmistakably known for?"