So much greatness already!
Christiaan van der Ham
A Passionate Professional Networker | Creating Connections Around the World | Loves to Travel; Learning from every Experience
The tourists cross the road enthusiastically. Some don't check their safety as they are keen to see the famous view.?Which famous view? The rice fields in Bali are world-renowned and are a big attraction for many visitors to the Indonesian 'Island of the gods'.?
They walk through some alleys and are excited to see the landscape unfold. The lush green fields look very welcoming. Most tourists grab their phones within seconds. Many record videos and take pictures for the next few minutes. Some die-hards pose as if they are on the next cover of Vogues, waiting until no tourist is in their view. After all, it should be the perfect and unique photo. It's as if no one else ever took this type of picture.?
Okay, that's a bit optimistic because, right behind the photographer (and model), tourists are lining up to take the same photo or video or pose the same way.?
?Whether in Bali or anywhere else, we have all been there. Being excited, taking the photo that sets us apart from anyone else.?In the evening, we share it on our socials, working hard on the hashtags to ensure our content has an impact.?But are our photos genuinely unique? Or do we follow the examples of others, therefore feeling safe and good?
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When profiling yourself and making a name as a professional, we may show the same behaviour.?Many people use exact words and sentences in their professional profiles, CVs, and letters. In name, one tries to distinguish oneself, but it seems so generic in real life, which is a pity. Everyone is unique and has many significant interests and beautiful talents.?
?However, I can often predict the content of CVs and letters.?Sentences such as "I am hardworking" and "I describe myself as flexible and creative" are followed by terms such as "ambitious" and "perfectionist."?But I am pretty sure there are different terms to describe yourself. In this way, you are making a better impact and distinguishing yourself positively from others.?
?The most-named terms are not necessarily wrong. I just encourage you to elaborate on the skills you just mentioned. For example, you mention you are creative, then tell me more about this creativity. Some of you are great designers, and others love writing poetry or designing bags.?
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?Many of my friends love travelling. Some are passionate about the Alps, whereas others love Latin American culture. Again, tell me a little more. Perhaps you have connected your interest to your work already. Many love to know a bit more about the other person.?
Do you have good organizational skills? Perhaps you have already organized family trips or school events.??
?Are you a leader? I am sure you were a member, if not the president, of a student union previously. Tell me more about it!?
?"But I don't know my talents yet."?That's okay! Throughout life, you will get to know yourself better. So don't worry. Just be open to new impressions and question things now and then. Ask your family and friends. They can tell you a lot and provide you with helpful input.??
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Whether you're working on your CV, writing a cover letter, or formulating a short introduction for a networking event, there's no need to copy others just because it looks good.?Instead, go down memory lane. Connect with your interests and hobbies and formulate these for future goals. There is so much greatness about you already —you just need to find out!?