Differentiate Yourself to Win

Happy New Year, and welcome to 2011. The U.S. economy continues a slow rebound, but the general consensus is that the recovery won’t be truly complete until the unemployment rate is reduced to a healthier (lower) level. For many companies, a new calendar year brings shiny new budgets and staffing plans. People return from their winter holidays ready to tackle a whole new set of challenges…and they may need you!

Job hunting today is a very competitive activity. So many qualified people are looking for good positions. Tension is high for those who have been unemployed for any length of time. It’s a “buyer’s market” right now, and employers can be choosy to make sure they hire the right people.

A friend of mine is currently competing with three other finalists being considered for an attractive position. They have been asked to prepare a presentation for the management team of the hiring company. Although the situation is a little nerve-wracking, she has been given a great opportunity to differentiate herself from the other candidates.

If you are up against multiple candidates, what might you do to differentiate yourself?

• Research, research, research the hiring company. Scour their website, the annual reports (for a publicly-traded company), blogs, reviews, and product descriptions. If your network contains anyone already employed by the company, take them to lunch and pick their brain. Use the information you gather to insert knowledgeable commentary during your interview(s), and to ask informed and insightful questions.

• If asked to do a presentation, don’t just do a boring PowerPoint presentation with a bunch of bullets that you read! Try something different, such as all graphics as a mere backdrop for you (which is where you want them to focus their attention anyway). Or introduce yourself using another presentation product, like Animoto (animoto.com), where you can create a free 30-second presentation with original music and photos you choose. It’s easy, and different.

• Think about ways to showcase your unique personality. You want to draw people to you so they can imagine how pleasant it would be to have you around. Tell an engaging story, spice up your interview suit with a colorful tie or scarf. Don’t forget to smile! Appearing too serious, or even grim, can be a real turn-off.

• Be sure to tell your prospective employers how excited you are about the opportunity, that you appreciate their time, and that you really want the job. They have the gift of employment to give, and expect a little appreciation and enthusiasm.

• Follow up any face-to-face interaction with a “Thank You” communication. Hand-written notes are still always appropriate, and I personally don’t think there’s anything wrong with a creative digital thank you sent via email.

Good luck, and keep your chin up! There’s a good job out there for you.