The other night, my wife handed me a few pages torn from her Real Simple magazine. They contained a column titled “Dare to Be Different,” by life coach Gail Blanke. In her column, Gail cites the case of Jamie, whose attribute of being opinionated won her a job with an advertising agency that was working on a controversial campaign “designed to set a whole industry on its ear.”
While reading, I couldn’t help but think of my recent post on hidden assets, especially since Gail’s column reinforced the idea that it is our unique qualities that make us stand out. This is an idea that is taking on greater significance. In fact, the whole notion of differentiation, using personal branding, is covered in the forthcoming Career Distinction: Stand Out by Building Your Brand by Kirsten Dixson and William Arruda, principals of the Reach Branding Club.
Understanding this is critical.
In today’s organizations, there is power in authenticity. So, if you are at mid-life and want to continue to be successful in your current career, or successfully start a new one, standing out is essential. As William Arruda has pointed out, professions have become commoditized. So, for example, what is it that sets one advertising professional apart from another, if not for the unique attributes that he or she brings to the job?
Of course, I believe that personal distinction goes beyond career. Realizing your uniqueness is a life quest for your personal legend –much like the fictional quest in the popular fable, The Alchemist. Discovering and being who you uniquely are is giving the gift your talents and perspectives – or unique promise of value – to your employer, your family, your friends, and your community.
So, at whatever stage you are in your life or career, be uniquely you. Own your life.
Contact me if you want to work on discovering the attributes that make you stand out.
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