If managing your career were an Olympic Event, would you know how to compete? Part II.

What does it take to "stand out" ...to get a gold or silver or bronze?

In my workshops and job search teams, I have the privilege of meeting many diverse people in job search. No matter what their educational level, professional status, job identity or age, it’s clear that some are stronger contenders than others. This post addresses the last four of the eight Olympic Medal Winner characteristics identified in a previous post.

Study the environment (the slopes, ice composition, etc.)The strong contenders in a highly competitive job search do their homework. Before networking events, resume submissions, information meetings and job interviews, they research the organization, the individual, the topic, the industry. They ask intelligent questions, name trends, identify commonalities and provide solutions to problems. They know whether to say “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Hanukah”. 

use the best tools (skis, snowboards)  The strong contenders in job search create a customized resume for each job opportunity – designed for that specific organization. The Marketing Plan is focused and designed to elicit helpful information in all networking meetings and events. They are dressed for success wherever they go; they practice and prepare vigorously.

be distinctive - perhaps in style, personality, history, experience Did you notice who stood out at the Winter Olympics? Even among the winners, some got more media coverage than other. In Job Search, the heavy contender has spent time identifying unique qualities, demonstrated strengths and life assets. These are displayed in the Unique Value Proposition (see earlier post), the Resume, the LinkedIn Profile, a Blog, Articles, etc.

be supported by others committed to your goals Behind every medal winner at the Winter Olympics were families and friends that believed in the goals of the contender. This support is just as important in career transitions. Family, associates, former colleagues and friends can all be a great help, but there is nothing as helpful as a peer group of selected members. This might be in the form of a job search team, a self-initiated advisory board, a selected professional development group. Having someone to meet with on a weekly basis to share ideas, provide resources and offer encouragement can make all the difference. No one wins an Olympic Medal alone!