Are you active and fully invested in your effort to discover the right livelihood? Right work can mean many things—a traditional job, a new career, re-entering the workplace or working as an entrepreneur. Regardless of the direction you choose, you’ll increase your probability of success if you present and promote the authentic you.

“Being authentic” is a much overused phrase these days—at first glance, it doesn’t mean a lot. It’s sadly become one of those hackneyed, commercialized expressions. But peel back the fluff. What remains at its essence is a real golden nugget of wisdom. Present yourself as the original you are. Be genuine and act in alignment with your core values, skills, talents and preferences.

Authenticity sometimes goes missing in the work search. We do a lot of second-guessing as to what we think a recruiter is looking for and then try to conform to those assumptions. If you can imagine yourself on their side of the desk for a moment—you, too, would soon tire of the templates, the cookie cutter resumes, the canned responses to your questions. You wouldn’t want to meet a bunch of walking facsimiles.

For you, the job seeker, there are definite disadvantages to not using a more creative strategy. It’s disingenuous, transparent and does not reflect your true capabilities. And it doesn’t give you (and the recruiter) any basis on which to realistically evaluate the opportunity to see if it’s a good fit for you both.

Dare to break out with fresh approaches.

1.  Be creative in your thinking.

How do you convincingly present your points of difference, your distinctiveness? You bring a truly unique skill set and rich, relevant experience. Proudly demonstrate your capabilities, leadership qualities and quantifiable contributions. Dare to break the mold of sameness. Here’s a great image to keep in mind…

You’ll remember the stunning Apple ad “1984” that aired during Super Bowl XVIII to introduce the Macintosh. As a means of saving humanity from “conformity,” the heroine hurls a hammer towards the screen showing “Big Brother.” The narrative: “On January 24th, Apple Computer will introduce Macintosh. And you’ll see why 1984 won’t be like 1984. ”

Be innovative. Present yourself to your best advantage in the marketplace.

2.  Be memorable.

This is the time to show your differentiation. Let your marketing materials, in-person meetings and consistent follow-up distinguish you from others in the marketplace. Avoid worn-out clichés in your marketing messages. Let your energy and keen engagement in your industry show. Why downplay your sincere interest and your competence?

Don’t sacrifice opportunity. Be authentic. Showcase your capabilities as you seek to find the right work.

To be authentic literally means to be your own author. -Dan Millman

Today’s question

Do you think that you’re presenting yourself to your best advantage in the marketplace?