How to Land the Job

Use your unique selling proposition to stand out from the crowd.

When you search for a job, getting an interview is just the first step – it only makes you one of an unknown number of other applicants. You now need to stand out from that crowd. You can’t assume – or hope – that your skill set is better than theirs. And it may not be. But you can (and should) present yourself as the best candidate, or even persuade the potential employer to tailor the job to your individual talents. In my latest article for Psychology Today I talk about a job seeker’s unique selling proposition (USP) – showing how your unique skill set will benefit the employer.

You can take the time to link your specific credentials to the company’s bottom line and let them know how your USP translates into a good return on investment (ROI). Put the puzzle pieces together for your prospective boss – and you’ll make it easier for the interviewer to envision you in the position. By matching your USP to the job description and corporate value proposition, you’ll illustrate how you will contribute to company growth (music to any hiring manager’s ears).

Jobs have been and will continue to be modified and sometimes even small departments may be restructured, based on talent that emerges in interviews. So it’s in your best interest to position yourself against the bigger picture.

Read on for tips and examples of what you can do to make sure your dream job doesn’t slip through your fingers.