What is unique about you? How are you distinct? The answer to these questions will help you zero in on your differentiation. Most people struggle describing and communicating their point of differentiation. However, it’s important to communicate this since it positions you as an expert in a particular area.
As a result, you become a valuable resource that people, within your company, call upon. Think of differentiation this way, it’s what you do when you do what you do. What I mean by this statement is it’s not about the actual work you do that differentiates you but rather your style and approach as you do your job. It’s these unique qualities or traits that sets you apart and differentiates you from others with which you work. How you differentiate yourself determines where you add value to your role, on your team, in your department and overall in your organization.
It’s essential to give this some thought and ensure you are positioning yourself in situations where you can add the greatest value. Maybe you’re really good at solving complex problems. Or adept at bringing disparate people together. Or maybe it’s the ability to see patterns emerge where others may not. Whatever it is, think about what you do that differentiates you. Try this fill in the blank exercise:
I differentiate myself when I ____________.
This shouldn’t be overly complicated, keep it simple. What is one way you differentiate yourself today? Focus on the things you already do and do with ease. Now share this with people on your team or in your department and get feedback. Ask if this is what they would say about you. Once you’ve gotten feedback and validation, it’s important to leverage this in all of your interactions. Armed with this statement you can let people know how you can best help them and when they can leverage your unique approach. This simple statement will help position your point of differentiation and set you apart from your colleagues in the areas where you add the greatest value to your organization. How do you differentiate yourself and add value in your job?
Sage Alliance, a Leadership Performance Company, provides coaching, teambuilding and assessments, workshops and speaking on topics including; leadership development, empowering teams, communications, lasting impressions, personal branding and building a coaching culture for executives and high-potentials – for both team and individual leaders.
Contact us today to discover how your organization can get the most through improved productivity, efficiency and direct impact to your bottom line, while leaders gain powerful insight, crystallize opportunities for growth and fine tune their strengths, enabling them to make the greatest impact. You can contact Shelley Hammell directly at shammell@thesagealliance.com.