What is your Unique Selling Point (USP)?

In the last two weeks we have addressed the role of your resume in getting that dream job. The importance of having a good resume cannot be over-emphasized because that is your first contact with the employer. The truth is, a lot of resumes are turned down in 10 seconds flat! You need to have your resume stand out, and be noticed by the employer. Your resume must catch the attention of the employer right away. The question is; what is your unique selling point?

A major tool to market your unique selling point is your cover letter.
Cover letters are still important today, and should be sent along with your resume In your cover letter, begin with a powerful first paragraph about yourself. Have this action paragraph relate to the job at hand. Sum up your job relevant experience, your strengths that are relevant to the job, skills and accomplishments. Sell yourself quickly in the first paragraph of your cover letter. Your cover letter should be only one page in length. At the end of your cover letter, add your telephone number and your email address. This way, your telephone number and your email address will be right at hand for the employer - in the first lines of your resume, and in the last lines of your cover letter.

Having scaled through the first selection stage and you are invited for an interview, this is another opportunity to pitch yourself as the applicant of choice to the employer. Always remember; first impressions are very important. An interviewer usually forms an impression of you in less than five minutes. Make that impression a favorable one, and a memorable one. Address your strengths, the ones that show you are an excellent fit for the job and the company.
When the interviewer asks you to talk about yourself, favorably sum up your strengths and qualifications in 60 seconds or less. Talk about your five best features, the ones that show you are a good fit for the job and the company. Select selling points that state that you would be able to fulfill the company's needs. State your qualifications with confidence. Also, maintain good eye contact with the interviewer. Project yourself as Confident, Capable and Competent

To equip you with skills on how to market your unique selling point, AGDC is organizing a one-month intensive program, commencing on Mach 28 2011, to launch you from a regular graduate to a High Potential Graduate. AGDC High Potential Graduate Program (HIPO) is a management skills development program for recent graduates and young professionals. For enquiries about this program; contact Bolanle on 07029777474.

Remember! There is no second chance to make a good first impression. Always, always, sell your brand; you are a product, pitch yourself as the best and brightest! Till next week, keep on selling Brand YOU!