Stand Out 101

I received an interesting question recently. Someone wrote me asking how they can stand out from the crowd. Well, this is a pretty broad question. I am assuming this person was referring to their professional career. I thought about this long and hard and I do have some answers.

If you want to stand out professionally then make sure to be involved with people. You want to be part of a group in order to stand out from the group. Start by thanking people for answering questions, listening to stories you rather ignore, liking their social media updates, etc. By becoming an alliance in a group, you position yourself for further networking opportunities in which you can later shine.

Once up build up your network of people (see above), understand the Devil is in the details. If you send a thank you card to someone, include a Starbucks gift card – even if it is for five dollars. Find small ways to make mundane tasks extra special. Your signature should be remembering small details people tell you at parties, in emails, etc. so use whatever app you can to track this information and apply it later.

Also, be a giver. In order to standout, you have to give time, money and support to others. So, when these opportunities come across your desk- don’t hesitate, take them! I promise you they will pay off in the long run. People will think of the nice thing you did for them or their organization and this will also make you stand out!

Until Monday,

Twyla N. Garrett