Latinos: Making Your Mark: How to Stand Out in Life & Business

Imagine walking into the reception area of the company you've dreamed of working for to interview with executives. You look around and find 20 other candidates already sitting there, dressed like you, as qualified as you, and are there for the same purpose. The competition is fierce, and you know it. How will you be different from everybody else? This is a question everyone must face.


There are hundreds of people out there who do what you do and want the job you want. So, how do you stand out? No doubt, you've heard typical advice, things like "look people in the eye when you speak to them," or "have a firm handshake." And while all that is true, I'm about to share with you ways you can change the game, bring more of yourself to the table, and use your humanity to take you further in your profession.


Early in my career in indie filmmaking I quickly figured out that it's not always who you know, but how you treat people-a concept I like to call "people relations." It paid off for me in several ways.


I can tell you that, in my 1o-plus years of experience as an entrepreneur, I've worked hard to cultivate a successful business and strong reputation. I accomplished this by consistently treating everyone well, nurturing relationships, and of course delivering excellence in my field. It's because I extend respect and courtesy that I have landed opportunities.


Along the way I have also recognized several key qualities that I personally practice and that never fail to grab my attention. Here are five of my favorites that can nudge you a few steps closer than the rest to nailing that new job.


1. Understand That Everyone Wears a Game Face


People have a lot going on, at work, at home, and constantly in their minds. So many of us are stressed out, overloaded, and juggling a million things at once. And sometimes, to be honest, we don't always handle that too well. Just as you may have a lot on your mind that is difficult to deal with, the people you work with might be struggling with some emotional challenge. Set yourself apart by being mindful and sensitive to that, and try to be as helpful as possible as you move throughout your days.


2. Develop Your Relationships


If you meet, or want to meet people that you would like to work with, reach out to them and maintain that relationship by adding a personal touch. Pass along articles that may be of interest to them along with the message "I thought you might find the enclosed of interest" and include your name, mailing and email addresses, and phone number; send them notes to say "hello," "congratulations," or to compliment them on a recent activity you may have heard or saw that they did. This kind of extra effort goes a long way toward distinguishing yourself in a positive way. Do Not -- I repeat -- do not reach out to people only when you want or need something.


3. Take Notice of an Interest and Address It


When you are engaged in a conversation with someone, pay close attention to them. Try to pick up on little details such as whether or not they seem to be an organized person, if their office shows signs that they are a fan of a particular sports team, if they prefer a specific type of music, or maybe they're interested a certain kind of art, and remember it. Some time after your first meeting, you can get your other foot in their door by finding a thoughtful way to address their interest. There are so many little things you can do that give you a big opportunity to stand out.


4. Remember That Everyone Is Somebody


A person's position in life should have nothing to do with how you treat them. What goes around comes around. It's the law of the universe. If you acknowledge and show the same level courtesy and respect to everyone you encounter-from the janitor to the receptionist to the CEO-you will develop a reputation as a solid person to work with and build a loyal following of all kinds of people. They won't hesitate to assist you in gaining access to people and resources that can further advance your professional endeavors.


5. Show 'Em What You've Got


Once you get the chance to make an impression and your mark, make it wonderful. Part of one of my favorite quotes by Nelson Mandela says "Who am I to be brilliant, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? Your playing small doesn't serve the world." And serve you must. You've come a long way, put in your study time, and begin honing your craft. Now is the time to strut your stuff. Don't be afraid to lead and succeed. Boldly show your colleagues why you're worthy of their time and investment. That's what businesses are looking for: someone who is not only qualified, but real and has the confidence and willingness to work hard, go the extra mile, and bring their best to the company.


So there you have it: empowering information that can give you an edge in life and business. And now that you know, I trust that you will actually put it to regular use. Because that's the key-being consistent. I know you will. Just remember that the little things can and do make a big difference in your life, career and goals!


Know that all the positive energy you put out there will find its way back to you. Now, step into your great name, go get that job, and build your career. It's your time to shine! Stay strong.





Oh.....


How to Full in the gap in Employment?

Workers who have been out of the work force for a while -- especially those who have been caring for children or parents -- worry about how to explain their job history gaps.

They're right to be concerned if they have done nothing except tend to their families.

Caregiving is certainly noble and needed labor (and let's pause on Mother's Day to say thanks for mothers' work, particularly), but the reality is that prospective employers may want to see more measurable accomplishments.

A long employment gap, whatever the family-oriented reason, won't be as worrisome if:

--You've taken a computer class or earned a certification update in your field.

--You have kept alive a network of business contacts from your previous places of employment. Perhaps you've even continued to attend professional association meetings in your field.

--You have done notable volunteer work that has produced "deliverables," such as managing a PTA fundraising project.

--Your resume clearly shows how your volunteer work translates into needed workplace skills, such as showing your leadership or conflict resolution abilities drawn upon while president of that PTA.

--You have a marketable skill and you know how to target your applications to reach employers who need that skill.

--You've kept up to date with current affairs and you can hold a good conversation in an interview.

--Your resume shows a pre-work-break progression of responsibilities and advancements in a field that's still growing and needs workers.

--You have friends, relatives, neighbors and acquaintances who will advocate for you in their workplaces.

--You can pull off an updated and energetic appearance (hair, makeup, clothing and posture) in your interviews.

--You project a positive, enthusiastic attitude.