Does this sound like you? When someone asks you “tell me about yourself,” you immediately share your current (or last) title and role.
Or if you’re on a caregiving break, you feel uncomfortable and offer up “what you used to do.”
Too often, we rely on titles, our resume, or others’ expectations to define us. How about trying something new?
What if you let go of how others have cast you and define who you are on your terms?
Take charge of your career and own your whole story. That means owning all of who you are, what you’re excited about now, and what you want to do (which might be different from what you’re doing now!)
Talking about your values, talents, what lights you up, and your WHY - the impact you want to make in the world - opens up new possibilities.
Think about this. When you share what you want to do in this way, it lights you up. It creates excitement, energy, and confidence. It makes it easier for others to help you.
And when you’re brave and share your story with others -- it creates space for others to do the same.
So let go of current and former titles, roles, company affiliations, and credentials and create a career story pitch for who you are now – or where you hope to go if you’re at a career inflection point like returning to the workforce or making a pivot.
Even if you have no intention of making a change, this exercise will help you own your professional background (and future!) while networking, speaking at conferences and meeting new clients. And who doesn’t want to be more succinct and compelling?
Give it a try!
Your Career Story Pitch
Answer the most commonly asked question, “Tell me about yourself,” without stumbling over your words or rambling and losing your audience.
Your career story pitch combines your personal brand, values, skills, and experience with how you want to make an impact.
Step 1
Get clear on your personal brand. What do you want to be known for? What are your values, principles, and talents that you want to share with the world?
Step 2
Share what you really want to do – even if it’s not what you’re doing now. The way to do this is to talk about the impact you want to make – rather than leading with a current or past title or role.
Step 3
Communicate your “why.” When you make your motivation clear, people will be more engaged and want to help. Share a personal story. Your authenticity and the emotions will grab your listener more than facts!
Step 4
Connect what you’ve done in the past with where you want to go in the future. Highlight 1-2 accomplishments that show you can solve problems and bring positive change in your intended field (and if you have metrics to show for it – even better!)
Step 5
End your story with a call to action so your listener or reader understands how to help, whether you’re looking for input, a Zoom/coffee meetup, or a connection with someone in their network.
•••••••• Ready to get the support you need for a successful career reinvention in midlife? We’ve got you covered! We want to hear your career story!
Sign up for a 1:1 Discovery Session with EvolveMe co-founders.
We want more for you!
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