Each semester, I ask students in my “College Success” class at Blue Ridge Community College to answer one question that strikes fear in their hearts: “If I ask you to name three things that you do better than anyone else you know, could you do it?”
Most immediately avert their eyes in the please-don’t-call-on-me mode. I tell them to relax, that they will not be asked to report in front of the class, but that knowing the answer is something that they each had better master.
How are your skills at self-marketing? If you are like most (especially if you are a female over 30), you are probably uncomfortable at the thought of describing your skills.
Maybe you are familiar with this scenario:
A boy approaches his father and says, “Dad, I’m a really great baseball player, aren’t I?”
Dad answers, “You bet, son. You’re the best baseball player on the team!”
A girl asks her mother, “Mom, I’m a really good dancer, aren’t I?”
What does Mom reply? “Don’t brag, dear.”
As parents, caring relatives, educators, neighbors and mentors, we must teach and encourage our young people to brag ... to market their skills. And, with today’s uncertain economy, we had also better practice this ourselves.
It is vital to be able to specifically document, describe and talk about what you have to offer to a company, a business, even a college. Past experience, college majors and a desire to work in a particular field are no longer enough. Employers are seeking specific skills. (Look for a description of the most sought skills in my next column.)
Colleges and universities are not only pursuing students who can successfully handle the curriculum —as evidenced by grades and test scores—but also those who have skills to contribute to the academic community—as demonstrated by involvement in scouting, church, a job, extra-curricular activities, volunteer work or other experiences. The emphasis is on depth of involvement.
A short list showing an ongoing commitment is more impressive than a long list.
And whether applying for college or interviewing for a new job, an applicant is expected to illustrate (not just describe, but illustrate) her/his “passion,” the skills and insights gained and what can be shared.
The need for self-marketing skills does not end with college applications and employment. Anyone who aspires to community appointments, or to serve on governing boards in religious organizations, clubs or service groups must be able to describe his/her skills.
How do you start to identify those skills? Ask! Trusted friends and family will be a good source of knowledge.
Start now to assist young people in identifying their skills and to practice bragging. Does your child make great cookies? Does your niece or nephew have a wonderful voice in the church choir? Did your young neighbor make you feel good by doing a small errand for you? Let each know what skills you see and what he/she has to offer. It is a small effort on your part, but could make a difference.
And ask that dreaded question: “If I ask you to name three, not two, not just one thing that you do better than anyone else you know, could you do it?”
Don’t let them off the hook. Get an answer. It makes no difference how large or how small the skill. The important thing is the identification.
Margee Greenfield owns CollegeBoundDirections in Bridgewater. She has nearly 40 years experience as a college advisor and counselor.
