Solve A Problem

Before you take another step in your job hunt, answer this question: "What problem are you trying to solve?"

If there’s not something lacking that you are going to provide, why should an employer want to hire you?

People need to see a problem to be moved.There must be an inciting moment. For me, I saw a need to serve those around me. It was the "why" not the "what."

Seth Godin once described the difference between marketing Aspirin and vitamins. Aspirin, he said, is much easier to sell because it solves a problem - your headache. Vitamins, on the other hand, don’t resolve an immediate, blaring problem. They’re a harder sell.

How can you reframe your application for a specific position as the solution to a problem? When you offer the solution to a problem, employers awaken to your potential.

Your skills, experience and expertise must address a problem. Every employer looking to hire has a problem. Understanding that problem and providing the solution to that problem qualifies you as the best candidate for the employer to hire.

Get Called To The Big Leagues

Chances are if you've tried a few low-risk experiments, you've found your sweet spot and have determined the value you bring to an organization. Don't stop here.

Keep refining, practicing and committing yourself to topping your past performance. Don't wait to be given permission and don't expect any favors.

When the time is right, you'll be called to the big leagues (land a job) and when you do, return the favor by helping those around you achieve their dreams.