Our aspirations aren’t always realised, although sometimes that’s out of our control. I recognise the emotional rollercoaster of redundancy and transition, not to mention its impact on personal confidence. Market forces impact business success (both positively and negatively) as well as personal opportunity. I help clients to be positively outstanding.

When you’re seeking a new role or some additional challenges to add to your portfolio, then you need to stand out. And that’s a challenge for some, particularly those who prefer not to stand out from the crowd. So, first things first. Make a list of the essentials you want from a new role and don’t forget to dream big. It’s important to balance what you want to do at work with what you have to offer and don’t be shy. You own this opportunity.

Consider what you do well and what you can offer a new employer or a group of clients. Reflect on what you value and the skills which you bring. Remember to include all your achievements, then prioritise them according to profile, age or magnitude. Try not to be constrained by what you have contributed so far and think about the things you want to achieve in future. It’s time to own what you have to offer.

You’re beginning to compose your story. Some of the story will become your CV, along with some facts about where you’ve worked, what you’ve learned and how you operate. Now it’s time to practise your story out loud. How many performers (dancers, singers or actors) and athletes do you know who practise only in their head? Answering the question, “what motivates you?” may sound fine in your head or look good written down, although it’s how it’s spoken on the day that matters. The performance is everything.

I inspire my clients to get comfortable with their stories and to tell them in modern, everyday language. I encourage story telling with confidence and a positive focus (let’s not get bogged down in the details of what didn’t work out). This is all about starting positive conversations which influence and persuade. And remember – the best CVs are written when they’re not needed in a few days’ time.

I’m throwing down the gauntlet – when did you last take a long hard look at your CV and put it to the positivity (positive language) test?  It’s time to think achievements, ambition and accountability rather than responsibility and boredom.  What are your unique selling points?  Is your CV convincing and influential.  What can you change?

Cue my positive communications soapbox, it’s time to read Positive, Inspirational and Influential.