What Is Your Value Proposition

In every aspect of our lives, that involve relationships, we offer a value proposition. Whether good, bad, or indifferent we present an image of importance and self worth. In any case it is as if we are our product, an identifiable brand. Consequently, how others assess our appeal becomes our reputation and associated merit. Too often we internalize an idea of how we think others see us, portraying a pseudo semblance, contradictory to general opinion. Our challenge becomes aligning self evaluations with accepted perceptions of the brand.

‘Everyone is Selling Something’ and it is our responsibility to understand how to best present our product. It is imperative that we strategically manage others’ opinion of us while providing an accurate explanation of ‘what we bring to the table’. According to Neil Rackham, our ‘Value Proposition‘ should come with:

* Capability - what it is you do and how you do it
* Impact - what benefits or difference your capability will make
* Proof - what evidence substantiates your impact
* Cost - the cost (or risk) of your capability and impact

Our value proposition has to be independently evident to our customers. We must be able to define, articulate, and execute it with authentic consistency. Others should be able to easily identify and interpret our position, while measuring its relevance. How do we manage our brand to reflect the values, principles, and identity we want others to understand? What is our story and how do we tell it so that its interpretation clear and precise?

Market research says that eight of ten product launches fail within the first three months. If this is true of tangible commodities, how does this weigh on human capital? The beauty is that, unlike merchandise, we can’t discontinue our personal brand. We are attached to it for LIFE, it is our expressive evidence. Three things to keep in mind:

* Someone is ALWAYS watching- You are on a perpetual interview
* Everyone and Everything matters- Accurately assess TIME and SPACE
* Stand in their shoes- What do they understand about you

Would your family say the things about you that your friends would say? Would your colleagues say the same? Probably not, but that’s OK. The objective is to display truth that you are comfortable with and aligns with your goals. Your value proposition is yours and you dictate its credibility or condemnation. What would they say of your value proposition? Great Selling!