Transform What May Seem Like a Flaw into an Asset

By Sandy Prock M.Ed., JCTC, www.ExpertResume.com

Turn what you or someone else may have labeled a flaw into an asset.

I recently read an article in Harvard Business Review. The author talked about how what could have looked like a flaw for a hotel that had no air conditioning and with bugs flying around turned into an asset because they were “eco” friendly, attracting customers who preferred no air conditioning and bugs to overuse of energy and pesticides. The HBR article was talking about turning perceived flaws into assets.

Why not do that for yourself? Let’s look at a few skills, or attitudes where you could turn a perceived flaw into an asset.

• Radical – reframe “radical” as adventurous, willing to take risks and open to new ideas, breaking new ground. Nothing new is born without growing pains. Sometimes others perceive new ideas as “radical.”

• Cautious – reframe “cautious” as the ability to be meticulous and research before making what could be a rash decision. Leonardo Da Vinci was meticulous.

• Demanding – reframe “demanding” as the ability to set and achieve high standards - drawing the best out in the company and yourself.

• Non-communicative – reframe “non-communicative” as being observant with great listening skills, seeing and perceiving things others miss.

• Confrontational – reframe “confrontational” as willingness to meet problems head on and find workable, mutually respectful solutions.

• Perfectionism – reframe “perfectionism” as the ability to exercise accountability with conscientious, detail-oriented persistence and great follow through.

I am sure you are getting the idea. Take some time to sit down and write down all your assets, and include any skill or attitude that you or someone else may have mislabeled as a flaw. Re-think and re-imagine any perceived flaw as an asset. Turn a flaw into an asset.

Yes, it is important to learn from our mistakes. However, sometimes we are mislabeled. It is important to reframe a false negative label. Put it in it in alternative positive light.

Companies are hiring again, make sure you shine brightly, Make sure you, your resume and cover letter rise to the top of the pile. Make sure your job search documents are top of the line! We wish you the best in your job search!

If you have any questions about your resume or cover letter, or other job search documents, feel free to call Bob. Check out our main website or email Bob at expertresume@yahoo.com

Sandy Prock M.Ed. (Masters Degree in Education – Vocational Guidance and Counseling), JCTC (Job and Transition Coach), www.ExpertResume.com