Derek Bobo's Blog

What makes you different from the next guy? We see companies claim to have the lowest prices, the best quality, or the best service, but they don’t mean shit. You find a product you want to buy and then find it lower at another store, you take an item home to have it fall apart that same day, or you call support and are greeted by an automated recording. We see it everyday.

Whether you’re starting your first business or already own a business ask yourself what you stand for. What makes you different than the competitor? If you can’t validate it with something real and tangible then you have some searching to do. Make your business mean something and stick to it. You’ll be surprised how customers respond.

Does your business pass the test? Prove it!

I’m sure my dad can’t take credit for coming up with this quote, but I originally heard it from him:

“We never have time to do it right, but we always have time to do it again.”

So so true.

Whether you’re a recent grad, making a career change, or just in the hunt for a new job, make sure you keep things in focus. With the economy still struggling the unemployed are sometimes just happy to have a job – any job.

The best advice I can give someone in the job hunt is to relax and stay focused. While you certainly want to present your best self, don’t forget the fact that you’re interviewing the interviewer as well. Interviews are a time for you to assess a company and those you will potentially be working with. If the environment is not one that aligns with your interests or personality don’t kid yourself, it’s not going to work.

You’re going to save yourself a lot of heartache if you adopt this attitude. You’ll be less nervous about impressing the interviewer(s)  and you’ll be setting the right expectation for what to expect if you are hired. If you’re not real it will eventually become obvious or if you accept a position that does not fit will with your interests you’re going to end up disappointed and back in the job hunt again.

I’ve found that having this attitude exhibits a level of confidence which is something that naturally attracts folks to you. It’s always been my approach to be up front with people. It’s going to show the real you and if that’s not something an employer can appreciate, it’s not an employer you want to work for.