How to sell yourself, applying Richard Branson's 5 key elements to pitching

Having recently read a recent article by Virgin Group Founder Richard Branson, I thought it might be interesting to apply his 5 key elements on how to pitch to selling yourself as a candidate for a job:

1. What’s in it for them?

Branson informs us that any entrepreneur that is hoping to launch their first business often neglects to put much thought into the concept and this can therefore lead the investor to feel that they “lack clarity in the proposed deal.” What we can take from this from the perspective of a candidate pitching for a job? Remembering that you need to be specific in how you are selling your skills: “I have experience from X,Y and Z company undertaking skill X. Here is an example…” Being specific enables the employer to not only understand your abilities, but also to assess your transferability to their specific role. It is then that they realize what is in it for them. Your skills can be an asset to their company.

2. Be Clear

In a business sense, being clear according to Branson means “demonstrating a knowledge of your concept or industry and laying out a step-by-step plan.” This is excellent advice for job seekers. Be clear on what you have done and what you hope to gain from the position you are applying for. Tell the interviewer a story: “I single-handedly handled the compliance project for X company, whilst doing this I encountered an issue, I overcame the issue by…this meant that going forward..” This shows them in a very straightforward manner you have previous experience, encountered and issue, resolved and learnt from it. Sold.

3. Demonstrate smart disruption

Branson tells us that this means emphatically explaining how your new company can give the customer a better deal than competitors. In the employee/employee situation, demonstrate exactly why they should hire you over any other candidate. What makes you different?

4. Plan for sustainable growth

“explain how to tackle inevitable technological changes and market shifts that are heading your way” he tells us. In a situation where you are on the job hunt, plan for sustainable growth by keeping up to date with the latest technological changes and market shifts personally. Enroll on courses, volunteer, keep up to date with the latest news and market developments in your field. Don’t get left behind. The longer you are out of a role, can often meant he harder it is to secure your next role – why not bridge the gap, keep your skills up to date?

5. Show your strengths

Showing perspective investors that you have the right people working in your new company is the key to pitching according to Branson. This goes without saying, when selling yourself as a candidate – you have to show your strengths! It never amazes me how many times in interviews, candidates openly provide their weaknesses or explain the skills that they do not have rather than truly selling with a passion, the skills they do have or even the transferrable skills they have. Be your own cheerleader!

Selling does not come easy for everyone, but if you plan and deliver with confidence your audience will be receptive. Whether you are selling an inanimate object or your own skills and experience. Set yourself an objective. What do I want to achieve from this?

See more on Richard Branson’s “how to pitch in 5 steps here: http://www.virgin.com/entrepreneur/richard-branson-how-pitch-5-steps

This blog was written by Chelsea Flynn, Staffing Coordinator at SteppingStones Recruitment Ltd. For our latest jobs visit our website: https://www.steppingstonescayman.com/