Did you play with Lego blocks as a kid? (Or, maybe you still do? I have a friend whose brother – an adult – has a house full of Lego structures. He never outgrew his Lego obsession.)

Earlier this week, I shared thoughts about how to break down your job hunt, inspired by a Lego “big apple” I saw while visiting New York City in June. I took another photo during that visit that made me think. This big, faceless, naked Lego guy was in a window.

I couldn’t help but think that this figure represents a lot of job seekers; the ones who are not doing anything to make themselves stand out. The job seekers who believe applying online to hundreds of jobs is the same as a job search strategy. The employee who just does what it takes to get by and doesn’t think about his or her career plans or path.

Take a look at yourself; are you this Lego figure? Indistinguishable from your peers, with nothing significant to attract a hiring manager? If you are plain, it is going to be very difficult to land an opportunity.

Think about what you can do to distinguish yourself. Start here - put some SIZZLE in your job hunt – before summer is over!

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  • http://blog.theresumechick.com Karen F.

    Great post, Miriam! Sometimes it is hard for clients to think about the one or two things that make them stand out among the rest of the Lego crowd…particularly if they think that have not really accomplished a whole lot in their careers. Of course, on occasion, you get a handful of clients who have fulfilled their entire bucket list of achievements, and more! (Where it is hard to whittle down achievements to the top 5…the client just wants all the information in there!) I think though just knowing what you believe to be unique about yourself is always the first step…and you can definitely build up from there. All it takes is just one differentiator!

    Karen, The Resume Chick (on Google or Twitter for questions, comments or violent reactions)

    • http://www.keppiecareers.com Miriam Salpeter

      Karen – I guess the key is making an effort to clearly define what you have to offer as a job seeker. No matter how many accomplishments one has, it is easy to be the Lego guy unless the focus is on showing it. Thanks, as always, for stopping by!