Before we create a unique value proposition we must know our unique value! Let’s examine our point of greatest impact.
Our Unique Value
We hear much about a unique value proposition (UVP). It’s that mini-elevator-pitch statement of how we differentiate what we do.
The format for a UVP is: I am (name), I provide (specific product/service) to (target audience) so that (value returned).
Indeed, a UVP crystalizes what we do best into a single, concise statement. For example: the blog Proverbs for Professionals “shares the balanced life with influencers so they can be both wise hearted and wise behaving.”
Find your niche, focus your efforts there, then be intentional making yourself known as the expert in that niche. proverbsforprofessionals.net
Finding Our Unique Value
As powerful as a UVP is, creating one assumes we actually know our unique value. Thus, we’re clear about our point of greatest impact.
However, actually knowing our unique value may be a flawed assumption. Why? Because we may lack clarity about our unique value.
As such, it’s hard to identify a target audience for our content if we’re unclear about what differentiates us. Thus, we need a way of finding our unique value, given our present set of capabilities.
How do we identify unique value? Options for identifying our unique value include:
1). Personal reflection to recognize what works well for us and what doesn’t work well!
2). Taking standardized tests for traits like personality type, reasoning style, and strengths.
3). Getting input from those around us, such as close friends, co-workers, or supervisors.
We have unique value. For an organization it’s a competitive advantage. For individuals, unique value is how we’re most impactful in the lives of others. proverbsforprofessionals.net
Ok, but what else?
In all this reflecting, test taking, and external input don’t overlook the obvious. Which is? That our unique value is one way we impact others.
Thus, consider what we want to be known for. What influence do we desire to have? And, what brings deep, inner satisfaction?
For many, that inner conversation quickly moves past material benefits. Instead, the “What am I compelled to do” conversation leads us to our influence – the practical advice and assistance we offer.
That interpersonal and spiritual connection is of lasting value to us if we’re thinking beyond the immediate and the shallow.
Living With Purpose
Once we move past temporal considerations, we’re open to consider purpose and passion.
Whereas unique value means knowing who we are, identifying purpose pushes us past knowing WHO to identifying WHY. As such, rather than externals like quarterly goals, we’re driven by inner motives related to impact and influence.
It’s not surprising that Solomon discusses influence (“honor”) in Proverbs. What follows are some examples:
In Proverbs 15.33, 22.4 and 29.23, humility is a prerequisite to, or a factor in, our influence. Proverbs 20.3 says addressing conflict successfully brings influence. Leaders gain influence, in part, by getting to the heart of a matter, Proverbs 25.2. Conversely, the foolishly overconfident have no influence, Proverbs 26.1.
Thus, the wisdom literature relates influence to factors such as humility and problem solving.
Pride brings destruction. In contrast, humility brings influence. Proverbs 18.12 paraphrase proverbsforprofessionals.net
Apply This Today!
Truly, our point of greatest impact is guided by personal desire. We choose where we want to impact others, then we pursue that capability.
Influence isn’t limited to our current capability. We can identify an area for growth that enables us, in the future, to become more influential.
When we live with purpose, on purpose, we’re deliberate about influencing others.
A Question to Consider
What personal traits drive how you define your unique value?
I’m Dale Young. My posts share the balanced life to build wise character and guide wise behavior.
To interact with me, use the links in the Contact Me tab of this blog.
