Discovering your unique value proposition (UVP)

It can be much easier to think about our interests, past work experiences, travels, and personality traits — rather than the inherent values that shape them.

We all have values that ultimately shape our behaviours, choices, and skills.

The key is to determine what those are and how they drive us.

For example, I enjoy entrepreneurship because I value freedom. I enjoy writing because I value truth. And I enjoy collaboration because I value belonging.

There is almost always a value beneath your behaviour, and this value will likely drive your thinking. When it comes to careers, your values have likely shaped your choices when it came down to employment, personal finances, and interpersonal relationships. This is your “why” behind the decisions you’ve made in life.

When it comes to your UVP and applying for full-time roles, think about how this job will fit into your larger goals in life. Don’t make it your sole purpose and source of worth. You should have a UVP for your income sources, and a UVP for your life.

The UVP for your job should serve a specific purpose: to excel, learn, and grow there. Your job should serve your life UVP — not the other way around.

A job helps you build towards the life you want to live.