Late to the Party

Late to this party!

But I promise you I am bringing along an inspiring guest …. Say hello to authenticity! The welcome attraction at any event.

Under grad college applications loom large this month, and grad school deadlines are just around the corner, but if you too, are late to this particular application party, below are a few things to consider.

Authenticity in an application or cover letter is your secret sauce.

There is something so humanly good about honesty and authenticity. It easily has the ability to draw people in, and keep them there a while.

So many appealing adjectives come to mind when you are describing a potential college admit, a grad student applicant, or a new hire at a growing company who demonstrates this authenticity – trust, warmth, vulnerability, ability to be humble, and someone who is open to name just a few.

So whether you are pushing through on finishing your grad school or under grad college essay, or you are drafting your cover letter for a newly sought after job/position, place authenticity at the center of your writing 

No more second guessing what employers or college admissions want, no more playing games or try and thread the needle of what’s current or trending - just simple, honest authenticity.

So next the question becomes, how do you go about genuinely “showing” this coveted trait in what feels like such a high stakes, competitive endeavor?

Here’s my best (researched) guess when it comes to captivating essays, applications, and even interviews:

• Tell a real story

• Be original & refreshing – Don’t be afraid to take your writing down the “road less traveled” - Show some vulnerability

• Surprise the reader

• Show vulnerability (and your humble ability to learn)

• Be a risk taker even if the outcome may not fall your way