Looking for new ideas to compete and succeed in the job market?

Job hunters having little or no success in convincing future employers they are the most qualified person in the applicant pool should consider out of the box strategies. Creative thinking will challenge negative responses and allow you to see new windows of opportunity.

The first creative step is to put a stop to old messages and tapes that limit hole your approach. A new identity must take on the reality you are capable of being self-employed. Receiving a paycheck from the antiquated graduation to retirement mentality has been replaced by shifting markets and changes in employer needs. To remain an active player in the revolving door job market, you must be learn you are a valuable commodity able to return high yields in the present and the future. Realign your thinking so that you as a self employed individual is the CEO of Me Incorporated. Your tag line reads, My Skills Are Valuable And Always Contribute To Profitability. Your experiences and achievements, acquired over many years, are a perfect mix of services and product that many companies will consider valuable. Your method of advertising - a proposal.

Stephen Barnet, PhD, White Knight Consulting in Boca Raton, said, “writing a proposal is an interesting way to get a job. I know I would respond if someone took the time to write a proposal reflecting their knowledge about the company and its needs.” Barnett suggests that anyone going this route should be to the point, concise, and demonstrate in writing the ability to deal with quantative information. A proposal should offer a plan to fill a gap; and, should be written to persuade the readers to do something.

• Use research to cite examples or evidence that you understand the company’s business problems or needs. Know who or what may be hindering their progress in market share or credibility in the industry.

• Define and use specific skills that will address solving a problem and produce positive business results.

• Provide examples of past achievements that serve as evidence of your ability to deliver what they are looking for.

• Include a closing statement that includes a compelling reason for the company to hire you as an employee, as a contract project manager, or as a consultant.

Companies, like people, buy goods or services to come across solutions to critical problems; or, who look for a way to deal with difficult issues. Your proposal should let them know you can make a difference.

A proposal can also work after an interview or an informational meeting.

Using this technique adds visibility and specifically addresses the contributions you can make. After an interview, you will have a better understanding of a company, their issues and the name of someone who can give a green light to your creative follow-up. A proposal is a way to get back into the door after your initial visit. Proposals should highlight your value to the organization; present new ideas previously not discussed, and demonstrate your initiative to do what you said you could do in the interview. The proposal can be sent formally or in an email. Think about the best way to reach the decision makers and how they will best share your proposals with others in the company.

If you have already been told you do not fit an organization’s job description, a proposal sent to a hiring manager may be an incentive for the company to reconsider your candidacy. Even if you still do not receive an offer, your attempt will leave a more favorable impression for future openings. Equally, it can turn into a networking advantage.

Turndowns tend to stall job search momentum. Writing proposals, including areas in which you excel, serves as a self-esteem builder so that a negative response doesn’t allow you to sink into negative thinking. Researching new venues and writing proposals are meaningful activities that will keep you from the self-destructing thoughts . . ."I'm out of work or, I have nothing to do, no one wants me.” Damage control of self-worth is critical. Employers want to hire upbeat and positive people.

Dale Kurow, MS, Career Coach, New York City, says, “a proposal written to identified targets is a great way to move ahead of the competition. It is much like a cover letter or a follow up letter that refines the requirements of a position and emphasizes how your skills and achievements meet employers needs.”

Kurow tells the story about a client who wanted to change her career in sales from the children’s apparel industry to the wine industry. Using on line resources, she gathered names of wine companies that were advantageously located, but she had no networking contacts. Thinking outside the box, she went into a local wine shop, found a bottle of wine that was distributed in her area, and asked the shopkeeper if he knew anything about the wine and the company. From the vendor, she received the information she needed about the company and, the name of a decision maker. Writing a proposal that showcased her experience, and how she would increase wine sales, resulted in an interview and an on-the-spot offer.

Climbing out of the box of traditional job search activities, putting the spotlight on you as a problem solver, may be all you need to turn a proposal into a commitment for your future.