We have all heard the term “think outside the box”. I actually hate that term; it has been so overused that it has lost its “oomph” power to motivate people. While I do not disagree with the idea of the phrase, I believe there are many ways to think inside the box and still make a bold statement. How do you do this you ask? Simple, rather than thinking “outside” the box just create a new box.

When you eventually begin thinking hard about that future job and potential employer you will no doubt try to set yourself apart from the rest of the crowd, especially if you are a non-traditional student who was unable to take advantage of many of the opportunities other students may have had. One way you can set yourself apart is to turn the common into the uncommon. There is no need to always reinvent the wheel, but sometimes the wheel may need a little tweaking.

Consider the basic task of sending out resumes and cover letters. These are rock-solid, must-have pieces of information for any employer. But who says you are limited to the pen and paper? While I would not dispense with the traditional cover letter and resume I might also add a cd or dvd in the envelope. Perhaps on this dvd I would put copies of my resume, cover letter, letters of recommendations, and a personal video taped introduction statement. You may even want to add some footage of others (friends, professors, coworkers, etc…) lauding your skills and personality. In this example the “box” is the basic resume and cover letter. By adding a little flair you are not abandoning these vital pieces of information in lieu of something new, you are simply revising (or improving) the way in which they are presented.

I am sure there are many more examples you can think of. The main point, however, is that you can be an original thinker without straining to pull out new ideas from the fourth dimension. Try taking some existing ideas and just simply making them better, or (as some of my children might say) making them “pop”. God Bless and have a great day.