Success and ambition: Market yourself effectively

[sadia malik 2011]

There is a misconception about the term “less fortunate” as I have noticed it being used for people who cannot afford extravagance. For all who misunderstand, I would like to correct the impression.


The term also applies to those who may have everything but are deprived of using or enjoying it. The “less fortunate” is not the one who doesn’t have a car but the person who has several but cannot go for a delightful evening drive. The real “less fortunate” are those who are unable to make a mark and achieve recognition; always at the mercy of others seeking reference, a word, a push and an obligation.
Personally, and at the risk of being termed “childishly naïve”, I have not understood why anyone would want to be recommended for school, college, university, a job, transfer or approval of a proposal. No matter how dishonestly competitive a system might be, if you are not acceptable, you are not acceptable. Why should the next course be bribery or recommendation?



There is sufficient evidence that even in an environment of high prejudice, or unfair competition, there has been acceptance of products, concepts or persons on pure merit. Pakistanis living in western countries, who wear white shalwars six inches above their shoes, sport a Taliban-style beard and a head gear that distinctly sets them apart, work in banks, hi-tech corporations and other strategic positions—and are doing well! So who recommended them? Well, they started at a point way below zero and, whilst they are aware, that altering their personal presentation would render them more acceptable, they opted not to do so. Then who needs recommendations?


Recommendations or “sifarish” is sought by those fully aware of their shortcomings and assume an adamant stance not to do anything constructive about it. They are bent on only reaching their goals through the influential or through a bundle of currency. But for all who believe this to be the only way, let me assure them that it is not. Every educational institution and every organisation needs extraordinary people. They are always on the lookout for them. The secret, therefore, is to undertake effective self marketing.



The first step on this ladder of success is to be able to sharply focus on the last step. Determine what you want and where you see yourself in order to map out your path. Seek the help of a mentor, if you have or can find one. From the entry point, and for each subsequent step that you take afterwards, determine the requirements and to these add the advancements that take place in the global environment.


Determination, knowledge and confidence never go unnoticed.If seeking admission in a university that has set very high standards and only admit the cream, prepare yourself, not just to be the best of the top layer but the cherry on the top. Make a list of what-it takes—general knowledge, current knowledge, subject knowledge and market knowledge of that field. Acquire all while adding something extra to your memory bank to also take in the advancements and developments.


The idea is for the institution to want you more than you would want them. Your treasure of knowledge gives you the confidence as you present yourself in a promisingly attractive package. Evaluators love what they see and impulsively aim to acquire you. You must ensure that the product meets the promise and as you continue the trend of acquiring knowledge, you not only position yourself for the top grades but also make the institution proud of you.

Those who have completed their education and with their CV in hand are searching every nook and corner for an influential person to recommend them … stop! Do not look for anyone who himself is there because someone put him there, he is far less fortunate than you are.


Determine what value addition you can provide to the organisation once you have your basic qualifications, additional information, knowledge and specific skills for the position. Be very specific about the position you seek along with highlighting the improvement you are capable of bringing about. Appropriate people are required for a business to flourish, grow and be profitable. No organisation can afford the luxury of people coming in on recommendations.

( A column published is a newspaper )