X-Factor Approach

To begin, the term "X-Factor" refers to what distinguishes you from others. It prompts the essential question: What makes me unique in a crowded field? Fortunately, there’s a straightforward method to pinpoint what sets you apart in your market.

My initial insight came from a webinar led by copy coaches Rob and Kira. Their explanation of niches was refreshingly simple. Niches represent the audience you are addressing. While having a niche simplifies communication with your audience, it does not specify how you uniquely assist them. A more effective way to define your niche is to identify the problems you solve and how your solutions differ from others. This is where your X-Factor resides.

Once you grasp the concept of the X-Factor, the next step is to identify it. Start by listing your skills, experiences, and qualifications. Consider the tools or programs you utilize, your notable achievements, and any creations you’ve developed.

Here’s my personal inventory:

• I design logos.
• My internship with NationalBlackguide.com began with updating their events section and culminated in 12 published pieces: 6 blog posts and 7 listicles. One article was even featured by Newsbreak, which was a thrilling moment!
• I completed writing courses through AWAI, where I honed my abilities in blogging, email, and UX copywriting.
• I hold a college degree in Biology.
• I serve as a mentor at the Fresh Air Fund.
• I publish articles on Medium.

While I had some accomplishments, I felt my list lacked the depth needed to reveal my X-Factor. Rather than becoming frustrated, I decided to set it aside for a while.

Peer Review Process

Before you dismiss this idea, hear me out. This is not the typical peer review you encounter at work; it is a process meant to extract insights about yourself that you may overlook.

During a recent mastermind session, copy marketing expert Josh Boswell highlighted the advantages of a peer review. The goal is to uncover aspects of ourselves that are clear to others but not to us. The approach involves reaching out to 20–50 individuals who know you well and analyzing their responses for recurring themes.

Here's a template you could use:

Subject: Can you help me see myself better?

Dear [Name],

I'm conducting a business development exercise to uncover my unique strengths and abilities. What do you perceive as my distinctive strength? What do you think I excel at more than anyone else?

Feel free to write a brief or detailed response; any insights you provide would be immensely helpful.

Thank you!

[Your Name]

I opted to send 20 texts rather than emails, as it was more convenient. Out of the 20 texts, I received responses from 11 people, and I was pleased with the feedback.

The Results

The consensus among my peers was that my unique strengths include:

• Turning negative situations into positive outcomes
• Maintaining a positive attitude
• Finding silver linings
• Having a good sense of humor
• Making others feel at ease
• Exhibiting childlike faith

This method provided clarity, yet I struggled to articulate these findings until one afternoon when a friend shared her frustrations about locking her wallet in the work bathroom. She was attempting to stay positive, but it wasn't convincing. I reassured her that locking her wallet in the bathroom at work was still better than losing it elsewhere. I reminded her of the importance of her job and the impact she made.

In that moment, I realized that finding your X-Factor involves how you leverage your knowledge. It’s about exceeding expectations. It may take several attempts to clarify your unique qualities, but a shift in perspective can reveal them.

Be open to utilizing your skills and personal attributes in innovative ways. If you encounter setbacks, remember: persistence is key!

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