Resume Worded

A dirty little secret? Most people you see on “best of” lists are paying to get there. Magazines (like Forbes) and trade groups usually give out awards as a revenue-generating arm of their business. “Would you like a fawning full-page spread and a plaque you can put up in your office? That can be yours for the low-low price of $2,000!” Sadly, if you’ve been in business long enough you’ve likely received one of these unsolicited emails. And they keep coming because people keep paying. Then there’s the reality that a lot of awards that don’t cost money involve expensive nominations processes that only a select few have access to. Some companies have whole teams to submit their work for prestigious awards like Pulitzer Prizes or smaller recognitions like “best places to work” lists. Even the Oscars has extensive behind-the-scenes campaigns from movie studios to lobby voters. My point? Many people think they need to be on some award list to be successful. Or, they see others with these things and feel bad about themselves. But when you look behind the curtains, they're often pay-to-play ‘fake’ signals and not what we should be chasing. so let's shift our goalposts. Instead of aiming for what looks good on the surface, focus on what feels right for you. What makes you proud of your work? What kind of impact do you want to have? When you start asking these questions, you might just find that your path leads you somewhere unexpected — and way more satisfying. Remember, it's your career, your rules. Make sure you’re playing the game you actually want to play, not the one you think you're supposed to. --- p.s. repost this if you think it can help others see through the noise too ♻️ and consider following me. I write practical no-fluff career strategy that'll give your career quick boosts throughout your week — I hope I see you around!