Getting hired for a job is not just about who is “most qualified” anymore. “Most qualified” might get you into that final stack of resumes and applications that a hiring manager will review, but how do you grab that hiring manager’s attention and make them want to learn more about you and ultimately hire you? Break out your secret weapon . . . the “X factor”.

What is the X factor?

Noun: 1. Special talent or quality; 2. A variable in a situation that could have the most significant impact on the outcome;

Your personal X factor could be a special talent or quality that you possess. Employers are looking for people with that certain variable (talent or quality) about them which could have a significant impact on their department’s/company’s success. Another name for your X factor is your Personal Brand. It is what makes you uniquely desirable as a potential employee.

Discovering Your Personal X factor

I’ve never really walked through the mind of someone other than myself. I’ve attempted it, but then again, how could I be accurate? I don’t know what makes me different from every other girl in the world, but I know the factors that multiply to equal me.

I remember, when I was a lot younger, I wanted a more common name. How many people do you know with the name “Natachi?” I wanted the straight, flowing hair. I wanted the hourglass. As I continue to evolve into a young lady, I embrace my culture. I love my name, which means “from god.” I embrace my hair, and I appreciate everything I have because without them, who would I be?

It’s funny sometimes, looking back. Thinking of all of the ridiculous things that ran through my mind and straight out of my mouth.

Maybe this would have happened if I-5 through Stockton wasn't getting a complete overhaul.  But I can't help but wonder if this accident was partially a result of the narrowed and fewer lanes on that freeway as 4 years of construction gets underway.  This was last Thursday night, on my way home.  That's not my car, but the other guy's.  He rear ended me as traffic lurched, stopped, sped up, stopped, etc.  His front left hit my back right, and thankfully the car I was in didn't suffer nearly the damage.  He and I were both ok, both insured, and other than standing out on a hot freeway shoulder for 45 minutes, waiting for a CHP officer to arrive, unharmed.  Warning to any other drivers on I-5 through Stockton---PAY ATTENTION.