In the cutthroat world of professional pursuits, where everyone is vying for that coveted prize – be it a job, a grant, or a promotion – it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing the bare minimum. We check off the required boxes, hit ‘submit,’ and hope for the best. But what if the secret to standing out lies not in what’s mandatory, but in what’s optional?

Consider this: you’re applying for a dream job, and the application asks for a cover letter and resume. You meticulously craft both, ensuring they’re polished and professional. But then you notice a little line that says, “Optional: Submit a portfolio of your work.” Most applicants would shrug and move on. But you, the savvy go-getter, see an opportunity.

That “optional” portfolio is your chance to shine, to showcase your talents and passion in a way a resume never could. It’s a blank canvas where you can paint a vivid picture of who you are and what you bring to the table. It’s your underdog’s advantage.

This principle isn’t limited to just job applications. Imagine a grant applicant who stumbles upon an optional video component. Their initial reaction might be, “Why bother with extra work when it’s not required?”

But a closer look—and a few eye-opening statistics—reveals a hidden opportunity.

Did you know that the human brain processes video 60,000 times faster than text?

Or that viewers retain 95% of a message when watching it in a video compared to 10% when reading it?

Videos on social media generate a whopping 1200% more shares than text and images combined. The video isn’t just another task; it’s a chance to forge a personal connection with the reviewers, to breathe life into their proposal, and to show the passion and potential impact of their project in a way that sticks.

Videos on social media generate 1200% more shares than text and images combined.

By seizing this opportunity, you may transform your application from a static document into a dynamic narrative, complete with faces, voices, non-verbal cues, and a tangible vision of your goals.

It’s this kind of initiative, backed by the undeniable power of video, that can catch the eye of grantmakers and tip the scales in your favor.

The power of optional

You might be wondering, Why does optional content have such power? The answer lies in psychology. When you go above and beyond, you signal to others that you’re not just interested in checking boxes; you’re genuinely invested in the opportunity. You’re demonstrating initiative, creativity, and a willingness to put in the extra effort – qualities that are highly valued in any field.

When you go above and beyond, you signal to others that you’re not just interested in checking boxes; you’re genuinely invested in the opportunity.

Moreover, optional elements allow you to showcase your unique personality and skills. They give you a platform to tell your story in your own voice, to connect with others on a deeper level. And in a world where competition is fierce, that personal connection can make all the difference.

So the next time you’re faced with an “optional” task, ask yourself: Could this be my underdog’s advantage?

When you encounter an “optional” field in an application or a project, don’t dismiss it as an afterthought. Embrace it as a chance to unleash your creativity, to show what sets you apart.

Remember, the most memorable victories often come from those who dare to go beyond the expected.