This Is How They Marketed Products 503 Years Ago: Insights from Da Vinci's Resume
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Chapter 1: Unveiling Da Vinci's Approach
Have you ever taken the time to examine Leonardo da Vinci's resume? He had a remarkable ability to convey value, and surprisingly, his artistic achievements are the last thing he mentions. While we can glean insights on crafting a compelling resume from his approach, da Vinci imparts even deeper lessons.
Here are six key takeaways from his resume:
Section 1.1: Know Your Audience
Da Vinci's opening sentence directly addresses his audience, the regent and future Duke of Milan, beginning with "Most Illustrious Lord." This demonstrates the importance of knowing who you are communicating with.
Section 1.2: The Importance of Generosity
Instead of simply asking for something, da Vinci first offered a gift. He crafted a bronze horse, emphasizing that it represented the enduring glory of the recipient's family name.
Subsection 1.2.1: Addressing Concerns
His resume is heavily focused on engineering solutions for warfare and infrastructure, clearly understanding the recipient's priorities and concerns.
Section 1.3: Highlighting Your Value
Da Vinci articulates what he can achieve and why it matters. For instance, he mentions his expertise in draining trenches and constructing bridges during sieges, linking his skills to their significance.
Chapter 2: Building a Lasting Impression
Section 2.1: Layering Benefits
While he markets himself for military endeavors, he also emphasizes his potential contributions during peacetime, such as designing magnificent structures and creating art to enhance the legacy of his patron.
Section 2.2: Establishing Credibility
Da Vinci invites skepticism, asserting that if his proposals seem unfeasible, he is prepared to demonstrate their viability through experimentation.
In summary, here’s what we can learn from da Vinci's resume:
- Understand your audience
- Offer value before asking
- Address relevant concerns
- Clearly convey your value as a solution
- Provide additional layers of benefits
- Supply evidence of your capabilities
Take a moment to read his resume—what resonates with you? If you're interested in more articles like this one, consider subscribing to MOAM's Friday newsletter.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be regarded as financial or legal advice. Always consult a financial expert before making significant financial decisions.