Networking—the word makes many cringe. Some think that it’s disingenuous. They envision smooth operators and politicians wheeling and dealing. For others, networking is too forced and awkward. The introverts among us would rather curl up with a book at home. Still a number are content with their circumstance and don’t feel the need to network. … Continue reading Give and Connect: Networking Demystified

There’s no such thing as a self-made man or woman. Behind every successful individual are mentors—teachers, coaches, advisors—who have supported and invested in them. Basketball players have free throw coaches; pop stars, voice coaches. Even CEOs seek guidance from executive coaches and more experienced CEOs. You need a mentor (or several) as well. Mentors are … Continue reading Seek Out Mentors

Many job seekers are too easily dazzled. Some jump at the prospect of working for a well-known brand. Others are delighted by open floor plans and whiteboard walls. Still others are thrilled by onsite gyms, free lunches, employee discounts, and so on. All of these hold value, but their novelty soon fades. The top determinant … Continue reading Find the Right Boss—Yes, It Really Matters

I always admired peers who knew what they wanted to do. Many entered college resolved to become doctors. Unlike me, who entertained half a dozen majors, they had a clear destination from the start. As a group, they dreamt big and worked hard. Research, internships, volunteering—whatever might give a competitive edge for med school applications—they … Continue reading Be Focused but Flexible

Blindfolded I meandered through the obstacle course, guided by the voice of my partner. Meanwhile, opposing teams made noise and gave conflicting directions. Progress was slow, each step careful. The makeshift obstacles themselves weren’t difficult. The challenge was focusing through the distractions. Post-college life often resembles this game. To reach your destination, you must separate … Continue reading Overcome the Noise

The more you know, the more you realize you’ve yet to learn. Recent graduates will soon face this reality. Some will experience it as a warm invitation into lifelong learning; others, a rude awakening of how little their education pertains to their job. And those who don’t feel the need to learn are either aiming … Continue reading Immerse Yourself in Learning

Advertisements often reflect societal values. Amtrak tells commuters to “stay productive” with its free Wi-Fi service. 5-hour ENERGY promises to “help you get through your busy day.” Microsoft claims that its products “do more. Just like you.” We’ve been conditioned to believe that success demands constant activity. In today’s hyper-connected global market, we must keep … Continue reading The Allure of Busyness

As a society, our view of work is broken. On the one hand, we may see work as a burden, a paycheck, a necessary evil. We bemoan Mondays and celebrate Fridays. Many employees count the minutes until happy hour, when they can commiserate over their day. Oblivious managers, lazy coworkers, and fruitless meetings are typical … Continue reading A New Perspective on Work and Identity