3 steps to having a mission-driven career and the courage to attract greater recognition and more satisfaction None of us have a crystal ball that can predict all the chaos that can happen in any given day. In fact, trying to foresee or control the future is pointless. With technology advancing every minute, buying habits changing on a dime, and employers continuing to operate from fear, things have never been more u...

Research proves that 65% of all communication is visual. What are your clothes saying about your personal brand? I’m off to New York this week to land a major piece of business, meet with my agent to deliver my latest book and give a speech to career professionals. I’m completely prepared to “wow” everyone I’m seeing with the content I’ve created, but without looking the part of “World-Class Brand Strategist,” no one will l...

If everything you’re seeking is seeking you, then you better get clear on what you really want. I’ve been hearing from many of my followers that they feel stuck. They’ve achieved a great deal in their careers, but don’t know where the road they are on is taking them. Many want to move forward, but the economy and a tough job market have held them in place. Although those are real barriers, I believe that a lack of vi...

Clearly define your expertise so you can attract the opportunities you want and the money you need. The process of developing a dynamic brand image asks you to unearth your authentic self, identify what you bring to the table, declare your values, vision your future, and at times live a double life as you evolve into the professional you aspire to be. The linchpin to a successful personal brand is your area of expertise. W...

Aim higher with a vision statement that takes you to the nexus of purpose and potential. “So tell me, where do you see yourself in five years?” I’ve always had disdain for that frequently asked and totally uninspired interview question. After all, it’s not about the next five years — it’s about your whole life! The question should be, “What kind of impact do you want to make in the world and how do you want to be recognized...

There's a pervasive belief in Corporate America - especially in a scary economy rife with layoffs and unstable companies - that you'd better conform if you want to survive. Not true! Being different gets you noticed, which is the first step to gaining influence. "Fearless fish" show their value by leveraging their own unique talents to shine on the job. But even more important, refusing to hide or downplay what makes you di...