Savvy Professional Career Wisdom by Caroline Dowd-Higgins
Why You Should Invest in a Professional Photo
In the age of social media we are encouraged to use a photo in our professional profiles. This is a great networking tool and provides a very important first impression to the readers, many of whom are employers trolling for job candidates. How often have you seen a profile photo cropped to showcase the head-only […]
Accepting Compliments
Historically, women have been taught to be modest and not boastful. While there is nothing worse than an arrogant bragger, I am on a personal mission to help others embrace their humble confidence and own their strengths and accomplishments. In reality, there is nobody else in the professional world advocating on your behalf but you. […]
Moms Re-entering the Workforce
Many women take a hiatus from careers to raise their young children in accordance with their work/life values. But, not all women have the luxury of leaving work to be with their kids. The Harvard Business Review published data reporting that 93% of women who do take a temporary leave (beyond the traditional maternity leave), […]
A Portfolio Can Be Your Secret Weapon
Fine artists have been using portfolios for decades to showcase examples of their work. This multi dimensional tool is gaining popularity in the job market for other professions as well. By assembling an archive of your work, you can show employers why you will be a value-add to their organization. Similar to the resume, the […]
What it Takes to Succeed
I just read an article by David Cutler who wrote a book called The Savvy Musician. He outlined various competencies for success in musical careers that are applicable in all professional work arenas. An Entrepreneurial Mindset. The ability to problem solve, create opportunities, think outside the box, market remarkably, and manage your own projects. Leadership […]
Round One – Video Interview
I have seen a steady increase in employers that are relying on video conference interviews to screen first-round job candidates. This can be a great way to make a powerful first impression and beats the dreaded phone interview where it’s hard to make a personal connection due to the lack of eye contact. While less […]
The WAGE Project
Kudos to several of my blog readers who shared this amazing resource! The WAGE Project http://www.wageproject.org (WAGE stands for Women Are Getting Even) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to end the gender wage gap by teaching women across America how to negotiate. It is a great program that is typically targeted to Women’s […]
Build Your Personal Board of Directors
It’s no secret that a mentor can be a terrific resource as you navigate your personal career path. Some organizations assign mentors and other relationships develop naturally when like minded people hit it off. If you are your own boss, or don’t have a company to connect you with a mentor, you can and should […]
Write it Down!
Having dreams and goals for the future is a wonderful way to focus on what you want in your life and career. A wise mentor once told me it’s not enough to just think about your goals – you must write them down. Putting your wishes on paper helps you articulate things more clearly and […]
You Can Tell A Lot By A Person’s Shoes
From the time I was a young girl I can remember my father polishing his shoes every night so they would be shiny and clean for his next work day. My father worked in the New York City corporate jungle of starched shirts and tailored suits. He always looked liked a consummate professional and taught […]
