Time to plan — preparing for a performance review with a strategic mindset

How to Prepare for a Performance Review: A Coach’s Guide to Owning the Conversation

Career Growth • Performance The best way to prepare for a performance review is to document measurable wins, reflect honestly on growth areas, and enter the meeting with a clear ask—such as a promotion, raise, or development opportunity—so you guide a two-way conversation rather than receive a one-sided verdict. What’s inside Why Your Performance Review Matters Step 1: Track &… Read More →

Being Aware of Bias and Imposter Syndrome During Performance Reviews

Performance reviews are supposed to create clarity: what you did well, where you should grow, and how your work contributes to the organization. Yet for many professionals, review cycles trigger anxiety, spiraling self-doubt, and the fear of being “found out.”That dread is not random. During review season, two powerful forces often collide: Imposter syndrome — the internal experience of doubting… Read More →

File organizer labeled “Talents” representing skills and adding competencies to your resume.

Adding Competencies to Your Resume: How to Stand Out in Today’s AI-Driven Hiring Market

The resume is still the centerpiece of your job search toolkit. Even as artificial intelligence (AI) and applicant tracking systems (ATS) increasingly shape hiring, your resume remains the primary way employers evaluate your fit for a role. It offers a concise snapshot of your skills, qualifications, and experience in a format that both humans and technology can review quickly. However,… Read More →

Career Networking Strategies: A Complete Guide to Building Meaningful Professional Connections

Career networking strategies help you access the hidden job market, build visibility with decision-makers, and create long-term career resilience. Use the 5 P’s of Networking (Patience, Positive Tone, Professional Pitch, Post-Networking Follow-Up, Practice) to connect with others authentically—without feeling awkward, salesy, or pushy. Networking often feels intimidating, awkward, or even overwhelming for many professionals. As a career coach, I regularly… Read More →

Two Black professionals in business attire shaking hands in a bright office lobby, symbolizing confident networking and strong professional pitches.

How to Build a Strong Professional Pitch: Your Guide to Crafting a Memorable Professional Narrative

How to Build a Strong Professional Pitch: The Basics By Lisa Orbé-Austin, PhD A Department of Labor survey indicated that more than 50% of jobs are obtained via networking, while only about 5% of jobs come from the open job market of online job listings. I share this fact with many clients, yet networking remains one of the most resisted…

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Career Advancement: Fall Planning for Job Search Success & Promotions

Featured Summary: Fall is the ideal time to reset your career goals. By updating your résumé, strengthening your online presence, reconnecting with your network, and committing to a fall career plan, you can accelerate your job search and position yourself for promotion or transition. As Labor Day signals the unofficial end of summer, the fall season brings a unique opportunity…