starting a business Archives

Manager and employee in performance review discussion — avoiding bias in evaluation

Bias in Performance Reviews: How to Avoid It

Performance reviews are one of the most powerful tools a manager can use to shape team growth and culture. When done well, they promote learning, accountability, and trust. When done poorly, they can reinforce inequity, discourage engagement, and unintentionally perpetuate bias. Understanding bias in performance review is essential if you want to build a fair, high-performing organization. Featured Snippet Summary:… Read More →

Illustration of a professional advancing your career in tough times by climbing upward steps during an economic downturn.

Advancing Your Career in Tough Times | Strategies for Growth During Economic Downturns

Advancing your career in tough times can feel overwhelming when layoffs, hiring freezes, and economic downturns dominate the headlines. However, even during challenging periods, you can still grow, strengthen your position, and make intentional choices that support your long-term career goals.This guide will help you navigate economic uncertainty, cope with job market anxiety, and create a practical plan for advancing… 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…

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 →

Professional woman meeting with a recruiter during an interview, demonstrating how to work with a recruitment agency effectively

How to Work With a Recruitment Agency: Get Better Job Offers

Working with a Recruitment Agency: Keys to Producing Ideal Outcomes If you want to know how to work with a recruitment agency in a way that leads to better roles, stronger offers, and less wasted time, it starts with having a clear strategy and understanding how recruiters really operate. If you’ve ever felt like applying online is slow, discouraging, and…

Checklist asking whether to start my own business with yes selected, representing entrepreneur vs employee career decision

Entrepreneur vs Employee: How to Own Your Career Path and Choose the Right Future

Entrepreneur vs Employee: Addressing Dissatisfaction by Owning Your Path If you’re deciding between the entrepreneur vs employee paths, the right choice depends on your risk tolerance, values, financial readiness, and comfort with uncertainty. By understanding your motivations and building a strong safety net, you can choose the career path that truly fits your long-term goals. Many professionals reach a point…