Creating Change Today

As we collectively protest police brutality and racial injustice, many of us wonder what we can do today.  How can we use our voices or actions? And, can they actually make a difference?   

This week, The Living on Purpose Project challenges you to take inventory of your skills and think of three (3) specific things that you can do to create positive change now.  

Have the courage to start a difficult conversation about race;  reach out to someone to let them know that you are thinking of them during this difficult time; or simply ask yourself how you can use your skills, knowledge, or resources to help create opportunities for others.  

Change is not something that we must always “wait” to happen.  Sometimes you simply need to create the new opportunities and change that we seek – one small action at a time.  

There’s Something Happening Here

There’s something happening here. America is bruised, battered, and in many ways broken. Depending on who you ask, some will say this problem of “brokenness” goes back 400 years ago. Others think it’s a new issue that started this week with the brutal police killing of George Floyd.  What you believe (and where you fall on this spectrum) may largely depend on your race, socio-economic background, or even your political party. However, what is clear and undeniable is that fear, rage, hatred, and racism exist in America.  Things have to change.

As we individually and collectively navigate the overwhelming challenges affecting our country, remember that nothing changes on its own. People must change “it.” WE must change how WE think, feel, believe, and do.  We must use our talents, voice, and professional skills to hold people accountable and to help others see and do things in new and different ways.

This week, the Living on Purpose Project is heading to social media to spread so much needed love and positivity.  Join us in sharing your most inspirational and uplifting photos, quotes and messages to remind us that we can create the change we want to see – one person at a time. 

Going with the Flow in Times of Change

Life is evolving and changing right before our eyes. Life is a journey, so get on and enjoy the ride. This week, we’re sharing inspiration and ideas on our Instagram and Twitter feeds. Join the conversation. Stay safe and take care. – The Living on Purpose Project    

Seven (7) Tips to Cultivate a Successful Career in the COVID-19 Era

 1.    Have a mentor: Mentors help you uncover the right direction to travel and how to best navigate the journey. Want a mentor? Just ask someone you respect (former/current boss, professor, industry contact, spiritual leader, etc.) for their advice with a specific task or goal. Professional mentors can help you find and create opportunities to grow in a new or existing field.

2.   Learn sales strategies and tactics: Strong sales skills mean that you are able to persuade others to see and appreciate value in the unknown/unseen.

3.   Bring added value: No matter your profession or industry, create ways to bring added value to every project you work on and over-deliver on each aspect of your job.

4.   Take calculated risks: Success in the new COVID-19 era will depend on your ability to see what others cannot.  You must be willing to take risks that others are unwilling or unable to make. Find a way to carefully measure the pros and cons, and then take a chance.

5.   Be persistent: Most things in times of major change require time and persistence to work out. If you apply for a job but don’t get hired or pitch a new client who decides to “go with someone else” – never give up.  Remember “no” is the start, not the end to any conversation (or negotiation).  Life and career are rarely linear and always require planning and persistence.

6.   Improve your negotiation skills: Adopt the believe that EVERYTHING in life is negotiable. Whether it’s your new salary, title, your new COVID-19 office space, remember everything is up for discussion.

Remember negotiation AFTER you accept the position or  opportunity, is called begging because you have no leverage.

7.   Find your passion and follow it: The hardest part to doing what you love is first identifying what you do well – naturally. After you uncover the WHAT, turn to mentors, free resources and support professionals to figure out ways to pursue it.

Finding success in these uncertain and changing times starts with developing these core skills and abilities. This week pick one of these suggestions and work on cultivating a successful career, one skill and experience at a time. #COVID-19 #Coronavirus

Now is the Perfect Time to Finally Find Real Work Life Balance

In today’s turbulent job market, many of us are happy to have a job and are less concerned with whether or not that job makes us happy.

This might be the ideal time to create and find new ways to maintain a balanced life. When you can find real work life balance, you can achieve anything, including being paid to do what you love.

Here are seven (7) ways to get started in achieving a balanced foundation to a happy and successful life:

1.    Take 40 minutes a day to release stress: Do yoga, walk to the office or head to the gym after work. Literally schedule this hour into your day like you would a business meeting, appointment or event. Remember, an hour does not magically appear in anyone’s life - you have to schedule time for the things that matter.  

2.   Have a career transition plan, or two: Now more than ever you need to have a Plan B and Plan C of what you will do if you suddenly find yourself out of work. Yes, your employer may be telling you that your position is secure. However, no one knows what market (and workforce) demands will be like over the next 24 months. The only thing guaranteed is change itself.

3.   Constantly create new things to look forward to: Simply knowing that you are doing something or meeting someone new can greatly improve your mental state and mood. Whether it’s an informational interview, registering for a class, or hiring someone to whip up a new resume - anticipation is a powerful, positive force. Look forward to even the little things - doing so can change your whole outlook on life. 

4.   Surround yourself with visual goals: Whether you want to work in another state or hope to find the inexpensive ways to decorate your new home office - find and surround yourself with pictures, words and images to help you stay inspired, interested and focused on your life and your career goals. 

5.   Network with coworkers or others in your field outside of the office: Even taking a walk around the block with a colleague can help you tap into your social need to bring more fun to your 9-to-5.

6.   Take a Friday or half day off: Many people can’t take a two-week vacation, but everyone can take one afternoon or half day off. Remember, in order to be effective, you must have a physical break from your mental grind.

7.   Take a mental health day: If your employer pays you for a certain number of sick days - take them. Take at least one day every couple of months to decompress and give yourself a mental break from your routine. Call out by saying you are under the weather and plan a great at home day! Even if you feel physically “ok,” everyone can use at least one mental health day a month. Take time and space away to clear your mind. 

This week find one new way to do what you enjoy and take the break you need and deserve.

Life and Career Lessons I Learned from my Dog’s Life

My dog died two years ago. I am at peace, but still a little heartbroken.  Pets have the amazing ability to enhance and improve our lives in a very special way.  

Here’s to our four-legged friends who are helping us figure out our new way of working and living. Thanks to our pets for showing us how to make the most of times of uncertainty.

1.     Listen twice as much as you speak: Pets are the friends who support you through life without saying a word. Remember, there is power in a smile, an energetic welcome and your mere presence.

2.     Know and try to connect with the pack leader: Learn how to read human body language. Dogs know who’s the “top dog” in any environment simply by watching and listening.

3.     Listen to your instincts: My dog reminds me of the importance of  following my gut and trusting my instincts when it comes to people and situations.

4.     We could use a little alpha dog in all of us: Having a 25 pound Poodle-something who initially fought the pit bull in the dog park, I quickly knew I needed help with his socialization. With the help of an animal behavioral doctor at the ASPCA, I quickly learned how to modify his responses.

5.     Greet everyone like they are a rock star: Dogs have a great way of making anyone feel special by welcoming and greeting them with such energy.

6.     Observe what other people want – and find a way to give it to them: Pets show us all that we can always find out what people want and need if you simply pay close attention to what people do and say.

7.     Accept people for who they are: I hope I can grow to be the type of person my dog thought I was. In his eyes, I could do no wrong. He showed me to accept people as they are.

This week share your love for animals and the people who love them.

Recognizing What You Are Great At

We are all great at something. What’s that thing that you do better than anyone else? Knowing your strengths will be key in the job market in the months and years ahead. 

This week take time to toot your own horn and celebrate the many things that you are great at doing. In case you need some help in getting started - here are seven (7) things to consider when determining where you excel. 

1.   Are you passionate about a group of people or a cause? Something matters to all of us - what’s the cause that you believe in? I am committed to people who want to find a way to live life doing what they love. I believe we would all be much happier – and the world a better place – if more people could spend their time and talents on what interests them.

2.   Did you take a risk that paid off? More than a decade ago I created a course called Turning Your Passion into Your Profession. I sent the proposal to the Learning Annex, a professional development organization in NYC. When they turned down my course, I took a chance and sent it to NYU, Columbia, AND Baruch College. Even though I had zero prior teaching experience, I took a risk. Lucky I did. NYU ran the course for more than 10 years and Baruch College hired me to teach 5 courses over 5 years. Teaching then became a new part of my career. Whether you bought a one-way ticket to NYC, quit your job to travel the world, or just found a new job and no longer have to sleep on a friend’s couch – celebrate your big and small risks that paid off.

3.   Are you really good at your job? What’s the one aspect of your professional life that you do better than others? I am great at motivating people to want to work with and for me, in part because I continually let others know how much I appreciate them and value what they do. I pride myself in being a great supervisor, mentor, and coworker. What do you pride yourself for?

4.   Are you a go-getter who goes after what you want? Sometimes life is simply about trying new things. Pat yourself on the back for trying new things and pushing yourself and others out of your comfort zone. Next time you decide you are going to “go for it” no matter what happens, celebrate your ability to venture into something new.

5.    Are you a great friend or coworker? Perhaps you are that person at work who makes anything seem better. There are some people who make work “work” because they are pleasant, positive, and flexible people.

6.   Do people turn to you when they need encouragement or support? You may be a great cheerleader in your personal life. That person who motivates and inspires your family, friends, and others to work towards and achieve their goals.

7.   Are you organized and able to help others organize their life and/or goals? Some people are really good at creating organization, structure, and discipline for others. Maybe you are a kick ass personal trainer or life coach. Or perhaps you are simply that friend who helps others organize, declutter and simplify their homes, businesses or lives.

This week identify and remind yourself of at least one thing that you do very well. Pat yourself on the back and celebrate this strength that makes you uniquely special and one-of-a-kind.

Making the Most of the Extra Time on Your Hands

Time does nothing.  It’s only what you DO with the time you have that creates positive change in your life and career.  This week we’re heading to social media to share small reminders (of what’s really important); ask BIG questions; and offer suggestions to maximize your free time. Here’s to filling the hours that you would have normally spent preparing and traveling to and from work with new plans, projects and people that excite and inspire you.  It’s possible that your next (and perhaps best) chapter is just waiting to be written.  

7 Things Successful People Don’t Do

Success in your career and business depends on your ability to see, create and find opportunities. As we continue to navigate the new normal and you contemplate what’s next for your career, keep in mind these seven (7) things that successful people have in common:

1.    Don’t care what others think: A lot of time is often wasted on trying to live your life for other people. You can only do you - so ignore what others have to say about it. Of course, we all need constructive criticism. But we do not need to internalize other people’s fears, doubts and resistance to change.

2.   Don’t fear taking one or two steps back in order to get to where you want to be: Our careers are not linear. Most people will have to take a few steps back throughout your career. Moving backwards doesn’t matter if it ultimately puts you where you want to be.

3.   Don’t feel they have to travel the same path as everyone else: In fact, they embrace it. Less than 27% of people work in a field directly related to their college major. Proving that there are many paths to get you to where you want to go.

4.   Don’t get intimidated by things not working out - they see it as part of the process: Just because something doesn’t go as planned doesn’t mean you failed. You simply found something that does not work. Move on and try something else.

5.   Don’t define themselves by temporary circumstances: Everyone at some point has had to start from the ground up. At times, you also have to take a position that is temporary until the bigger, brighter opportunity presents itself. 

6.   Don’t wait around for others to tell them what to do when opportunity knocks: Successful people open the door. You should always try to act on every career opportunity. Don’t expect to find it in a pretty package with a bow marked “opportunity.”

 7.   Don’t accept no: Successful people see “no” as the start of the negotiation. In career and business, no does not always mean no - forever. One of the smartest things you can do for yourself is to learn not to take “no” personally.

Sometimes success comes from our effort and hard work. Sometimes it’s what we DON’T do that makes the difference.  Remember that it’s often what we don’t say that speak volumes to our potential and abilities.

Making Lemons Out of Lemonade During the Coronavirus Crisis

As you continue to navigate stay-at-home orders and massive changes to your personal and professional life, we are sharing motivational messages on social media - ideas to help you turn lemons into lemonade when it comes to your career.  Now is not the time to give up on your dreams. In fact, it might be the ideal chance to give birth to new goals and career possibilities.  Stay home and be well. – The Living on Purpose Project Staff

7 Things Successful People Don’t Do

Success in today’s uncertain and ever-changing world depends on your ability to foresee, create and find new opportunities. Here are seven (7) things that millions of successful people have in common. 

1.    Don’t care what others think: Don’t waste time living your life for other people.  Of course, we all need constructive criticism but you should ignore negative feedback. Don’t internalize other people’s fears, doubts and/or resistance to change. Remember only you can determine, define or limit your own potential.

2.   Don’t fear taking one or two steps back in order to get to where you want to be: Our careers are not linear. At times, you will have to take a few steps back throughout your career. Moving backwards doesn’t matter if it ultimately puts you where you want to be.

3.   Don’t feel they have to travel the same path as everyone else: In fact, they embrace it. Less than 27% of people work in a field directly related to their college major. Proving that there are many paths to get you to where you want to go.

4.   Don’t get intimidated by things not working out - they see it as part of the process: Just because something doesn’t go as planned doesn’t mean you failed. You simply found something that does work. Move on and try something else. 

5.   Don’t define themselves by temporary circumstances: Everyone at some point has had to start from the ground up. At times, you also have to take a position that is temporary until the bigger, brighter opportunity presents itself. 

6.   Don’t wait around for others to tell them what to do when opportunity knocks: Successful people open the door. You should always try to act on every career opportunity. Don’t expect to find it in a pretty package with a bow marked “opportunity.”

7.   Don’t accept no: Successful people see “no” as the start of the negotiation. In career and business, no does not always mean no - forever. One of the smartest things you can do for yourself is to learn not to take “no” personally.

Sometimes success comes from our effort and hard work. Sometimes it’s what we DON’T do that makes the difference.  Remember that it’s often what we don’t say that speak volumes to our potential and abilities.

Creating the Change We Want to See in Our Lives and Career

This week, we’re heading to social media to offer you some ideas and inspiration about change - dealing with it, creating a plan for the future and becoming the change you want to see in the world. Continue to dream big dreams and we’ll continue to support you as you work to make them come true.  – The Living on Purpose Project Team

My Coronavirus “Oh Shit” List

There are times in life when we are smacked with the reality that we are not prepared for a situation. Here is the survival list I wrote this morning upon realizing “oh shit” NYC and this country are not prepared for the many potential scenarios that lie ahead. Here’s to staying prepared and being proactive as we navigate the next few months.

I know this list is extreme, it’s meant to be. I’d rather look back at my preparations years from now and laugh at how over prepared I was versus the other way around.  I hope these ideas benefit you and your family and help bring attention to some potential problems and situations. Truth is, it’s all about being prepared.

1.    Go to the ATM today: Start taking out some cash from ATMs. Most financial institutions limit daily ATM withdrawals to $500-$800 maximum. Don’t wait until they announce this suggestion on the news and you are scrambling with everyone else. Cash is invaluable in times of national emergencies - nothing drastic but have way more cash on hand than you normally do.  

2.    Gather your current documents: Collect and organize your most important papers, insurance cards, passports, children’s birth certificates, social security cards, your wills, etc. If you are temporarily displaced, you then will have your most important documents with you. Your materials will be invaluable in early filing of travel, government and insurance forms and claims. Check the expiration date on your Drivers License and passport. Today is an excellent time to submit your application for renewal. Services, especially TSA and travel related ones, may soon have long delays to process these documents for a variety of reasons.

3.    Fill up everything and keep it filled: Whether it’s the gas tank in your car, your freezer or pantry, your asthma medication and prescriptions, etc., keep things “at the ready.” As someone who has lived for a week and a half with no electricity, running toilets/showers, water, AC and basic necessities in 100 degree temperature - I know that having an extra bathtub and pots on the stove filled with water is an invaluable resource. After the Hurricane knocked down power lines, I soon learned that you need water for everything - to brush teeth/hands, wash, eat, prepare meals, etc. I also discovered that when electrical circuits and telecommunications networks are all used at the same time, they temporarily go down. Although the chance of the power going down is highly unlikely, be aware that electricity is needed to operate sewage and waste systems, including your toilet. (Here’s a survival tip: Pouring ½ bucket of water into the bowl or tank can allow you to manually flush your toilets without power). Remember it sucks to be #10 in a gas line that only has enough gas left for 3 cars! Think ahead in everything that you do. Now is time to be proactive and not reactive. 

4.    Get Baby wipes: Any Service member who has served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait will tell you that after their GI issued their weapon and equipment, the one thing they will swear by is . . . baby wipes. If you unfortunately have to go to a shelter or temporary housing, you will have limited and/or no access to public showers. It is amazing how clean you can get with soap, a half cup of water and baby wipes. Be sure to bring laundry detergent to hand wash clothes as needed. 

5.    Have a “Go-Bag”: As you may have done in “911,” create a go-bag - a bag that is pre-packed with 2-3 days of clothes, diapers, medicine, and your critical documents. Include a section or separate bag of dried fruit, nuts, canned goods and water to take with you. Don’t forget a multi pack of toilet paper.

6.    Have an emergency family meeting place and plan: In the event that you want/need to quickly leave your home, city or area, make sure everyone in your family knows when and how to meet and communicate. Now is the time to call an out-of-state friend and set up a plan that in the event of an emergency they will call you every day at 10 a.m. (While stuck in Cancun, my phone could NOT make calls but I could however receive them. Having this plan in place can be a Godsend later). Having a system in place now can make all the difference later. If you need to leave, where would you go as a family? Discuss this with everyone NOW - that way you will know when and how you can try to connect and communicate if normal communications channels are down.

7.    Make sure you have food and supplies: My personal goal is to have enough canned and frozen food, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products and cleaning supplies for four (4) weeks. However, do whatever you can. Even at least two (2) weeks of supplies is critical.  Even though cleaning products cannot be currently found in stores, you can create and find creative substitutes. Baking soda, diluted bleach, white and apple cider vinegar and rubbing alcohol are great cleaning agents. Be sure to pick up the food you both want and need. Keep in mind that when you are confined, you mentally crave food as both nutrition and entertainment. Having plenty of things to keep everyone interested and happy can make a huge difference. Don’t forget fuzzy or Fido. Pick up and pack pet food and/or have a plan of where you are going to take your pet in an emergency.

8.    Make use of family time: Navigating what lies ahead and how long we may be confined in our homes will be easier if you are prepared with both digital AND “low-tech” fun activities. Gather up cards, dice, and board games. Pull out some old photos, have a dance party or contest. “Stir-crazy” is real and you need to find ways to mentally, psychologically, and emotionally deal with being limited, restricted and/or confined.

9.    Keep your low-tech items. Hold onto that landline or second cell phone and even your clock radios. Keep chargers in your home and car. Pick up secondary “essentials” like rubber gloves, or a touchless thermometer and consider making an investment in other items like generators and ventilator masks (if you can).  

10. Let Go and Let God: Living through a Category 5 hurricane I realized that we really don’t control anything related to Mother Nature or the Universe. Plan, pray, and find ways to have faith that you have done everything you can to prepare and protect yourself and your family. The truth is, the virus may only seriously negatively impact 20% of the American population. Prepare and have faith in God and something greater than yourself - and Let Go and Let God!

This week, find ways to plan and prepare for what will be a disruption to everyday life. And, remember what I learned as a 8 year old Girl Scout -- you can’t navigate your way out of the woods/danger if your compass is sitting in your drawer at home. I welcome and encourage your feedback.

When to Seek Professional Help with Your Job Search

Everyone needs help in life. When it comes to your career - do you know when you should seek expert advice to help navigate your job search? Here are seven (7) signs that you might need to turn to career and other professionals to help you achieve your goals.

1.     You are not getting any requests for interviews: Chances are, if you’re posting your resume to job boards and not getting a response you might want to have a graphic designer or someone with an artistic eye review and update the visual design of your resume.

2.     You go on interviews, including ones for temporary jobs, but never get offered the position: You need to find someone to help you practice and improve your interview skills. Even if you can’t get help from someone else, ask yourself the question and record the answer. Then listen to the recording and analyze how you can improve your answers.

3.     Don’t have a good “career transition” story: Many people unknowingly talk themselves out of a job by not having a compelling “why you are qualified and best for the position” story. Getting a new job is much more complex than sending a resume and cover letter. It requires you to be able to sell yourself as being more qualified than you really are. Enlist the help of a more senior professional colleague or mentor to “test drive” your “why you” story by sharing it with them and then asking what you can change and improve.

4.     People have questions or are unclear about your expertise/professional niche: If others are more confused after reading your resume this means you need to customize it to ensure that it helps position you in the field you want to pursue.

5.     You feel overly nervous or overwhelmed when speaking to potential clients or employers: It’s normal for someone who is unemployed to feel frustrated or even depressed. If you feel that your nerves are getting the best of you, you might want to speak to a career coach, counselor or even therapist to get your head in the game and embrace a more positive mental perspective.

6.     You have been hired for a few temporary and temp-to-permanent positions but don’t get asked back for the full-time position: Chances are you are not conveying confidence and portraying yourself in the best light; spending just an hour with a career expert could help you uncover if you are giving off a bad vibe.

7.     You’re getting offered opportunities to work in a field that you don’t want to do any more: Consider hiring a writer to help you update your resume and develop a professional bio. A bio is a great way to tell your professional story and help others see your total experience.

This week consider if it’s time to call in a professional to help assist you with your career search/transition efforts. Ask just one person to help you work on your job search strategies, tighten your professional documents or to conduct a mock interview. Soon you will find new ways to help portray yourself in a more positive light.

Seven Mind Shifting Ways to Seeing Yourself as Bigger than Your Current Job, Role or Title

Here are seven mind shifting ideas to help you see the big picture and not be defined by the short-term or temporary roles you currently play in your life and career.

1.   You are greater than the role you play: We all play roles in our family, with friends and although you may not think it – even at work. Just because you’ve always been the “helper” who works tirelessly without any recognition doesn’t mean that’s the ONLY way people can see you. You always have the power to change your role at any moment in time. 

2.   Your work does not equal your worth: Imagine a world where you would always be rewarded for every contribution you make. Unfortunately, real life doesn’t work that way. Most people are underpaid, overworked and not properly acknowledged for what they do. Remind yourself that you are worth so much more than your current position at work. 

3.   You have infinite potential: The biggest thing keeping you from your dreams is you NOT believing that it’s possible.  You have to believe in your potential and “fake it till you make it” and never forget you have infinite potential.

4.   You must take on at least one opportunity where you are not treated with the professionalism and respect you deserve: We all have had to work mean girls or guys that are jerks.  Remember negative people have a purpose – to teach you – what NOT to do to others.

5.   Your title is what they call you at work – it is not who you are in life:  A title is a very subjective thing. What they call you at work banker, vet tech, teacher or even convict – NEVER let others labels define you.  Remember people can call you whatever title they like, as long as they pay you what you are worth.

6.   You are better than your worst past mistake:  In theory you should live life with few or no regrets.  However, we all have made mistakes and done things we are not proud of. What happened in the past does NOT dictate your life in the future.

7.   You are not going to do what you currently do forever: Nothing lasts forever, unless you want it to.  The great thing about life, career, business and more is you can make a choice and when that choice no longer works out – simply, you make another choice.

You are more than an assistant manager, development officer, recently unemployed “person.”  You are not just the roles you live or the work you currently do. This week remind yourself of one of these “maxims” -- creative goals/ideas. 

Here are seven key questions to ask yourself if you should leave your current job/position BEFORE you find another one.

1.    Does your current job offer opportunities for you to develop key skills and experiences to advance your career? If your job has “run its course” and you know that nothing good will happen within the next year like a promotion or new project/opportunity, set your sights on something bigger and better.

2.   Could you survive for at least 6-9 months on unemployment and savings?  Even if it means moving back in with your parents, relying on a spouse or partner, getting another roommate or seriously downsizing your lifestyle, if you can cover your bills for the next 6-9 months, you could take the risk of leaving a job without another lined up.

3.   Are you depressed and overwhelmed by being at your current job?  If you hate your current job and/or the people you work with, leaving that environment may be the best thing for you to do.  Often you can make better decisions when you feel less stressed. 

4.   Do you have one skill that you could do as a freelancer or consultant? Perhaps you can parlay your experience as a copy editor at a publishing company to work for small businesses and start-ups.  This is the one job you can do to always make money.

5.   Are you open to relocating to another city? Sometimes you need to change not just what you do but where you do it.  Ask yourself if now might be the perfect time to move someplace new.  That right opportunity may be waiting for you – just in another city.

6.   What can you do part-time to make extra money?  Perhaps now is a good time to take that bartending course/license. In NYC, if you can connect with the right crowd of bartenders and caterers, you might be able to create a part-time stream of income. 

7.   Are you tired of being sick and frustrated? At some points in life, career and business, you need to say enough is enough and move on to a happier more positive environment. 

This week remind yourself that sometimes in life, career and business, you have to take a big risk. Ask yourself these and other questions to help determine if quitting your current job without another one lined up is the best option. That big risk might be just the thing you need to stir up some new positive opportunities and change.  

What Cardi B Can Teach You About Branding and Making Money Moves in Any Industry

Cardi B is the girl you gotta’ love. Her Cinderella story is one that many can identify with and everyone can root for. The “Broad of the Nation” who once lived in the Bronx projects and danced at clubs is now a Grammy-winning artist and solo female rapper, with multiple Billboard 100 hits to her name. This breakout star of reality TV hit Love & Hip Hop New York has some interesting lessons to teach you about professional branding that could do wonders for your own career.

1.    Sell others on your Cinderella story: If Cardi B can go from “living in the P’s - to a crib with a gate” there is hope for your dreams to come true too. She shows regular people that with one awesome talent or skill your dreams can come true. What’s your Cinderella story? What personal and career obstacles have you been able to overcome and/or create successful accomplishments out of despite modest beginnings? How can you portray yourself as a Cinderella that others can root for and believe in?

2.   Know your “X” Factor and work it: Truth is, Cardi B has the X factor. That thing that you can’t name but that makes her stand out and be noticed. Cardi is one of a handful of reality TV stars who showed us her “flaws” with a smile on her face. We all have an “X” factor in our personalities that allows us to succeed personally and professionally. What’s yours? Perhaps it’s your sense of humor or style, the compliments you give or the questions you ask to show interest in others? Whatever it is - find your inner X-factor and work it!

3.   Create a lane or space where you excel and be yourself: Cardi created her own space/lane and uses her best asset (her personality) to her advantage. One of the reasons Cardi is winning right now is because she’s just being herself. The Hip Hop artist reminds us all that being ourselves is the one thing we CAN’T fail at doing! Be confident in who you are, what you bring to the table and find ways to perfect your unique trait, personality or skill. When you can be yourself and do what you do best – you will succeed in ANY industry because people will like, relate with, and want to work with you.  

4.   Don’t be the person people love to hate – be the person people love to love: If you are hating on Cardi – then there is something wrong with you. She may be a little over the top for some people, but she proves that bold brands are better able to differentiate themselves from the competition because they are unforgettable and have greater success in creating and maintaining brand loyalty.

5.   Gain power and fans when you claim (not hide) your imperfections: A couple of years ago Cardi B was a rougher version of the diamond we see today. By her own admission, she talked “funny,” coined her own words and phrases (including my personal favorite “Sh-money”), created trademark mannerisms and was in need of oral surgery to fix her teeth. Instead of hiding these flaws like most people would do, Cardi fully claimed them and talks about these things in her lyrics, songs and interviews. You too can claim your professional weaknesses in a way that makes them seem like strengths. In the process, you will also gain the interest, respect and support of others.

6.   Surround yourself with a smart and strategic team: Cardi is a smart girl, who became even smarter by surrounding herself with a great team. Whether it’s Mona Scott-Young and the L&HH senior team (including my dear friend Stephanie Gayle, overall Executive Producer for the L&HH Franchise), her manager, A&R, or her glam squad, Cardi has enlisted an A-list team that truly believes in her and has the expertise to take her to the top. We all need help to help our dreams come true. Surround yourself with smart, strategic industry insiders to help you advance in your field. 

7.   Ensure your brand has synergy by making sure everything you do stays “on brand” and connected to your core: We all have a rough side, a far-from-perfect side, which is why so many people “get” Cardi B. She has created a brand based on her Cinderella story. Everything she does, from hosting parties, to booking shows, to media appearances, is designed to help her stay “on brand” and “on message.” What’s the core of your personal brand and how can you find ways and opportunities to help portray your core in the best way?

Whether you are a hardcore Hip Hop fan or someone who never heard of Cardi B or her music before today, this dynamic, smart and talented artist has lots to teach any professional trying to make a name for themselves. This week pick one of these seven professional branding strategies and start applying these successful tactics to help cultivate and strengthen your professional brand.

ASK Patrice – No Interviews, No Callbacks, Just Follow These Simple Steps

 Dear Patrice, I am having NO luck changing careers. I recently paid someone to update my resume to reflect my new education and experience but no one is showing any interest or call to bring me in for an interview.  HELP?

This week check us out on social media for simple ideas and information tips to help you make your career change happen.

How to Make a Name for Yourself BEFORE You Can Make a Career for Yourself

Everyone’s career path unfolds in a uniquely different way. However, in order to find career success, we each must first find a way to professionally differentiate ourselves from others. Here are seven (7) ways to make a name for yourself in any field.

1.    Boldly share your story: While most people are content to keep many of their certain life experiences solely private – many people have made a name for themselves by sharing their lives with others. Everyone has a compelling story that can inspire others to navigate a similar life and similar career.

2.   Excel at something that is visible to others: In 1989 I met a very successful party promoter named Sean Combs in Washington, D.C. In 1994, I met the same person whose name had changed to Sean “Puffy” Combs who was fired from Uptown and founded his own record label Bad Boy Records (Entertainment). At the time, we were both working with Entertainment publicist Terry Williams. About a decade later, our paths crossed once again backstage at the VIBE music festival when he was known to the world as Diddy. Although the actual name Sean Combs calls himself has changed over the years - there is no disputing that he has made a successful career for himself because he first made a name for himself throwing a damn good party and become one of the hardest working free interns in the Industry.

3.   Become a subject matter expert: Before Dr. Phil became Dr. Phil he was a successful, high paid legal consultant specializing in jury selection. he was THE go-to guy for millionaires involved in serious law suits. Before his TV career, he was hired by Oprah when she was being sued by the U.S. Beef Council during the “mad cow” epidemic for making a derogatory remark about “never eating beef again.” Phil McGraw was instrumental in helping Oprah win the case. Being a subject matter expert opened the door to Dr. Phil becoming a self-help expert and then the host of his own show for the past 14 years.  

4.   Be memorable: Judge Judith Sheindlin used to work in the family court system in Southern District/Manhattan county in New York City. She developed a reputation for her in-your-face personality, no nonsense attitude and quick wit. After making a name for herself as a Judge with a big “personality,” Judge Judy created a successful career as the world’s most famous TV Judge and executive producer who currently makes $45 million a year.  

5.   Create a track record of success: One of the things that helped accelerate my career at AT&T/Lucent Technologies was that I quickly developed a reputation for being calm under pressure and excelling at high-risk, high-reward projects. After just a few assignments, the division’s Senior Directors and VPs started requesting me to work on their projects. As my name traveled through the “corporate grapevine,” it eventually made its way to my Senior Vice President who then selected me for key international and CEO-level assignments.

6.   Score a home run on one key project: Carolyn Davidson was a student at Portland State when she met Phil Knight (co-founder and chairman emeritus of Nike Inc.,) She was paid $35 in 1971 to design the company’s Swoosh logo. At the time, Phil Knight told her “I don’t love it but maybe it will grow on me.” Although she was later gifted 500 shares of stock now valued at approximately $645,000 – she received the priceless gift of bragging rights for creating one of the world’s most iconic logos. Since 1971, Davidson went on to have a successful career in part because she knocked this ONE key project “out of the park.”

7.   Adopt a professional nickname, moniker, or tagline: One way to develop a name for yourself in any field is to give yourself a new name that people will remember. Leonard McKelvey a.k.a.  Charlamange Tha God is the co-host of the nationally syndicated morning radio show on The Breakfast Club with DJ Envy and Angela Lee.   Sometimes the name we create for ourselves is also the name we give to ourselves. Even those who work outside the entertainment industry, can create a professional name for themselves.

This week as you seek to make a new or better career, remember that you first need to make a name for yourself. Making a name for yourself will open doors, create new opportunities and be the secret to you developing a successful career in any field or industry.

Seven Easy Steps to File a Customer Service Complaint and Hone Your Business Negotiation Skills in the Process

Picture this. It’s December 2019. You’re placing online orders and shopping, buying gifts for friends and family. Everything is going well in 2020 until you encounter a customer service rep who is ‘far from pleasant.’ When faced with this customer issue, are you the type of person who asks to speak to someone in authority? Or do you simply let it go?

Truth is, most people don’t understand or exercise their rights as a consumer. Often people don’t stand up for themselves because they don’t like confrontation or think holding others accountable means you’re a “jerk” or a bad person.

Embrace a “New York” state of mind by speaking up for yourself and requesting that others acknowledge and apologize for their wrong doing.  Being a great consumer advocate is a great way to practice your business and negotiation skills outside of the workplace. Here are seven (7) things to consider the next time a person, brand or business fails to meet your expectations.

1.     Educated consumers know their rights: We have all heard the saying - “the customer is always right.” However, you need only check out Yelp or Trip Advisor for a few minutes to discover that many businesses don’t live by this adage. It’s your job as an educated customer to remind others that when in doubt – they should err on the side of the customer.

2.     If it’s displayed in print then businesses have to honor it: For example, if the shelf tag or coupon says 50% off your item/purchase but you are charged full price at the register - kindly ask the sales associate or manager to honor that price in print. By law, if a promotional sign is visibly posted, the business has to sell it to you at the “advertised” price. Remember, it’s not your fault that some employee forgot to take down the sign from last week’s sale.

3.     Time is money and you should request to be “compensated” when inconvenienced: Let’s say you’re in a clothing store and end up waiting 15 minutes for the associate to ring your purchase twice (once at a broken register and a second time at a register on another floor.) - what should you do? Politely ask to speak to the manager, explain the situation and the inconvenience you experienced. Chances are you will receive an immediate apology and/or a coupon for a future purchase.

4.     Share feedback with restaurant management after you receive your food: We all have had a negative experience at a restaurant – long wait, bad food, receiving the wrong order. As someone who has worked in a restaurant, trust me when I say you can and should ask for problems to be corrected - just make sure you do so pleasantly and politely. Then AFTER you have received your food as you ordered it, ask to speak to the manager. Almost all food service businesses have coupons and comp cards for this very reason. And, if the manager fails to offer anything, be direct and ask that they make things right by taking the problematic item off the bill or ask if you can receive a free appetizer or dessert the next time you are in. Remember, we get in life what we have the courage to ask for.

5.     Document and escalate the issue in writing: It’s one thing to voice your disappointment verbally to someone. However, chances are that person will tell you what you want to hear and then forget about you and your problem. It is far more powerful to take the time to document your feedback in an email or old-school letter. When it comes to customer service complaints, less than 20% of people actually put things in writing. Your words (and feedback) will have much power – when it appears writing. A simple and concise letter to the company’s corporate headquarters can result in free services, perks and extras.

6.     Demand the 3 A’s when you have not received great service: Anytime you feel that you have been wronged, expect and demand three things: (1) an acknowledgment of what happened; (2) an apology for how you were treated and/or for the inconvenience; and (3) for the company to acquiesce - that is do something to make things right. Practicing the art of asking for these three things in a confident, non-confrontational way, can help you develop and hone strong negotiation skills that can be invaluable in your professional life or business.

7.     Return products that are poorly made or break even after the warranty: Many people may think they are out of luck when a product breaks unless they have an extended warranty. However, many manufacturers and stores who pride themselves on providing exceptional customer service will often allow you to exchange a broken product or receive a store credit. All you need to do is to know when and how to ask.

Being an educated consumer can actually make you much more successful in business and in your professional life.

Know your rights as a consumer and start finding ways to hold others accountable for their product, manufacturing, and service defects. This week, when someone fails to meet your expectations – take a breath and a moment – then speak up for yourself.