Blogs

I have clients throughout the world in various stages of their career arcs. Yet, regardless of the geography, industry, or the client’s age one common problem surfaces often, more than most. This problem deals with graduating from being an individual contributor to the first-level manager role.

There is much mystery—and interest--around the topic of executive presence. To different people it means different things. In simple terms it means your ability to influence, create an impact, and to show your value not just in a challenging situation, but always. The following are the main vectors for improving your executive presence:
1. How you look
2. How you dress
3. What you say

Clients in the job-search mode often come to me after they have fumbled an interview. They also come to me when they are sure that they did well in responding to the various questions thrown at them during a tough interview process. In such cases what puzzles them is how, despite their spot-on responses that they did not get the job offer they were counting on.

For over one month prior to a new year, people begin to think about new years resolutions and what goals they wish to achieve. Most of these people had failed to follow through with their resolutions in the previous year and thus attempt to try again. The problem is, most resolutions are inherently flawed and are destined to not be completed.

It is that time when many reflect on the year gone by and determine what they may have done differently to change the course of their outcomes in matters of their career and job. In December I have unusually high requests for coaching sessions, most of which focus on clients’ Annual Performance Reviews and also a review of their careers.

A large part of my career and life coaching practice focuses on my clients’ relationships with their bosses. It is no surprise that a large percentage of the bosses are either incompetent, non-caring, or know how to “succeed” only by managing upwards well! It is also well known that nearly 80% of the managers (or bosses) belong to this class.

We saw it happen. Tunisia overthrowing its incompetent government. The Egyptian revolution ousting its dictator. Ireland's abortion laws coming around. The US considering congressional action on gun control. It's your turn, India. You hold the power! People power! You can do it too. CHANGE! Here's what I'm talking about:

(For the past two-plus months I missed posting my weekly blogs due to my attending to some of my medical needs. I was away taking care of those and now I am fine. Sorry for that gap!)

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This ThanksGiving November, as I look back on my life within the framework of my goals, vision, commitments and passion, I wonder about what gives life meaning. Especially in the wake of Superstorm Sandy, I wonder if I have learned how to live life to the fullest. If this were the end of the world as we know it, I wonder what I would say. Two words glare into focus...THANK YOU!!