Looking for guidance or inspiration? The Now What blog is packed with free advice, tips, and real-world insights to help you navigate work and life with confidence.
As one reader shares, "Amanda embodies what an ideal HR professional should be—empathetic, understanding, and solution-focused. She stands out by prioritizing needs while creating a truly unique and supportive approach."
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Sitting in the Uncomfortable
We’ve all experienced moments of discomfort, whether it’s asking for a raise, giving critical feedback, or tackling a challenging conversation. As an HR professional with over a decade of experience, I’ve learned that enduring these moments of unease can lead to remarkable outcomes.
Networking Strategies for Introverts
You’re in a dilemma: You’re an introvert and you’re registered for a networking event. Now what? As a fellow extreme introvert, I can deeply relate to the mix of anticipation and anxiety this brings.
Navigating Internal Job Opportunities
Recently, a friend of mine faced an exciting opportunity to transition into a different role within their organization. At first glance, this new position seemed like a perfect fit: it aligned with their long-term career aspirations, offered stimulating challenges, and had the potential to boost their visibility and influence within the company.
I Work Remotely… Now What?
Someone recently asked me how to manage a team successfully in a remote environment and I thought I knew the answer until I started working at a fully remote company. I worked remotely at my previous company but we didn’t start that way, so I had a lot of credibility and relationship equity built up by the time I started managing people remotely.
Building Resilience In Your Career
Resilience is a characteristic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—especially when it comes to career development. Some people seem to have it naturally, while others develop it over time. Some harness resilience as a superpower to navigate challenges, while others struggle and risk losing their drive altogether.
Curiosity Matters
As someone who has spent years in HR, I’ve witnessed firsthand how leading with curiosity can transform interactions and improve outcomes. Here’s why fostering a curious mindset can make a world of difference in your professional life and how you can cultivate it.
How to Get Buy-In
Gaining buy-in for a new idea, project, or change is a critical skill in the workplace. Whether you’re pitching a new project, proposing a significant change, or trying to secure support for your latest initiative, the ability to effectively garner support is essential for success. Here’s a strategic approach to ensure you gain the buy-in you need to make your ideas a reality.
I Don’t Know What I’m Doing
Growth happens by doing, not by planning. If you’re always waiting to be ready, you’ll never accomplish anything. Call it imposter syndrome, a lack of confidence, or just being human—whatever you name it, I don’t think I’m alone in feeling like I don’t know what I’m doing most of the time. There are days when I look around and think, “How did I get here?”
You Think You’re Underpaid—Now What?
Feeling underpaid can be frustrating and demoralizing, especially when you’re confident in the value you bring to your role. However, addressing compensation concerns requires a strategic approach. Handling this situation with the right tactics can make all the difference. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the conversation about your pay.
Building Relationship Deposits
In the professional world, relationships are as crucial as skills and experience. One concept that has profoundly influenced my approach to building and maintaining professional relationships is the idea of "relationship deposits." I first encountered this concept early in my career, and it’s a principle I strive to practice daily.
Difficult Personalities
In any workplace, you’re likely to encounter a range of personalities, some of which can present challenges. Understanding these behaviors and learning effective strategies to manage them can help maintain a positive work environment. Here’s a guide to handling various difficult personalities while focusing on the problem rather than the person.
Building Your Personal Brand
Your personal brand is one of the most valuable assets you have. Think of it as the story people tell about you when you’re not in the room. It’s about how you’re perceived based on your actions, interactions, and overall presence.
Finding Your Dream Job
When I first applied for jobs out of college in the accounting industry, there was one firm that I had my heart set on. They were perfect and I wanted in - bad. My mentor at the time advised me not to put all of my eggs in one basket. So, I didn’t.
Apply To The Job
I have a secret to share with you: you don’t need to have all the qualifications listed on a job posting before applying. Recently, I met with a client who was excited about a job opportunity but felt discouraged because they didn’t meet every requirement. My response? Apply to the job!
I'm Thinking of a Career Shift - Now What?
Are you considering a career shift? Whether you’re feeling stuck in your current job or have a burning desire to pursue something new, it’s important to navigate the transition thoughtfully. Let me share my story.
Leaving Your Job with Grace
A friend recently asked me how I managed to leave a job gracefully. It’s an interesting question because, looking back, I've always left my jobs on good terms. I stay in touch with former colleagues, would be happy to run into any of them again, and never worry about receiving a poor reference.
Navigating Social Media Connections in the Workplace
Your social media profiles serve as windows into your life, so as you start creating a professional reputation for yourself, you need to think carefully about your social media presence online: who can see it, what you are posting, and what kind of message you are sending to the world.
Mastering Your Individual Development Plan
In moments of uncertainty, I recognized the importance of a roadmap – an IDP. It would have provided clarity and direction, helped to articulate my aspirations, identify areas for growth, and craft actionable strategies to achieve my goals.
Job Vs. Career V.s Calling
Recently, someone asked me a question that got me thinking: “What is the difference between a job, a career and a calling?” Let’s break it down.
Get to the Point
One of the most important skills in your professional toolbelt is the ability to get to the root of an issue. Throughout my career, I’ve seen countless instances where people dive headfirst into solving a problem without truly understanding what they’re tackling. Often, when people attempt to find a solution, they’re asking the wrong questions.