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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The Value of a Trusted Consultant
In today’s fast-paced professional world, having a trusted consultant can make all the difference. As someone who has spent over a decade in HR, I’ve seen firsthand how pivotal guidance and support can be in shaping one’s career.
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.
Leading and Influencing Without a 'Leadership' Title
One of the most common mistakes young professionals make early in their careers is underestimating their power to lead and influence, even without an official "leadership" title. Many assume they must wait for a promotion to a position like "manager" or "supervisor" before they can step into leadership roles. However, the truth is that leadership begins long before any formal title is granted.
Effective Time Management For Career Success
One of the keys to career success is setting strong boundaries. If you need a refresher on how to establish these, check out our blog, “Boundaries That Work, at Work.” Once you have clear boundaries in place—like when you will and won’t be working—you can focus on maximizing the time you do spend working.
Building Trust and Credibility: A Key to Success in Any Career
In my career, I’ve had to be scrappy. I started in accounting, realized it wasn’t the right fit for me, and pivoted to a new role as an administrative assistant where I worked my way up to Director of People Operations by the time I was 30. Looking back on my journey, I can confidently say that one key element has kept me on track…
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.
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.
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.
Thanks for the Feedback
The most recent piece of feedback I received stopped me in my tracks. First, I was embarrassed. I knew my delivery wasn’t my best work but it was even more mortifying to realize that others noticed it as well. It felt like leaving the house on a bad hair day, hoping nobody would notice, only to find out it was worse than I thought.
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.
What Does Taylor Swift Have to Do with Your Career Success Anyway?
In honor of Taylor Swift’s latest album release, let’s hit pause and tune into a different kind of melody - Taylor’s business acumen. You don’t have to be a Swiftie to know that Taylor Swift has a knack for setting goals and crushing them (see her 12 Grammy Awards and multibillion dollar generating world tour). So, why not take a page from her playbook and step into your professional growth era!
Create Your Personal Board of Directors
During a casual lunch with a colleague, they mentioned their ‘personal board of directors’. I said, “I love that concept!” Interestingly, they replied, “I learned that from you!” On my drive home, after laughing at myself a bit, I started to think about how important and valuable a ‘personal board of directors’ is.
So You’ve Started a New Job
Whether you're interviewing for your first job ever or just a new job in general; there are basic fundamentals of interviewing that everyone must know and spoiler alert they're mostly common sense!