One of the biggest challenges I have had in my career is the subject of compensation. For most of my career, I accepted what was given to me, trusting my manager to fight for me. The reality is that while managers try to be fair, they also want to pay the amount that keeps you “satisfied” while not overpaying you compared to the market and your peer group. So a couple of lessons learned: Continue reading
Successfully Changing Lanes
Lately, a few people have reached out because they’re pursuing new roles…sometimes out of company, out of industry, out of functional expertise. Some of the things they’ve done which worked for them include:
When You Can’t Stand Someone At Work
It happens. You’re pretty happy with your work situation, and then someone gets hired…and you can’t stand them. Their tone is dismissive, they don’t do what they say, they hoard information, keep you out of key meetings. I know what you’d like to do…..but what should you do? Continue reading
Better: Permission or Forgiveness?
Has anyone noticed the new trend of what I call “apologetic” advertising? Wells Fargo, Facebook, Uber….all beautifully crafted, earnest, with a “we’re the good guys” narrative.
Here’s the problem…when widespread problems happen in a company, it’s because of culture. Yes, a leader can definitely promote a culture…but it also needs a lot of other forces at work. Here are the warning signs I’ve seen…. Continue reading
Leveraging Work Skills in Life
Unfortunately, I’ve had some experience in dealing with loved ones who face serious medical issues. It’s the worst combination of feeling completely helpless, ignorant (everyone is an expert but you), and having it be someone you love. So here’s what I’ve learned…. Continue reading
How Do You Make Others See Value?
Got a great question…someone asked me how you demonstrate value when you work in the softer functions?
In many companies, there’s an unspoken pecking order, usually with sales or anything revenue driven being first. Often at the bottom are the “support” functions…like communications. Having been a COO, I can definitely relate to how challenging that can be….a couple of suggestions should you find yourself in this type of role….
Happiness
New York Magazine recently had an interesting article called “Get Happier” focused on a class taught at Yale by Professor Santos. She designed a course that focuses on positive psychology. It’s a great article for so many reasons…. Continue reading
Changing Lanes
When people look to change jobs, often it’s staying in a similar role but changing the company. What if you’re looking to change industries entirely? Someone asked me to do a mock interview with them, and here’s some of the questions to be prepared for…. Continue reading
What Companies Get Wrong about Inclusion
The discussion of inclusion is now top of mind for many companies. It’s no longer a “tick the box exercise”….now managers are being held accountable for the culture and environments fostered in their companies. As an Asian female who worked in financial institutions, here is my take on what companies need to watch out for….
“Dripping”
Sometimes I’ll think of someone I haven’t spoken to in awhile. For whatever reason, they pop in my head. I used to ignore it, but now I do something different.