As a professional speaker, it’s not uncommon to review presentation notes or nap on a 6 am, 5-hour flight to the east coast. So recently, when I woke up to witness my male seatmate peering over my tray table and reading my women’s career leadership notes, I was not surprised. Yet, his actions laid the…
Change is inevitable. As humans, we reject change naturally because we are creatures of habit. Even the most adventurous individuals often long for rituals and everyday normal routines. After all, consistency and control over our schedule lowers our stress. Yet, if you strive to be a leader and a person of influence in your place…
One of the questions I am asked as a speaker who teaches the power of relationship building is this: How can I be more influential in the workplace? You already understand the benefits of being an influential person at your place of work. People look up to you, respect you, etc., and this…
How did Kendra Scott go from designing jewelry out of her spare bedroom with a $500 investment in 2002 to being valued at $1 billion in recent months? This smart, savvy businesswoman knows and leverages the power of connection. Witnessing Kendra on the platform at a recent event, I walked away with certainty that your…
If you view office politics as a dirty, slimy way to get ahead, I’m here to suggest playing this game doesn’t have to be manipulative or sleazy. In fact, it’s one of the most direct, smart and savvy ways to make your mark and build connections with those that count. Yet, who can blame you…
“Did you do your homework?” my militant mother, a teacher by trade, would respond to my request to hang out with friends. Without a “yes” you did not pass go, nor collect $200. Rather you went directly to homework jail as work preceded reward. At the time, I despised her ridiculous rituals that restricted my…
No matter how kind, compassionate, or empathetic you have become, the moment you meet someone, the unconscious part of your brain instantly formulates a preliminary assessment of that person. Amy Cuddy, a Harvard Business School professor who’s been studying the science of first impressions for years, says the two basic questions the brain answers when…
I missed my evening connection at the airport, but that doesn’t compare to the amount of “missed connections” I witnessed during my layover. 1. Recognizing the missed flight was out of my control, I chose to let it go and instead enjoy a hot beverage from Starbucks before digging through email. The long line didn’t take…
Dear Colette, I’m determined to advance my career in 2016 which requires changing positions. Fortunately, I’m also attending numerous holiday parties and plan to use my network to get the word out. There will also be a few individuals in attendance I don’t know, but would like to approach. Any advice? -On the Move Dear…
Dear Colette, I’m at my wit’s end with my position. As others in my office have been let go due to decreasing budgets, my workload increases. I understand the situation and have taken more on without complaint. Yet, other managers within the office often come to me asking for support as well. I know better…