Your path to a
successful career

A refined introduction can lead to a powerful first impression and a lasting relationship. Learn about common mistakes (and how to avoid them) when introducing yourself here. 

A good introduction is a catalyst for conversation and relationship development. So, how you make and respond to introductions shapes the way others see you and can impact opportunities. Read more about how to make and receive a better introduction here. 

A good leader exudes confidence, charisma and holds a professional image. They also influence and inspire others through their executive presence.  Learn more about how to be a better leader and the makeup of executive presence here. 

Putting your best foot forward when interviewing is a must, yet too many people still make obvious mistakes that can leave a lasting, negative impression. Learn the most common interviewing mistakes and how to avoid them here.

As you advance your career, knowing how to write a professional bio is an important part of your personal brand. Companies commonly use bios to showcase their executive leadership, boards of directors/advisors, committees and event speakers. Find out how to write a better professional bio here. 

Sharing your time and talent with others isn’t just something to feel good about; volunteering pays off in different ways that ultimately can drive career advancement.

The efforts you put into volunteer activities are a worthwhile investment of time, whether you lead a professional association committee, serve on the board of a nonprofit, assist with an college alumni event, mentor students, act as a brand ambassador of a charitable organization or even roll up your sleeves on a relief project or mission.

Events of almost any kind provide great opportunities to “get out there” and increase your professional visibility and enable your personal brand to come to life. Whether it’s a conference, networking event, seminar, benefit or party, these gatherings provide an environment ripe for meeting others, expanding your network, building new relationships and strengthening existing ones.

First impressions matter, and your LinkedIn profile is often someone’s first (or second) impression of you when cultivating a professional relationship. Your profile is an important part of your personal brand and since you have complete control over what to include, it’s up to you to put your best foot forward in every section.

“Are you going to wear that?” How many of us heard our mothers ask this question when we were younger? She asked because she knew something important: first impressions matter. Even before you speak a word to someone, how you dress — and what you wear, specifically – can impact both the initial impression you make on others and their subsequent expectations about you. While your style alone cannot guarantee success professionally, it can help shape outcomes of business meetings, networking events and job interviews, for better or worse.

You benefit from a strong and current professional image whether or not you’re looking for a new job. Don’t wait until you’re considering a professional change to think about your public persona and how you’re perceived by others.

When you take time to assess and enhance your professional image, you’ll gain a competitive advantage, whether you aim to seek new clients, business opportunities, speaking engagements, managing accounts or — of course — consider a new job or board role. Executive and board search firms, who proactively seek out talent, may take notice of your current and consistent presentation, too.