As I continue to read the articles and opinions that pop up each week on the topic of working motherhood, I’m struck by something often missing from these conversations: working motherhood is a) not always a choice or a decision based whatever the mom feels like doing and b) even when it is optional, it’s not a selfish act.   

Recently I had a moment of self-discovery. It wasn’t exactly a complete epiphany about who I am. It was more a rediscovery or redefinition of something I already knew about myself.

Something that I had never fully embraced. 

Something I had always considered a weakness.

It was empathy.

Yes, that was it. Empathy

If someone shares their story I instantly connect with it. I become immersed in the emotions they feel. I emphasize and then feel this drive to find a way to help and support them.

Sales is a game of numbers.  It is also the key to any business.  Sales means money.  Money means revenue and revenue means growth.

But sales people get that money by managing clients and accounts.  Therefore their networks are critical.  Often, when a sales person is hired, she is hired because of your client list.  The company wants access to the accounts to growth the business.

Do you charge what you are worth? Years ago, just out of culinary school I opened my first business. A catering company. I was hungry for any business and to grow my name. I never turned a party or event down. Whatever the budget I would work it out. Why shouldn’t I? I was the “new kid on the block”. 

It’s that time of year again when newly-minted college graduates are hitting the pavement in search of that career-launching job.  This year's outlook for graduating seniors is showing slight improvement over last year, but there's still every reason to stack the deck in favor of success.

The traditional value proposition that existed between companies and employers was structured around loyalty.  In exchange for services provided, dedication, long hours and commitment, the company would provide fair wages, benefits and retirement. Those days are long gone.

Alison Buckholtz’s book, Standing By: The Making of an American Military Family in a Time of War is a very powerful reminder that the families of those serving are also heroes in the War on Terror.  This Monday is Memorial Day a reminder to Americans that there are those who pay the ultimate sacrifice.  Their children and spouses will never have their loved ones to share in their accomplishments and majo

Returning to work after being at home takes confidence and direction.  Your resume needs to be specific and well-crafted to really sell your capabilities.  You want to eliminate any questions of "where is her priorities" or "can she really handle returning to the workforce".  So take the time to develop a blockbuster resume.

When I tell people I was a painfully shy kid, they look at me like I am joking.  I am a frequent speaker, mostly internally at my job these days.  I learned to present confidently even when I don’t feel it.  I forced myself each time I felt the piercing angst to walk into and through the feeling.  I didn’t want it to hold me back so I took it on as a personal challenge to defeat it.