how to know if you should leave your career, frustrated girl biting pencil

How To Know If You Should Leave Your Current Career

 

Walk away from anything that doesn’t serve you. Whether that means to leave your career, to disengage from a toxic relationship, to separate from something debilitating, this is a life-altering change. This quote has resonated with me deeply in my twenties, as this has been a period of growth, strength, and selfish pursuit.

Sometimes, however, I question the validity of this empowering statement. The way I read it, is that it’s not necessarily about walking away, but about identifying what it is that no longer serves you and parting ways with that person or thing. Knowing the fundamental difference between ‘bad’ and ‘good’ can keep you from leaving something that’s challenging, but necessary to your growth. And once you understand what is positive and what is truly negative, knowing when to leave your career becomes a process and decision that feels right and considerably less stressful.

If you feel like you’re battling whether to leave or stay, this list is for you. If you’re standing with one foot halfway out the door and the other stuck in place, this list is for you. And if you’re searching for, and pursuing other opportunities, while still rooted to your current job, this list is for you. Here are some thoughts to help ground you, inspire you, and reveal the signs that it might be time to leave your career for something that fits and feels right. Continue reading →

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Episode 11 — There Is Power In Simply Starting

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It’s been a while. I feel like I’ve said that so often in the last few months, as I’ve attempted (and failed) to juggle a lot more than I originally planned. In launching my business and freelancing full-time, I’m struggling. Not to mention trying (desperately) to keep up with everyday life. It’s hard! And I’ve been faced with a lot of fear about simply starting.

But there is power in simply starting. There is power in saying “yes,” in stepping forward, in trying—even if you’re not quite ready. Continue reading →

landing your first client, people sitting together at table

How To Land Your First Client

Among the scares and stresses of being an independent contractor or business owner is finding (and implementing) strategies for landing your first client. Finding someone to use your goods or services requires work, a good bit of branding, social media marketing, and, of course forward steps on your end.

At first it might feel like this process is daunting. Or, perhaps, the opposite—maybe this seems like a breeze! Wherever you stand, it’s important to learn strategies for landing clients and find people who will buy into what you’re trying to market and sell. And that process begins with a few essential steps.
 
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5 Simple Ways To Register To Vote

Being an active citizen, caring about issues in our country, and standing up for what you believe is infinitely important, especially in today’s political climate. Action is more than just words or posts on social media, though. It’s more than arguments on Facebook and sharing passionate videos. Action is involvement. It’s backing up the words you say or share with decisions, choices, and movement. It’s writing letters to public and political figures, donating to different causes, and perhaps most importantly, backing beliefs with a vote.

With today being National Voter Registration Day, here are 5 fast and simple ways to make sure you’re registered. Continue reading →

building a strong client base, people working together at table

How To Build A Strong Client Base

In order to develop and sustain a successful career or business, you must first build a strong client base. Starting a network, growing relationships, and tapping into those connections before, during, and even after a job or contract is over will keep your company strong. And, of course, keep you in business (aka: making money).

When it comes to growing a strong client base, everything starts with your approach. Not only is it important to establish yourself and your brand, but it’s crucial to build relationships. You don’t want to be too ‘salesy’ or impersonal in your approach! Whether you’re a freelancer, business owner, or somewhere in-between, focus on connections. Creating these connections will lay the foundation for your business and give you a loyal and engaged following—essential for growth and success.

It’s important, especially when you’re starting out, to remember that your clients will be clients. There’s no reason to be fake, overly friendly, or cross the line between professional and personal. However, forming genuine bonds will directly impact the future of your business, so don’t be afraid to be your most authentic self.

Whether you’re curious about how to build a strong client base or looking to change your approach, here are some tips to get you on the right track.
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How To Create A Unique Brand

If you use social media or are involved in the online industry in some way, you’ve probably heard of the buzzword branding. This term has been used to describe anything from social media color schemes, to website layouts, to sponsored content. However, what branding truly means is identity. Creating a unique brand will not only help you and your work stand out, but give you a niche in your industry that will bring you more opportunities, clients, and jobs.

Creating a unique brand is all about knowing yourself and what you want to present to potential employers. You’ll first want to focus on what sets you apart from the competition and what you can label as ‘you.’ If you’re a writer, you’ll want to consider your style and voice. For a lifestyle blogger, you might want to consider your geographical location, or what type of content you share: tips, info on current events, etc. From there, you’ll want to reshape everything around your purpose. Is your goal to inform? Entertain? Inspire? Think about what you’re wanting to do with your work and career and use that to shape your branding goals.

When you think about what identifies as ‘you’ and your work, what goal you’re looking to serve, and what’s essential to your business (if you’re a potential or developed business owner), you can start creating a unique brand that will legitimize you, and bring you potential customers. Continue reading →