NetKiEnt Career Blog

The interview: Preparing brings confidence, but over-rehearsing can kill it.  I answered a recent question from Quora that is a normal challenge for many interview candidates.  Many candidates over-prepare for the interview to increase their confidence and make a great impression.  However, because of their over-reliance on a "script" they often lose their confidence because they "missed" a key point or a word out of their script. Read more below: Does preparing for an interview hurt your spontaneity during the job interview? A savvy candidate would definitely prepare for the interview. However, It can go very wrong if the candidate over-rehearses. For this reason, I recommend to my clients to use bullet-points and not remember a script. A candidate who is over-reliant on a script can jeopardize the interview by doing the following: ·          Focusing more on the script than on the non-verbal cues of the interviewer and   engaging the interview

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a client who was distraught over humiliation she experienced at work after learning that many in her office believed she was only promoted because of Affirmative Action. She found it difficult to work because she wondered how many others held the same belief.  As I tried to convince and remind her that she earned her promotion, she questioned her abilities. The experience shattered her confidence.  Unfortunately, many people of color are challenged with this same experience. The stress of trying to fit-in to a culture that doesn't seem to include them or the responsibility of properly representing their race is a part of their norm. Navigating Around Workplace Bias describes their experience and provides tips on how to navigate around workplace bias.  If you have experienced discrimination of any type, report it. If the company has a process, go through the internal process first. The following resource can help determine what can

What fear are you allowing to keep you from moving forward in your career?   What are you telling yourself when you come across a position or goal that you are fully qualified for but keeps you from stepping out and doing it?   Why is it easier to believe that you can’t do it versus that you can? After all, it takes the same amount of energy so why not believe in the positive outcome? The reaction I often get when I ask new clients what they are most proud of in their career is usually an uncertain hesitation.   It’s as if they either do not see what they have accomplished as something to be celebrated or are uncomfortable with speaking about themselves.   Often, they have to take a minute to think about what it is they are proud of.   They shyly share an accomplishment but quickly dismiss it as insignificant. After I encourage them to share or elaborate, what once seemed uncertain or uncomfortable becomes a passionate, energetic discussion.   The reason why I ask this qu

Recently, I participated in the BMWOC3 podcast with Anne Alston from AlstnTec.  During the podcast I discuss my career transition from distribution management to career services. I share a funny story of when I was sent home on my first day as a distribution supervisor because I was over-dressed for a warehouse. I also share a moment when an employee attempted to remind who was in charge (It was a rough facility at the time). We also discuss the impact of ageism, having confidence and the importance of maintaining your personal brand.  Enjoy the podcast and let me know what you think!  Best, N -  Check out the podcast here:  AlstnTec BMWOC3 podcast

I have a page on Quora where I answer people who have career questions.  The reason why I do it is to share my knowledge with others who may not know what to do and/or can't necessarily afford my services. I get questions many times from people from other questions who don't have access to many of the things that we have in America.  This is my way of giving back.  I thought I'd share one of my responses with you.  This writer wanted to know how to write a resume if they were inexperienced. What is the best way to write a resume as an unexperienced worker? Writing a resume can be difficult for those who have much experience so it can feel impossible for those who have limited experience. Note that I said “ limited ” experience. We each have something that we do that we’re good at. Also, note that I said “ feel ” impossible. The truth is it’s not. The key is finding someone who wants what we have or who can use your skills. Don’t get caught up in how the resume loo

It’s 2018!  This is the year that will be different. It has to be for your sanity. Years of being in the same career that is rapidly changing or you’ve frankly outgrown is wearing on you. Perhaps you’ve been with a company where you’ve hit the brick wall or glass ceiling.  Maybe you’ve been out of work for a long time and you have now questioned your ability to even get hired. There has to be a change. This year has to be better. Many times, I meet clients who are unsure of the direction they want to go. I also meet clients who seem to know where they want to go but are unsure how to get there. There are others who know what they want to do, know how to get there, but simply aren’t motivated to do the work. Whatever the issue is, there are easy steps to help you figure it out. Build Your Career Strategy. Many people become intimidated by the concept of strategic planning or strategy building. It sounds overwhelming and complicated. However, it’s really pretty easy. The