Career Coaching with Jessness

You've always known you want to write a book.

Do you have a book idea burning a hole in your soul?

Do you want to bring your book idea to life, but you're not sure where to start?

This episode is for you!

Tune in as I share my personal insights on my process for writing my books. From the gestation phase to organizing ideas to writing your first draft. You'll enjoy this if you are an aspiring author or anyone curious about the creative process behind book writing.

Highlights:

• The gestation phase of writing a book
• How to organize ideas and themes
• Creating a flushed outline for clarity
• The importance of keeping the first draft private
• Tools and systems for capturing ideas
• The role of self-discovery in writing
• Balancing routine and spontaneity in creativity
• The iterative process of outlining and drafting
• Insights from my personal writing journey

My fav writing books:

On Writing by Stephan King - https://amzn.to/3JmX0Lz

Writing Down the Bones - https://amzn.to/3HiZk3w

The War of Art - https://amzn.to/3yDnrGg

My books, Journals and Publications:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3
• Self-Discovery Journal - https://amzn.to/4cCdX3f
• MOMHOOD, Publication on Substack - https://gazay.substack.com/

This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

We're continuing the maternity leave / workplace fun with today's episode where I share practical tips and compassionate strategies for managers on how they can support employees returning from maternity leave.

When managers and company's support women returning to work, they won't just have a dedicated worker but a loyal employee for life.

BE NICE TO MOMS. By the time they get to work they've already done 82 things.

If you are a working mom, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/

National Working Mother's Week is this week! (Sept 21 - 25): https://www.motheredmedia.com/national-working-motherhood-week

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

What up! In this episode, I share what I'm coining as my "work report card!" A new series where I share how the journey back to work after maternity leave is going.

Tune in to explore the emotional, physical, and environmental challenges I faced. Plus, my insights on the key areas that companies, managers, and coworkers forget about moms returning to the workplace.

If you are a mom returning to work, thinking about it, planning for it, or in the thick of it - I SEE YOU. YOU ARE NOT MISUNDERSTOOD HERE. And I am ROOTING FOR YOU w/ ALL MY HEART. Yes, all caps are necessary!

Highlights:

• The emotional and physical impact of separation from your baby
• Environmental changes and discomfort in the workplace
• Identity shifts and personal transformation post-maternity leave
• The importance of support and understanding from colleagues and managers
• Research on skills gained from motherhood that benefit work
• The experience of feeling out of place and the time warp effect
• The significance of community and shared experiences in motherhood

Episode sound bites:

• Returning to work after maternity leave is an ongoing, evolving process.
• Support from colleagues and managers is crucial for a smooth transition.
• Motherhood brings significant identity shifts that are often unseen.
• Physical separation from the child can be emotionally and physically taxing.
• Research shows moms return with enhanced operational skills.
• Sharing experiences helps reduce feelings of isolation and guilt.
• Preparation, support, and understanding can ease the return process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and overview of the return to work journey

01:54 The emotional and physical impact of separation from the child

04:10 Research on skills moms gain from maternity leave

06:04 Environmental challenges and discomfort in the workplace

07:56 Identity changes and personal transformation

09:46 Mom guilt, anxiety, and the pressure to perform

12:03 The experience of feeling out of place and the time warp effect

13:57 Strategies for managing the return and seeking support

16:13 The importance of community and shared experiences

18:05 Reflections on the journey and future outlook

If this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/

National Working Mother's Week, learn more and register (Sept 21 - 25): https://www.motheredmedia.com/national-working-motherhood-week

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

In this episode, I respond to me at 39-weeks pregnant (from last podcast, episode 19) and share the real real of how maternity leave went down.

I cover my postpartum journey...the identity shifts, fears, personal insights, challenges, and the deep transformation that comes with motherhood. (And I'm only 6 months out, WOW)

If this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/

Key Topics

• Postpartum identity shifts
• Fear and vulnerability in new motherhood
• Impact of societal expectations on new moms
• Body image and self-worth postpartum
• Community and support systems for mothers
• The emotional rollercoaster of postpartum mood swings
• Redefining productivity and self-value
• The importance of self-compassion in motherhood

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

In this episode, I'm 39 weeks pregnant, reflecting on how I plan to approach maternity leave. I share the fears and feelings coming up for me and the intentions and mindsets I plan to take with me into this phase.

Expect to hear reflections on:

1. Anticipation and the Unknown

2. Downshifting Without Losing Your Edge

3. Understanding the Source of Fear

4. Redefining Your Edge

5. Reframing Maternity Leave

Highlights:

- Anticipation of motherhood can bring excitement and fear.

- Downshifting energy does not mean losing your sense of self.

- Understanding the source of fear is crucial in navigating transitions.

- Redefining your edge involves embracing adaptability and intuition.

- Reframing maternity leave can transform it into a powerful growth experience.

If this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

In this episode, I discuss my career journey and the various actions that have contributed to my growth. You'll hear me emphasize the importance of pursuing passion projects, leveraging side gigs, seeking feedback, and maintaining a positive mindset.

We'll talk: exploring career opportunities and the significance of self-reflection in professional development. You know it all comes back to self-discovery over here ;)

Checkout some episode sound bites:

• Your career does not need to fulfill all your hopes and dreams.
• Passion projects can be started without waiting for permission.
• Talking about your interests can lead to unexpected career opportunities.
• Asking for feedback regularly accelerates personal growth.
• Mindset is crucial; small changes can have a big impact.
• Don't put authority figures on pedestals; treat them as equals.
• Invest in your development and ask for reimbursement when possible.
• Exploring other departments can provide valuable insights.
• Self-reflection is key to understanding your career satisfaction.
• Prioritize impactful actions to avoid burnout.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Career Growth and Development

01:52 The Importance of Passion Projects

05:16 Leveraging Side Gigs for Career Advancement

09:10 Investing in Personal Development

13:01 Challenging Authority and Building Confidence

15:52 Proactive Feedback Seeking

17:43 Mindset and Affirmations in the Workplace

20:26 Exploring Career Opportunities and Self-Reflection

Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links

Q for you: Rate a career move you've taken 1 - 10 and share it with me!

DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/

Connect:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/
• Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter

This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
  
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

In this episode, I give you 10 career cheat codes to help you grow faster, stand out, and stop playing small at work. If you want rapid career growth, are going for a promotion, and want to be more confident at work, this is for you.

We run through them one after another with no fluff in between, so hit play and start implementing today.

Some bites from the episode:

• Assign yourself deadlines publicly and consistently meet them.
• Use public settings to establish trust.
• Follow up with emails that outline promises and deadlines.
• Building trust is essential for professional growth.
• Cross-functional meetings can enhance visibility and accountability.
• Expand your professional network.
• Accountability leads to greater career opportunities.

Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links

Q for you: Which cheat code is your favorite?

DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/

Connect:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/
• Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter

This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
  
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

Continuing the series on ChatGPT, today I share 3 more tips on how to use it to be a better employee.

You will see just how messy these prompts can be. I share verbatim what prompts I used for three more use cases - using chatGPT:

• To prep for a tough conversation
• Performance evals
• As a thought partner

Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links

Q for you: How are you using chatGPT these days?

DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/

Connect:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/
• Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter

This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
  
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

Let’s be real, work is moving fast, and if you’re not using tech to work smarter, you’re doing too much. In this episode of Career Coaching with Jessness, we’re continuing the AI and ChatGPT series with three more tips today.

This month is all about AI, both podcast episodes focus on maximizing how you use AI and how to use ChatGPT as a powerful tool for professional growth.

(As always) I’m sharing practical, no-fluff tips you can actually use to sharpen your skills, boost your effectiveness, and make a real impact at work no matter your role or industry.

Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links

Q for you: What tip shared today is your fav?

DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/

Connect:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/
• Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter

This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
  
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

​Anyone who knows me KNOWS I love job interviews, but in order to practice the art of interviewing? You have to land the interview! 

​Applying for jobs can feel like a full-time job in itself, and getting no's or just not hearing back after putting in the work to apply can be so frustrating. In this episode we talk about why you're not being invited to interview.

​I share from ​m​y extensive experience in recruiting​ and outline the top ten reasons for this phenomenon, including failing pre-screen questions, misalignment between hiring managers and recruiters, and the importance of personal branding on platforms like LinkedIn. 

​

Nothing is going to beat persistence in the job application process​, so keep going!! That, mixed with the practical tips​ here will enhance ​y​our chances of success.

​H​it the Highlights
00:00 Introduction to Career Coaching and Job Hunting
03:21 Top 10 Reasons You're Not Getting Interviews
17:14 Bonus Tips for Job Hunting and Building Your Brand

Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links

Connect:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/
• Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter

This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order

My books:

• Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57
  
• YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3