During our phone coaching session Natalie described how she often was offered temporary employment, but never seemed to be the one chosen for a permanent position. She also related that her employment agency received glowing reports about her and that she was beginning to have some trouble with getting past some interviews. So what’s going on?

The biggest clue came when I asked Natalie if she had any unusual physical characteristics. TOP

She hesitated, sighed and said, "I'm really pretty". With this we began to unravel the mysteries surrounding her experiences. Not only was Natalie "pretty", she is shapely and a fashionable dresser as well. These attributes are a poor fit for working in an office setting where being "invisible" and efficient are the prevailing expectations and values. Add to this Natalie’s strong and engaging personality, her particular locale in New Jersey, and the mismatch is complete.

Natalie reminds me of the thousands of attractive, vivacious and bright out-of-work actresses here in Los Angeles who populate the ranks of waitresses in trendy restaurants. She mentioned that she has been considering looking for work in New York City as she is a better fit for the cultural work norms there. We both agreed that Natalie would be happier and more at home in sales or some aspect of modeling.‡  Natalie told me that she had "been thinking about" going into sales as she has been a company salesperson and really enjoyed it. She could picture herself as very content and very successful as a salesperson. Her current personal attributes would become assets. She hadn't considered modeling because she is only 5'4".  Sales is a solid long term goal; modeling works in well with transitional work as most jobs are less than an hour each. TOP

Natalie’s next step will be to contact a friend who is in pharmaceutical sales± to get reacquainted with the world of sales.

Here is Natalie’s action plan:

• Continue temp work while transitioning into sales

• Simplify style of dress and presentation for temp work

• Keep work conversation polite but not overly friendly

• Begin monthly visits to New York to check into the possibilities for sales and modeling positions. TOP

± Most Pharmaceutical Outside Sales positions require a minimum of a Bachelors Degree.  Several in the medical industry require a Masters or Medical Background.  Many of these large companies offer tuition reimbursement if the courses tie into the position.  It is possible to begin in a support capacity, attain the degree with company assistance and work into the position. 

‡ Contrary to popular belief, modeling is not just for the mega-attractive or over 5'8" crowd.  A large market exists for more commercial looks in large sizes (12+), over forty, petites and especially minorities. To become involved you'll need a book, composite and an agent.  The best way to do this is take modeling classes at your local modeling school.  Agents regularly tour and sign new talent.  The school will help you create a book  This will cost some money but even if it doesn't work into a career, the self-confidence, poise and posture you'll gain is worth every cent. Modeling schools are today's equivalent of past era Finishing Schools.

Next month’s Coach’s Corner will focus on a relationship dilemma: "How can I safely find out if my male friend would consider becoming a committed lover??

How does coaching work?

 Regular telephone or in person meetings where the coach asks pertinent questions, follows up on action items and illuminates the barriers that keep you from your goals.

How is it any different from therapy?

Therapy helps us to heal from past traumas, counseling offers ways to get through each day.

Coaching is about moving forward and achieving your goals with what you have now.