The Go Getter Girl’s Guide (How to Get What You Want and Look Great While You’re at It!) is a must read for every girl (and woman) looking to build a successful career in corporate America or as an entrepreneur. In this practical, insightful and candid look at the world of work, Debra Shigley covers everything from networking to make-up in her guide for ambitious professional women. Her writing comes across in the tone of a more experienced girlfriend imparting words of wisdom based on first-hand experience in the trenches of corporate America.
A well heeded theme throughout the book is that it’s okay for women (of all ages) to acknowledge and embrace their ambition. This message is much needed in a typical environment that subtly sets expectations that women be less assertive and what Debra refers to as a “go-along girl” in order to get ahead. While promoting the right and need to be assertive negotiators at work, the book is also honest about the role of appearance. There is a whole chapter focused on good grooming tips boldly titled – Natural Beauty is B.S. While Shigley makes it clear that appearance is important, she is also clear that it is equally, if not more important to know your stuff.
Weaved throughout the story is the author’s own experience as she navigated her way from law student to journalist to stylist to lifestyle expert. She’s had several successful career makeovers with each one helping her build experience and skills for the next opportunity. Her background lends credibility to the book: she has practiced what she is preaching. Or in this case sharing with candor and honesty.
Although the title might make it appear that the book is intended for younger or newly corporate women, the content is appropriate for any woman looking for advice on how to create the professional success she wants and deserves. The book is full of stories and words of wisdom shared by “Go –Getter” women who have successfully navigated their way to professional success, some inside and some outside of corporate America as entrepreneurs.
Favorite must read chapters:
- Learning the Art of Negotiation – check out the section on raises.
- Knowing When to Quit - a list of good and bad reasons to leave a job
- The World Can Be a Cold Hard Place: Good advice – It’s better to regroup and re-strategize than fixate on a negative situation.
The Go Getter’s Girl Guide is exactly the type of book I wish I’d had at the start of my career. The insight and advice found in its pages would have helped me move a lot further a lot faster. I highly recommend buying two copies of this book: one to keep for yourself and another to give away to a mentee or other young woman intent on building a successful career.
You can listen to my interview with Debra on Career Makeover Strategies on Blog Talk Radio here.
