What if your next career move could be the one that truly aligns with your strengths and passions? In a world where job markets shift rapidly and traditional career paths feel less certain, making informed choices is more critical than ever. Career decisions can shape not only your professional success but your personal fulfillment and resilience.
Seasoned voices like Daymond John, founder of FUBU and Shark Tank investor, emphasize clarity and action in career planning. His endorsement of Ashley Stahl’s You Turn highlights how discovering your authentic direction can unlock opportunities. Meanwhile, James Altucher, entrepreneur and author, champions the idea of strategic pivots, praising Jenny Blake’s Pivot for its pragmatic approach to career transitions. Loren Bouchard, creator of Bob’s Burgers, brings a unique perspective on creative industries, recommending Your Career in Animation for those carving paths in specialized fields.
While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific background, experience level, and goals might consider creating a personalized Career Choices book that builds on these insights and speaks directly to your unique journey.
Daymond John, founder of FUBU and Shark Tank investor, knows the importance of clear direction and purpose in career success. He calls this book "The ultimate career guide to help you discover your path in the workforce." His endorsement carries weight because he’s seen countless entrepreneurs struggle without clarity. Alongside him, Benjamin Hardy, author of Willpower Doesn't Work, praises its practical power to build confidence and success. Together, their insights highlight how this book can help you get unstuck and find a career that truly fits your strengths and aspirations.
Ashley Stahl is a counterterrorism professional turned highly sought-after career coach, Forbes blogger, and author on a mission to help job seekers step into a career that lights them up. As a creative writer, modern-day entrepreneur, and content creator, more than 516,000 job seekers have subscribed to Ashley's free trainings, while her online courses have helped thousands of job seekers in 31 countries with unlocking their best career fit, landing job offers, and upgrading their confidence.
Ashley Stahl draws from her unique experience as a former counterterrorism professional turned career coach to challenge the usual "follow your passion" advice that often leaves people stuck. In this book, you learn how to identify your core skills, uncover your true interests, and understand your inner money mindset to build a career aligned with your authentic self, not just fleeting passions. Stahl offers an eleven-step roadmap with practical tools to help you coach yourself through stress and uncertainty while designing a fulfilling career path. If you want clarity on what work truly suits you and an actionable plan to move forward, this book offers a grounded and insightful approach.
Time, a leading news magazine respected for its broad cultural insight, highlights this book's unique blend of career advice and self-discovery. They emphasize how it goes beyond job hunting to help you understand your personal identity and life goals. Their take reveals the book’s depth, showing how it reshaped their perspective on career changes by connecting practical job search tactics with deeper questions about what truly motivates you.
“What Color Is Your Parachute? is about job-hunting and career-changing, but it’s also about figuring out who you are as a person and what you want out of life.”
Richard N. Bolles led the career development field for more than forty years. A member of Mensa and the Society for Human Resource Management, he served as the keynote speaker at hundreds of conferences. Bolles was trained in chemical engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and earned a bachelor’s degree cum laude in physics from Harvard University, a master’s in sacred theology from General Theological (Episcopal) Seminary in New York City, and three honorary doctorates.
What happens when a seasoned career expert teams up with a university career center director? Richard N. Bolles, whose career guidance shaped millions, and Katharine Brooks, EdD, who brings timely academic insight, have crafted an updated guide that skillfully blends timeless strategies with current job market realities. You’ll explore tools like the Flower Exercise to analyze your strengths and values, learn how to craft resumes optimized for online platforms, and ace virtual interviews with confidence. This book is tailored for anyone navigating job hunting or career transition, particularly in today’s digital and shifting economy, offering clear frameworks to align your work with what truly motivates you.
This AI-created book on career mastery is tailored to your specific goals, background, and skill level. By sharing what matters most to you about your career path, this book focuses on your unique interests and challenges. It offers a clear, personalized pathway through the complexities of career planning, making the vast expert knowledge more accessible and relevant for your journey. This approach ensures you get focused guidance that truly fits your individual needs.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
This tailored book explores the art and science of career mastery by focusing on your unique strengths, goals, and interests. It covers how to navigate complex career choices with clarity and confidence, revealing personalized pathways that align with your background and aspirations. You’ll examine key factors influencing career success, including self-assessment, opportunity identification, and skill development, all adapted to your specific needs. By concentrating on your personal journey, this book facilitates a meaningful and informed approach to defining and pursuing your ideal career. It offers a customized synthesis of expert knowledge designed to deepen your understanding and empower your decision-making in a way that truly fits you.
Gordon Roddick, co-founder of The Body Shop, brings a seasoned perspective on hiring pitfalls and leadership. He highlights how "the insights in this brilliant book could have saved me and any top employer a lot of elementary mistakes, never mind the additional cost of bad decisions." His endorsement underscores the book’s practical value in avoiding costly hiring errors and shaping better interview outcomes, offering you a sharper understanding of what really matters in career conversations.
“The insights in this brilliant book could have saved me and any top employer a lot of elementary mistakes, never mind the additional cost of bad decisions.”
James Reed is the Chairman and CEO of REED, the recruitment specialists. Every year, REED places hundreds of thousands of people into jobs across a number of disciplines around the world. James first joined the company in 1992 after graduating from Harvard Business School. Along with Paul G. Stoltz, James is the author of Put Your Mindset to Work. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). He lives in London.
James Reed, Chairman and CEO of the international recruitment firm REED, brings decades of hands-on experience in hiring to this updated guide on mastering job interviews. The book arms you with specific preparation techniques and detailed breakdowns of 101 common and emerging interview questions, including new content on future workplace trends. You’ll gain more than scripted answers; Reed emphasizes adopting a confident mindset that shifts how you approach conversations that can shape your career. This book suits anyone facing interviews, especially those ready to understand employer expectations beyond the usual rehearsed responses.
James Altucher, founder & CEO of Reset Inc and StockPickr, knows firsthand the stakes of smart career moves. After years of entrepreneurship and investing, he emphasizes that "to pivot well is the difference between millions and failure." His endorsement carries weight because he’s witnessed how small strategic shifts can transform careers. Altucher praises Jenny Blake, a former Google career specialist, for dissecting the art of pivoting with clarity and precision. His recommendation highlights the book’s value for anyone facing career uncertainty. Not far behind, Seth Godin, marketing thought leader and bestselling author, adds that managing your career in this new era demands the willingness to pivot. Together, their insights frame this book as a practical guide for navigating today's evolving professional landscape.
“To pivot well is the difference between millions and failure. Former Googler and entrepreneur Jenny Blake (one of my favorite human beings) dissects the pivot, how to do it, and how to do it right.”
Jenny Blake is a career and business strategist and international speaker who helps people build sustainable, dynamic careers they love. She pivoted from studying political science and communications at UCLA to become the first employee at a political polling start-up in Silicon Valley. She then moved to Google, where she spent over five years in training and career development while also writing her first book, Life After College. Jenny left Google in 2011 to take her consulting business full time. A San Francisco native, she now lives in New York City.
Jenny Blake challenges the conventional wisdom that career changes require giant leaps. Drawing from her experience at Google and Silicon Valley startups, she presents the Pivot Method — focusing on small, strategic moves that build on your existing strengths and interests. You’ll learn to identify what’s working in your current role, test new directions with low-risk experiments, and recognize the right moment to commit fully. This book suits anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about their next professional step, offering clear frameworks to navigate transitions without losing your footing.
Loren Bouchard, creator of Bob’s Burgers, regards this book as essential for anyone drawn to animation, emphasizing its role in nurturing new voices in the industry. He shares, "I want to put this book into the hands of every single soul who feels drawn to the field, and every single fan with a desire to know more about the medium." This recommendation carries weight given Bouchard’s extensive experience shaping a popular animated series. Similarly, Jorge Gutierrez, known for The Book of Life, praises the book’s accumulated wisdom as a beacon for those embarking on animation careers, while John Canemaker, an Academy Award winner and NYU animation director, highlights its value for animators at all stages, from novices to veterans.
“I want to put this book into the hands of every single soul who feels drawn to the field, and every single fan with a desire to know more about the medium. The industry needs new voices. One of those new voices could be yours.”
David B. Levy is the author of Your Career in Animation: How to Survive and Thrive, the essential career guide for animation artists working in North America. Levy is the director of animation at Disney+, where he leads a team producing and developing original short-form content for social media, including several series for Lucasfilm. Levy has directed and supervised series and pilots for Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, Sesame Workshop, and Fox Broadcasting Company. He has also been engaged as a writer/creator on development projects for Disney Jr, DreamWorks, Warner Bros. Animation, and Silvergate Media/Sony Pictures Television. As an independent filmmaker, Levy is the director of the popular children’s film Good Morning, and a pair of short animated documentaries which premiered at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival. He has lectured and taught at several prestigious institutions and was president of the New York chapter of ASIFA. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter.
David B. Levy’s decades of experience directing and developing animation for top studios like Disney+ and Nickelodeon inform this guide, making it a practical manual for aspiring and established animators alike. You’ll gain clear insights on building a portfolio, navigating industry expectations, and pitching your own show, with advice drawn from conversations with over 150 animation professionals including directors, producers, and studio executives. The book covers everything from technical skills to resilience during unemployment, and even how to start your own studio or indie brand. If you want a grounded perspective on sustaining a career in animation, this book offers a blend of strategic career moves and real industry wisdom.
This AI-created book on career acceleration is crafted based on your experience, skill level, and specific goals. It focuses on what matters most to your career change journey, highlighting steps that align with your background and interests. Because career transitions are highly personal and complex, this tailored approach helps you cut through generic advice to focus on what you need to move forward effectively. The book offers a clear, customized pathway to accelerate your career transformation in just 90 days.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
This tailored book explores a focused, step-by-step plan designed to accelerate your career transformation within 90 days. It covers essential topics such as self-assessment, goal setting, skill development, and networking, all tailored to your background and specific career ambitions. The personalized content matches your interests and experience level, providing precise guidance to navigate career changes effectively. By delving into practical actions and decision-making processes, it reveals how to build momentum quickly and make confident choices that align with your goals. This approach transforms complex career concepts into an accessible, actionable path just for you.
The New York Times, a leading authority in book reviews, highlights Jeremy Schifeling's expertise born from years of career coaching and LinkedIn marketing. Their recommendation reflects the book's value for job seekers aiming to master AI-driven job search strategies. Praising Jeremy's previous works, they call this the ultimate guide to navigating LinkedIn and the job market, pointing to its practical insights that go beyond typical advice. This endorsement underscores how the book reshaped their view on personalized, AI-powered career coaching methods.
“Praise for Jeremy's other career titles: Linked: Conquer LinkedIn. Get Your Dream Job. Own Your Future. 'Finally! The ultimate guide to the LinkedIn-fueled job search. A must-read for any job seeker.' —Manny Contomanolis, Director of Career Services, Harvard University 'Of all the books that give job hunting advice, this is the most essential.' —Jeffrey Selingo, New York Times bestselling author of There Is Life After College”
Jeremy Schifeling has devoted his career to helping others succeed in theirs. From teaching kindergarten in Brooklyn to recruiting top students at Teach For America to leading education marketing at LinkedIn, he’s touched the lives of millions of people at every stage of their journeys. Along the way, he’s published the best-selling LinkedIn book on Amazon, served as a career coach for military veterans and MBA students at the University of Michigan, and produced the most-viewed video in LinkedIn’s history. He now partners with over 250 top universities from CUNY to Cambridge to train their students, alumni, and staff on advanced LinkedIn + AI techniques at The Job Insiders.
The breakthrough moment came when Jeremy Schifeling combined his extensive background in education, recruitment, and LinkedIn marketing with the capabilities of ChatGPT to create a fresh approach to job searching. This book teaches you how to leverage AI tools to craft resumes and cover letters that bypass Applicant Tracking Systems, optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract recruiters, and confidently prepare for interviews by anticipating questions. It’s ideal if you’re navigating job searches without prior experience or clear direction, offering specific strategies like tailoring applications to job listings and practicing interviews with AI simulations. If you want more than generic career tips, Schifeling’s guide offers a methodical way to harness AI for your career advancement.
Jeff Goins, author of The Art of Work, brings a deep understanding of creative career development and recommends this book for its blend of inspiration and practical insight. He highlights how Heller's creative insights both inspire and challenge us to chase our art, earn the right to share it others, and never lose sight of what truly matters. This resonated during a period when Goins was rethinking how artists can sustain meaningful work. Complementing this, Emily Giffin, a #1 bestselling novelist, emphasizes Cathy’s grasp on the subject, noting the book is packed with advice to help you pursue your passion and find more meaning in your career.
“Heller's creative insights both inspire and challenge us to chase our art, earn the right to share it others, and never lose sight of what truly matters.”
Cathy Heller is a dynamic transformational coach, spiritual guide, meditation teacher, and inspirational speaker dedicated to helping individuals find ease, joy, and fulfillment in their lives. As the host of the Abundant Ever After podcast and author of Don’t Keep Your Day Job: How to Turn Your Passion into Your Career and Abundant Ever After: Tools for Creating a Life of Prosperity and Ease, Cathy inspires her audience to pursue their dreams and live authentically. Cathy has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands through her teachings. On her podcast, she has engaged in enlightening conversations with a diverse range of creative entrepreneurs, renowned blogger Seth Godin, actor Matthew McConaughey, spiritual teacher Deepak Chopra, author Marianne Williamson, and psychologist Dr. Edith Eger, among others. Cathy’s passion lies in helping people find joy and meaning beyond material wealth, and she has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands through her teachings. Her work encompasses meditation, Jewish mysticism, and career strategies, empowering individuals to expand their potential and make a positive impact on the world. Proud mother to three daughters and four Persian cats, Cathy embodies a beautiful balance of creativity, family, and purpose.
Cathy Heller challenges the conventional wisdom that career success must come from traditional paths by weaving together stories from creative entrepreneurs and actionable strategies in marketing and community building. You’ll find practical guidance on how to harness your passion effectively, from cultivating your unique talents to building an email list and using social media platforms for growth. For example, the book explores how to identify your tribe and leverage teaching portals to monetize your skills. This blend of mindset shifts and hands-on tactics suits anyone ready to transition from a day job to a fulfilling, passion-driven career, though those seeking purely conventional career advice may find it less relevant.
Matt Ostrofsky is a seasoned technical seller and consultant with over 20 years of experience helping people find jobs. After facing downsizing himself, he developed a clear 6-step process to bring order to the uncertainty of job searching. His blend of practical experience, academic background in economics, finance, and management, and passion for supporting others shaped this guide to job search efficiency and confidence.
Matt Ostrofsky is a successful technical seller, consultant, and trainer who solves complex commercial and mechanical system problems. He has a zeal for life and a deep passion to help others. After graduating from the University of Hartford with a Bachelor of Science in economics and finance, he worked as a production control and shift supervisor in manufacturing. After three years of touring the U.S. as a public speaker, he was promoted into sales. Matt earned a Master's degree in management at Rensselaer Polytechnic. Matt has assisted hundreds of people in their job searches over the past 20 years. After he experienced a downsizing, he became affiliated with volunteer job search support groups. He learned the job search process through trial and error and realized that resume writing and interviewing skills can improve dramatically with practice and experience. Matt saw a need for bringing order to the initial chaos of a job search and to share the 6-step process he developed. This prompted him to create Yikes! I've Got to Get a Job. Matt lives with his family in Georgia.
Drawing from two decades of firsthand experience navigating job loss and career transitions, Matt Ostrofsky offers a structured 6-step process to bring clarity to the chaos of job searching. You’ll learn how to realistically assess your skills and career value, craft resumes and LinkedIn profiles that resonate with recruiters, and confidently handle interviews and negotiations. Chapters dedicated to networking strategies emphasize mutual support rather than awkwardness. This book speaks directly to mid-career professionals facing downsizing or career shifts, providing practical frameworks and insider insights without fluff or false promises.
Building a Career in Cybersecurity offers a unique perspective on entering one of today’s most dynamic fields. Unlike typical technical manuals, Yuri Diogenes draws on his experience as a Microsoft principal manager and cybersecurity professor to reveal the critical personal and strategic skills needed to thrive. This guide helps you create a tailored career plan, from assessing your readiness to mastering interviews and networking, making it invaluable for anyone serious about building a lasting cybersecurity career. By focusing on what employers truly want, it fills an important niche in career choices literature.
After years at Microsoft managing cybersecurity teams and teaching future professionals, Yuri Diogenes wrote this book to fill a gap in career guidance for cybersecurity aspirants. Instead of focusing on technical drills, he emphasizes mindset, personal strategy, and the soft skills that employers crave but rarely discuss openly. You'll learn how to assess your fit in cybersecurity, plan your skill development, create a portfolio, and navigate interviews with confidence. This book suits anyone transitioning into cybersecurity or looking to advance within the field by understanding what truly matters beyond coding and tools.
Melonie Dodaro is a recognized expert in using LinkedIn for business growth, having helped over 32,000 clients improve their sales and lead generation. Her deep understanding of personal branding and content marketing informs this book designed specifically for students and graduates. She draws on years of experience with LinkedIn, Sales Navigator, and practical strategies to help you stand out and connect authentically in a crowded job market. This handbook translates her proven methods into actionable guidance to jumpstart your career.
Melonie Dodaro is a well-known expert on using LinkedIn to generate leads and increase sales. Her approach focuses on building genuine relationships with potential clients, rather than relying on aggressive sales techniques. Melonie has helped over 32,000 businesses and individuals achieve significant growth by combining personal branding, content marketing and advanced technology. Through her innovative system that integrates LinkedIn, Sales Navigator and content marketing, Melonie has consistently helped businesses generate more leads, improve their sales processes and achieve better results organically. As a popular speaker at major industry conferences, she shares practical advice that inspires audiences and helps them rethink their sales and marketing strategies. Melonie has written several bestselling books, including 'LinkedIn Unlocked [Second Edition]' and 'Navigating LinkedIn for Sales,' establishing herself as a leading voice on how to use LinkedIn effectively for business. With a strong dedication to her work, she aims to help businesses of all sizes take advantage of the unique opportunities that targeted networking and customer acquisition on LinkedIn can provide.
While working as a LinkedIn strategist, Melonie Dodaro noticed many students and recent graduates struggle to leverage the platform effectively to launch their careers. This book walks you through building a standout LinkedIn profile, mastering job search techniques, and creating authentic connections employers value. You’ll gain practical insights on navigating the competitive job market and positioning yourself beyond just a resume. With examples on optimizing your profile and sharing targeted content, it’s tailored for those new to professional networking who want to land a fulfilling job quickly.
Mark Brenner spent over 40 years in staffing and human resources, transitioning from recruiter and corporate executive roles to career coaching. His extensive experience working with thousands of candidates informs this book, which distills real-world hiring insights and coaching techniques into clear guidance. Driven by a passion to help others find the right career fit, particularly veterans transitioning to civilian roles, Brenner draws on his academic background and nonprofit leadership to offer readers practical tools for navigating every step of the job search process.
Mark Brenner spent over 40 years in the Staffing and Human Resource industry as a Recruiter, Manager, Corporate Executive, and Business owner. He has successfully worked with thousands of candidates and assisted them in finding the right position. After leaving the Staffing Industry in 2012, he became a Career Coach working with 100’s of clients helping them to identify the right career and guiding them through each step of the hiring process. Mark has developed a unique and successful customized Coaching Programs that have helped his clients find the career they want including an employment-centric Improv class to improve interviewing skills. With an understanding of how important it is to make the right career choice, Mark is passionate about assisting others find the right position and using his unique tools for navigating the hiring process. Mark is an Air Force Veteran who created a non-profit organization (Veterans Career Xchange) that coaches Veterans who are transitioning from the military into a civilian career. He has assisted in the transition of over 500 Veterans. His work with Veterans has been recognized by the City of Los Angeles, The State of California, and The United States Congress. He holds a bachelor’s degree, MBA in Human Resources Management, Career Coach certificate, and an Adjunct Professor (Human Resource Management) at a California State University. As a motivational speaker and trainer, he has presented to groups as large as 500 attendees conducting workshops on such topics as staffing, networking, resume preparation, and interviewing. He has served as a member of the Board of Directors for both non-profit and for-profit organizations.
Mark Brenner's decades-long career in staffing and human resources clearly shapes this guide, offering you practical tools to navigate the complexities of career choices and job hunting. You gain more than just generic advice; specific chapters walk you through selecting the right career path, crafting resumes that have proven success, and mastering interviews, including video formats. Brenner’s experience with thousands of job seekers and his innovative coaching methods, like employment-centric improv classes, provide a grounded perspective on landing the right role. This book suits anyone serious about making informed career decisions, particularly those ready to engage actively in networking and self-presentation strategies.
Marc Miller's career journey spans 22 years at IBM, ventures into tech startups, and a near-fatal bicycle accident that reshaped his perspective on work and life. This diverse background fuels his passion for helping others, especially Baby Boomers, find fulfilling careers tailored for the decades ahead. His extensive teaching experience across 35 countries and active role in career coaching grounds this book in real-world insights that can guide you through midlife career reinvention.
by Marc Miller, Susan Lahey, MamiSerwaa Amoakohene··You?
About the Author
Marc Miller's career journey included 22 years at IBM, several thriving tech startups, a painful stint as a high school teacher, a gig raising funds for the Jewish Community Association of Austin and a near fatal bicycle accident that changed his perspective forever. Thirty years of wandering the proverbial career desert, often repeating the same mistakes over and over, taught him his most crucial lesson: Most people don't really know what makes them happy at their core, what fulfills them. They pursue money, status, a skill set, all of which provide some level of satisfaction, but not contentment. They wind up feeling frustrated and trapped. Others have figured out what they need, but don't know how to chart a course to get there. An active member of the Launch Pad Job Club, Marc found himself counseling friends and associates on their career journeys and finally realized he'd found his vocation. He would use his extensive training experience to help others—especially Baby Boomers—find careers that they could grow into for the decades that lie ahead. Marc is passionate about his work and the clients he serves. He's taught in more than 35 countries and helped clients from many industries.
Unlike most career guides that focus on early career moves, this book zeroes in on reinventing your professional life in midlife and beyond. Marc Miller, drawing from his varied experiences—from decades at IBM to a life-altering accident—offers you a framework to rethink what fulfillment really means beyond salary and status. You’ll learn how to assess opportunities through lenses like social interaction, focus style, and emotional support rather than conventional metrics. Specific chapters outline strategies for adapting to the gig economy, combating ageism, and cultivating continuous learning, making it especially relevant if you’re navigating significant industry shifts or seeking meaningful work after 40.
Daniel DiPiazza is a Millennial business guru and the entrepreneur behind Rich20Something.com, known for starting multiple freelance businesses that scaled beyond $100,000 without startup capital. His background in building successful ventures and large social media followings drives the practical advice in this book, aimed at helping you break free from average jobs and create a career and business you genuinely care about. His experience writing for major outlets like Time and Entrepreneur adds authority to his insights on turning skills into income streams.
Daniel DiPiazza is a Millennial business guru and the young entrepreneur behind the massively popular career and lifestyle website Rich20Something.com. He has successfully started three consecutive freelance businesses and scaled them to more than $100,000 in revenue with zero start-up capital. He has over 204,000 followers on Instagram and 16,000-plus Twitter followers, and has been the subject of interviews and feature articles in many national media shows and publications. He is the author of the popular Rich20Something column on Huffington Post and contributes regularly to other national publications, including Time magazine, Fortune, Entrepreneur, Business Insider, Fox News, and Yahoo Finance. He lives in Los Angeles, California.
The methods Daniel DiPiazza developed while launching multiple zero-capital businesses inform this guide that challenges the traditional career climb. You learn to identify and monetize your skills, prioritize effectively, and master online promotion to build a business that aligns with your passions and pays well. Chapters dive into practical tactics like riding motivational waves, fail-proofing business ideas, and growing social media presence from scratch. If you're ready to break from conventional jobs and want a hands-on approach to entrepreneurship, this book offers concrete techniques backed by the author's real-world success.
Dan Schawbel, a New York Times bestselling author known for his insights on personal branding and career growth, highlights this book as a key tool for navigating today's job market. After witnessing how traditional job hunting methods often fall short, he recommends Find Your Fit for its expert-backed advice on mastering the new employment landscape. According to Schawbel, this book offers distilled wisdom from top career coaches that can help you confidently land the job you truly want.
“Find Your Fit has distilled some of the best career advice from expert coaches to help you land your desired job. Read this book if you want to successfully navigate the new employment landscape with confidence.”
Sue Kaiden is the manager for the Career Development Community of Practice. With more than 20 years of experience improving performance in various sectors, Sue holds an MBA from Cornell University and a BS in business administration from Miami University.
Drawing from her extensive background in career development and an MBA from Cornell, Sue Kaiden offers a grounded exploration of today’s job market challenges in this book. You’ll gain clarity on defining your career goals, understanding the evolving job search landscape, and mastering networking strategies that prioritize relationships over job postings. The book breaks down complex topics like employee referrals, online identities, and pre-employment assessments with accessible guidance, making it especially useful if you’re navigating career transitions or seeking more targeted job search tactics. If you want practical insight into aligning your job search with your personal values and skills, this book provides clear, experience-based direction without fluff.
Dr. Gerald Auger, who holds a PhD in cyber operations and has been active in information security since 2006, brings deep expertise to this guide. His experience running the Simply Cyber YouTube channel and advising thousands of aspiring professionals shines through as he helps you navigate certifications, career paths, and skill development in cybersecurity. This book reflects his commitment to making the field accessible and understandable for newcomers and career changers alike.
by Dr Gerald Auger, Jaclyn Jax Scott, Jonathan Helmus··You?
About the Author
Dr. Gerald Auger has worked within information security since 2006 and holds a PhD in cyber operations. Gerald has helped tens of thousands of aspiring cybersecurity professionals through his 'Simply Cyber' YouTube channel and is regularly interviewed for his thoughts on cybersecurity professional development. He also holds a Masters in Computer Science and a Masters in Information Assurance.
Dr. Gerald Auger leverages his extensive background in cyber operations, including a PhD and years of hands-on experience, to demystify the path into cybersecurity careers. This book walks you through foundational concepts like cyber law and frameworks, while breaking down career options such as penetration testing and risk analysis in clear, accessible terms. It also tackles practical decisions, comparing formal education and certifications, and guides you in building your personal brand within the field. Whether you’re transitioning from another career or just starting out, this guide helps you create a roadmap with achievable goals and skill-building strategies tailored to cybersecurity.
Marsha Sinetar, Ph.D., an organizational psychologist and mediator, has spent years studying self-actualizing adults, which led her to write this guide to aligning work with personal fulfillment. Her expertise grounds the book’s approach to helping you tune into your inner world and unique talents. The book breaks down barriers like fear and societal expectations, offering a pathway toward work that feels meaningful rather than just a paycheck. If you’re seeking a career that reflects who you truly are, Sinetar’s insights provide a thoughtful foundation.
Marsha Sinetar, Ph.D., is an organizational psychologist, mediator, and writer who for the past several years has been increasingly immersed in the study of self-actualizing adults.
Marsha Sinetar, an organizational psychologist with deep insights into personal fulfillment, challenges the common career advice that prioritizes money over passion. In this book, you explore how to connect your work with your unique talents and values, learning to navigate fears and outdated societal expectations that often hold you back. You’ll find specific guidance on building your self-esteem, recognizing resistance, and embracing risk in ways that foster personal growth and authentic self-expression. This book suits anyone feeling trapped in unfulfilling jobs and eager to discover work that truly resonates with their inner self, balancing practical steps with reflective exercises to help you find your right livelihood.
John Sonmez is a seasoned software developer and author whose career began at age 10, hacking C and C++ before landing a high-paying job at 19 that soon led to frustration and career challenges. Drawing from 17+ years of experience, he wrote this guide to help others avoid the same pitfalls by focusing on both technical and soft skills essential for success. His background as a prolific online educator and consultant informs the book's practical advice, making it a valuable resource for developers seeking to elevate their careers.
John Sonmez is a software developer and the author of two best-selling books, The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide and Soft Skills: The Software Developer's Life Manual. He's also the founder of the Simple Programmer blog and YouTube channel, where he reaches 1.4 million software developers yearly with a central message: Technical skills alone aren't enough for a successful career—or life. By focusing on 'soft skills' like the ability to communicate clearly and lead by example, the mental resilience to bounce back from failure and even an improved level of personal fitness, software developers can break through the 'glass ceiling' and enjoy extraordinary success. John learned these lessons himself the hard way—through trial and error over his 17+ year career as a developer—and he's candid about the fits and starts he struggled through during those early years. John started his software development career at age 10, hacking C and C++ to create virtual worlds for his favorite MUDs. When John landed a coveted six-figure Silicon Beach job at age 19, he thought his career was set. In reality he was only set up for years of frustration and disappointment—from getting 'laid off' from that cushy job after underwhelming his boss with his C++ skills, to a spectacular implosion during an intense onsite interview with Microsoft, to finally taking a job outside of programming just to pay the bills. Eventually though John realized that there's a huge difference between knowing how to program and having all the skills to be a successful, professional software developer—and he set out to develop the technical, leadership and communication skills he lacked. John went on to become a highly paid consultant in test automation and Agile methodology, and the 55 courses he published with the technical education powerhouse PluralSight makes him one of the most prolific online trainers in the field of software development. John effectively retired at 32 and moved to San Diego. Today he focuses his energy on helping other developers achieve the success they desire through the videos, books and courses in his Simple Programmer platform.
What started as John Sonmez's personal struggle to overcome early career setbacks in software development became a detailed roadmap for others facing similar hurdles. This book goes beyond coding skills to explore essential soft skills like effective communication, negotiation, and team leadership that many developers overlook. You’ll find practical insights on choosing between contract and salaried roles, deciding which programming languages to learn first, and navigating the recruiting industry's hidden dynamics. For anyone from brand-new coders to seasoned developers aiming to break through career plateaus, this guide offers a realistic look at what it takes to land and thrive in your ideal software job.
Nic Meliones, CEO and startup advisor, values practical tools that demystify complex processes. He found this book during a period when guiding job seekers meant breaking down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps. "Ready to take control of your job search? Lana turns the complicated and panic-filled job hunt into a precise step-by-step framework," he says. This book transformed his approach by providing clear templates and best practices that help candidates stand out and secure the roles they want.
“Ready to take control of your job search? Lana turns the complicated and panic-filled job hunt into a precise step-by-step framework. With actionable templates and best practices from start to finish, this is your perfect co-pilot to land your next big gig!”
After University Lana was stumped. The pressure to be responsible for her own career was heavy. Growing up she didn't know anyone who liked their work. After struggling with depression and anxiety, Lana found a career that fit her perfectly. Then she got the flexibility to work remotely and traveled the world with her family. Lana visited and lived in 10 countries so far.
When Lana Ryan faced the daunting pressure of shaping her own career after university, she discovered the power of a structured job search. This book distills her journey into practical guidance on crafting resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and interview responses that truly resonate. You’ll find specific templates for handling questions like "Tell me about yourself?" and negotiating offers, making the process less intimidating. If you’ve been stuck in endless rejections or automated replies, this book offers a systematic way to stand out and engage hiring managers authentically.
BookAuthority, a trusted publication in book recommendations, highlights this guide as "One of the Best Information Technology Books for Beginners." Their endorsement carries weight for anyone serious about entering IT. This recommendation came after thorough evaluation of how the book helps newcomers chart clear, actionable career paths in IT, breaking down certification routes and interview strategies. Their recognition points to how this book simplifies complex information, making it accessible and practical for people ready to step into IT roles or overcome career hurdles.
A.J. Newton is a senior IT consultant with a corporate IT career spanning over two decades. He is the author of the acclaimed book 'Start a Successful Career Today in Information Technology' and founder of Tech with Newton. Having worked his way up the corporate IT ladder from an entry-level service desk position to an IT managerial role in a leading telecom giant, Newton now works as a senior ICT consultant for a handful of tech startups and managed service providers in the United Kingdom. Newton has extensive hands-on experience in Software engineering, DevOps, SRE, Platform engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Full-stack web development, and Blockchain technology. He is certified in Cybersecurity, AWS cloud computing, Cisco networking, Extreme Computer Networks (ECE), ITIL, scripting, and UNIX OS, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology and a Master’s degree in Intercultural Management. Whenever he is not busy studying apples or indulging in endless small talk, Newton takes pride in destroying every worthy table tennis challenger. He is also a relentless globetrotter with multiple citizenships and a knack for last-minute destination decisions.
A.J. Newton draws from over two decades in corporate IT to map out clear pathways for launching a career in information technology. You’ll find detailed chapters on three distinct career tracks within IT, alongside essential certifications that remain relevant in the 2020s job market. The book goes beyond theory, offering practical guidance on job hunting, interview preparation, and decision-making, all while cutting out fluff to keep you focused. If you’re navigating career stagnation or starting fresh without a university degree, this guide breaks down complex IT concepts with approachable language and colorful illustrations, making the technical world accessible and actionable.
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Conclusion
The collection of these 19 Career Choices books reveals distinct themes: the importance of self-discovery, the power of adaptability, and the value of practical tools for job hunting and career advancement. Whether you’re just starting out, contemplating a pivot, or aiming to deepen your expertise in fields like cybersecurity or software development, there’s a tailored resource here.
If you’re facing uncertainty, starting with You Turn or Pivot can provide clarity and actionable steps. For rapid implementation, pairing Job Search Templates with Career Coach GPT offers structured guidance and AI-enhanced strategies. Creatives should not miss Your Career in Animation, while tech professionals benefit from The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide and Building a Career in Cybersecurity.
Alternatively, you can create a personalized Career Choices book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and make confident career moves in 2025 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with You Turn for clarity on your career direction or Pivot if you're considering a change. Both offer practical steps to get unstuck and plan your next move.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Career Choices?
Not at all. Many books like Find Your Fit and LinkedIn for Students, Graduates, and Educators are designed for beginners, breaking down concepts into accessible advice.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with self-discovery titles such as You Turn, then explore job search guides like Job Search Templates, followed by specialized career path books that fit your interests.
Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?
You can pick based on your current needs. For interview help, choose Why You?; for passion-driven careers, Don't Keep Your Day Job is ideal. Each offers distinct value.
Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?
Books like The Crossroads of Should and Must lean toward inspiration and theory, while Career Coach GPT and Job Search Templates deliver hands-on, actionable strategies.
How can I apply these books' advice to my unique career path?
These expert books offer solid foundations, but personalized challenges vary. Consider creating a personalized Career Choices book to tailor insights to your specific skills, goals, and industry for maximum impact.
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