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Forbes
15-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Why Mentorship Is Key To Career Success Today And How To Cultivate It
Connecting with supportive mentorship throughout your professional life is one of the most powerful tools for career advancement, yet many professionals hesitate to pursue it. Whether it's fear of rejection, a sense of unworthiness, imposter feelings, or uncertainty about how to approach potential mentors, these barriers often prevent people from accessing the guidance and support they need to thrive. But there are numerous ways to connect with great mentors and sponsors who want to be of help—when they're approached in the right way. Research from The Center for Creative Leadership highlights that mentorship not only accelerates mentees' career growth in powerful ways but also improves job satisfaction and retention rates for mentees and mentors alike. Yet, according to a 2023 Gallup study, only 40% of professionals have a mentor and even fewer (23%) have a sponsor - an individual who actively promotes growth, provides access to opportunities at work and/or advocates for career advancement. Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever In today's fast-changing workplace, mentorship is no longer just a nice-to-have — it's essential. Great mentors can provide much-needed guidance on advancing your skills and impact, and also the social capital that opens doors to new opportunities that you're not able to open on your own. Studies, including one from The National Bureau of Economic Research, show that mentorship can significantly improve career outcomes, particularly for underrepresented professionals. In addition to professional insights, mentors offer psychological support, helping mentees navigate workplace challenges, build confidence, and sustain motivation over time. Having access to someone who has already navigated the terrain you're traversing can dramatically shorten your learning curve and help you avoid common pitfalls. To help you overcome these barriers and build empowering mentorship relationships, here are five key strategies, supported by research and real-world insights, to connect with mentors who genuinely want to support your growth. One of the biggest mistakes people make is reaching out to strangers with a generic request like, 'Will you be my mentor?' or 'Can I pick your brain?' This approach rarely works because effective mentorship is built on trust and mutual respect first. Sheryl Sandberg, in her book Lean In, humorously compares this approach to the behavior of the baby bird in Are You My Mother?, who asks everything and everyone the question, 'Are you my mother?' The answer is always a resounding 'No!' Instead, start by reaching out to people you already have some form of connection with—colleagues, former bosses, industry peers, past educators, or individuals you've met through networking groups or conferences. In coaching hundreds of professionals globally, I've seen firsthand that mentorship relationships tend to be most successful when they stem from existing professional connections. When mentors have seen direct evidence and results of your great work ethic, character and abilities firsthand, they'll be far more inclined to help you. If you admire someone who isn't yet in your network, don't immediately reach out to ask for help or mentorship. Instead, find ways to engage with their work and add value to their professional endeavors. For example: A study published in The Journal of Vocational Behavior found that mentees who actively contribute to their mentor's goals and projects are more likely to develop strong, lasting mentorship relationships. By consistently showing up in a positive and supportive way, you create natural opportunities to build a mutually-beneficial relationship and connection. Before seeking mentorship, ask yourself: Would I want to mentor me? Great mentors want to invest their time in people who are proactive, open to feedback, and eager to learn and stretch. To become an ideal mentee: Mentees who show initiative and a willingness to grow are more likely to achieve significant benefits through mentorship, including gaining access to leadership opportunities, career mobility, better rewards and higher compensation, increased adaptability when facing new situations, and more. One of the biggest turn-offs for potential mentors is a vague or overwhelming request. Instead of saying, 'I need help with my career,' narrow your focus. Get very clear on the specific insights or guidance you need at this time. For example, if you admire a writer and blogger in the entrepreneurial/business growth space and want to start your own blog, you might say: 'Hi [Name], I hope this finds you well. I've been following your blog for two years and truly love your insights on entrepreneurial and business growth and find them so helpful. I'm working toward launching my own blog in the next several months focused on (X), and would very much appreciate just a few minutes of your time, if you're available, to hear how you approached your first year of thought leadership and content strategy, and any key tips and suggestions. I'd be very grateful to learn what worked best for you.' This approach is effective because it: Whenever you're unsure about how to reach out to a potential mentor, ask yourself: If I were in their position, how would I want to be approached? Successful professionals are often inundated with requests for help. To stand out: Mentorship isn't a transactional request—it's a rewarding, often long-term relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual effort and benefit. Approach mentorship with confidence and self-worth, and conduct yourself as someone worthy of high-level guidance. Start today by identifying one person you admire and taking the first step to connect. It might be uncomfortable at first, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. And remember, if the response you receive the first time isn't what you hoped, don't despair and give up. There are a myriad of reasons why someone may not engage at the time you reach out. Learn from every interaction and refine your approach, and keep at it. Your next career breakthrough could be just one conversation away. Kathy Caprino is a LinkedIn Top Voice, global career and leadership coach, 2x author, speaker and host of the podcast Finding Brave, supporting professional growth, success and impact.
Associated Press
13-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Top Empowerment Coach of the Year Awarded to Jamie McKinney by the IAOTP
Jamie McKinney Top coach and keynote speaker available for television, podcast, and media interviews on empowerment, executive presence, and career advancement DENVER, CO, UNITED STATES, July 13, 2025 / / -- The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) has named Jamie McKinney, best-selling author of Speak Up, Sister! and founder of the 3 Pillars of Leadership Course, as the 2025 Top Empowerment Coach of the Year in Career Development. This prestigious honor recognizes McKinney's transformative impact as a women's leadership coach, her innovative executive coaching programs, and her unwavering commitment to advancing confidence and career growth for women in male-dominated industries. With nearly three decades of experience, Jamie McKinney has redefined what it means to empower women at work. Through her signature programs—including the 3 Pillars of Leadership and Speak UP to Level UP® —she has equipped women from global organizations including Owens Corning, Liberty Energy, Precision Castparts, SLB, Xcel Energy, and Colorado School of Mines with skills to command the room, earn promotions, and access new opportunities. 'Over 80% of my clients receive promotions or expanded responsibilities within a year of completing the 3 Pillars of Leadership Course, and many with commensurate increases in compensation,' says McKinney. 'YTD, women participating in my programs have collectively increased their compensation by more than half a million dollars.' 'It's a privilege and a rush to help women unlock their confidence, step into their power, and achieve the careers they've always envisioned. Watching my clients thrive and lead with authenticity, especially in male-dominated industries, excites me every day.' Her coaching and leadership development programs have reached over 30,000 professionals worldwide, with participants spanning six continents and including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Belgium, France, Finland, India, and Australia. Participants consistently report increased self-confidence and self-awareness. McKinney's impact is evident in her 100% corporate client retention rate, as organizations consistently choose to work with her again for additional coaching and leadership engagements Jamie McKinney offers a dynamic range of services designed to elevate executive presence and authentic leadership, including executive coaching for both women and men, keynote speaking, and leadership workshops. She holds certifications in Neuroscience Coaching, Positive Intelligence, and Situational Leadership, ensuring her programs are grounded in the latest research on brain science, mindset, and adaptive leadership. Her numerous accolades include Training Magazine's Emerging Leader honor, the Denver Business Journal's Top Women in Energy, and the CREA Global Award from Brainz Magazine. This fall, McKinney will launch a new community, The Leadership Laboratory, a safe and welcoming space where you can experiment with your leadership style, create a plan, and execute it. The Leadership Laboratory will provide ambitious women with a hands-on, interactive space to refine their leadership style, build a promotion-ready plan, and access an empowering community of peers and mentors. Details and a waitlist are available at Reflecting on her journey, McKinney credits her success to values-based leadership, a passion for empowerment, and the mentors who shaped her path. As she looks ahead, her mission remains clear: to help women silence self-doubt, speak up confidently, and build the careers they deserve. Jamie McKinney will be honored at the IAOTP annual awards gala at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas this December. Media and Booking Information Jamie McKinney is available for television, radio, and podcast interviews, as well as expert commentary on women's leadership, executive presence, mental fitness, and overcoming self-doubt in the workplace. Suggested Interview Topics: • How Women Can Build Confidence and Command the Room • Overcoming Self-Doubt in the Workplace • Leadership Strategies for Women in Male-Dominated Industries • The Science of Mental Fitness and Career Success Contact: Jamie McKinney [email protected] | 347-927-4376 LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter About Jamie McKinney, Inc. Jamie McKinney, Inc. empowers professionals to lead with confidence and authenticity through executive coaching, keynote speaking, and leadership development programs. Learn more at About IAOTP The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) is a boutique networking organization that recognizes and connects the world's leading professionals across industries. Honorees are selected for their achievements, leadership, and impact on their fields. For more information, to schedule an interview, or to request a speaking engagement, please contact Jamie McKinney at [email protected] or 347-927-4376. Stephanie Cirami IAOTP +1 212-634-4427 email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Forbes
12-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Staying Put: 6 Ways To Keep Your Job And Boost Your Annual Salary
Some workers are discovering that they can stay put in the jobs they have and still make more money, ... More and experts show how you, too, can make this happen. It's hard not to become discouraged in the crowded 2025 job market. Gallup cites that 48% of U.S. employees are seeking new roles. When workers are dissatisfied with their current jobs, the first option is usually job hopping. But there's another option hiding in plain sight, like those looking for their glasses when they're on their head the whole time. Staying put in the job you already have and using different strategies is another option. According to experts, there are ways you can boost your annual salary in the job you already have without job hopping. 5 Tips For Staying Put And Increasing Your Annual Salary To navigate job changes wisely, it's important to focus on long-term career advancement, not short-term gains. Current market conditions and the ability to articulate your career moves can bring you more money and professional growth. Experts offer tips on how you can consider long-term salary gains, shine in the job you already have and increase your annual salary. I spoke by email with Amanda Augustine, certified professional career coach (CPCC) and resident career expert at Careerminds. She suggests that you start by investing in your own professional development by upgrading your skills. She recommends completing a certification, joining a training program or building in-demand skills during your off-hours. 'This helps position you as a more valuable employee who's worth a bump in compensation,' she points out. 'You might also find opportunities to earn more by taking on high-impact projects, leading cross-functional initiatives or volunteering to work less desirable shifts that offer time-and-a-half pay.' Augustine suggests that you check in with HR or long-time colleagues to make sure you're taking advantage of all the benefits your company already has to offer. 'From pre-tax commuter stipends and wellness reimbursements, to mentorship programs and professional-development budgets, these offerings can reduce your expenses and add value to your career,' she explains. 'Some companies even offer employee referral bonuses for helping to recruit great talent or extra pay for internal training or mentoring.' Don't be afraid to ask for what you need to improve your salary. Sam Hammock, CHRO of Verizon, told me it's important to advocate for yourself—whether it's a promotion, a better work-life balance or even just more resources on your team. Hammock says you have to think about what you need and have the courage to ask for it. She suggests that if you're scared, remember that negotiations are conversations, not confrontations. If you're asking for a promotion or a raise, it's important to have a list of your achievements and cite how they have had a positive effect on your team and the organization. Time your request by learning your company's cycles and business needs. Typically, the four best times to explain why you deserve more compensation is during an annual performance review, after completing a successful project, when the company reports strong financial results and after you achieve a significant personal milestone like completing a major certification, receiving an award or exceeding performance targets. If a raise isn't possible right now, Augustine recommends that you think about other negotiables that offer real value, such as a flexible schedule, additional paid time off (PTO) or covering the cost of a certification or conference. 'No matter what, track your accomplishments and wins in your digital 'brag book' throughout the year so you're ready to make your case when the time is right,' she advises. "Remember, raises and cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) aren't automatically doled out, so it's important to be proactive in managing and advancing your career." Side hustles have become the new normal for having your own revenue stream, giving you confidence at the negotiation table, whether you're pursuing a promotion or negotiating a raise. Experts argue that side hustles are no longer a luxury but that everyone needs a gig job to supplement their current jobs in today's uncertain economy. If you're tight for income, side hustles can help you get back and stay on your feet. Consider joining the increasing numbers of workers taking back their earning potential with their own plan, on their own schedule, driving their own future career destination. Salary supplement is the leading motivator for side hustles, with some earning as much as $45,000 annually from gig work. According to one in six Americans report earning at least $2,000 per month from freelancing. If you're looking for the fastest growing side hustles in the U.S. and Canada, you can find them here. If you're wondering how to make quick easy cash fast and how to get started, you can find a few leads here and make as much as $1,000 extra per month. Atalia Horenshtien, head of AI practice at Customertimes, told me that if you're concerned about losing your job in the age of AI, there are ways to future-proof in the job you're in. One of the best steps you can take is to learn how to partner with AI, instead of resist it. Horenshtien advises that you don't have to become a data scientist, but you do need to know how to make AI tools useful, adding that the ability to bridge the gap between tech and business outcomes is what will set you apart. She also mentions that AI will likely replace tasks, not whole jobs, especially those rooted in repetition. 'What it still can't replicate well," she points out, "is original thinking, emotional intelligence, ethical judgment and complex decision-making. If your role leans heavily on these, double down. If not, it's time to pivot.' She suggests the worst move is to stay still. 'If your role includes repetitive tasks, assume they're next in line for automation. Up-skilling now, whether in AI tools, business strategy or adjacent fields, puts you ahead of the curve and out of the risk zone when change hits.' According to one in five Americans are planning to quit their jobs in 2025, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the way. Other employees are choosing to avoid the stress of job hunting, keep their heads down and work hard in a dead-end job that doesn't pay well. But sometimes the simplest, easiest and most lucrative option is staying put and figuring out strategies right in front of your eyes that can save you the stress of job hopping and boost your annual salary to boot.
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
OysterLink Finds Salary Talks Hold Back Hospitality Job Seekers
LOS ANGELES, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- OysterLink, the hospitality job platform built for the frontlines, has released new data revealing that salary negotiation is the top area where hospitality professionals seek career advice. In a poll conducted by OysterLink, participants were asked: "What kind of career advice would help you most right now?" The responses were telling: Salary negotiation – 41% Career growth strategies – 29% Resume tips – 18% Interview preparation – 12% These results reflect a growing desire among hospitality workers to take more control over their financial future and advancement opportunities. In an industry known for high turnover and wage stagnation, the emphasis on negotiation underscores a shift toward self-advocacy and long-term career planning. "We're seeing more professionals in hospitality realizing their worth and actively seeking tools to navigate pay conversations," said Milos Eric, General Manager at OysterLink. "This marks a cultural change — from just getting the job to making sure it works for you in the long run." The poll is part of OysterLink's broader effort to understand the evolving needs of hospitality talent — from kitchen staff and servers to hotel managers and bartenders — and provide resources that reflect real challenges and ambitions. In recent months, OysterLink has also polled its growing online community (now over 27,000 LinkedIn followers) on topics like job-hunting frustrations and the most overlooked skills in the industry. Each data point informs content and tools tailored to help candidates succeed — and help employers better understand what today's workforce actually values. OysterLink is launching new guides, employer tips, and frontline-focused tools later this year — including insights around negotiating wages, evaluating job offers, and mapping out a long-term career in hospitality. About OysterLink OysterLink is a leading job platform dedicated to the hospitality industry. We connect restaurants, hotels, and hospitality employers with skilled candidates across the U.S. and internationally. With job listings like barista in San Francisco or pastry chef jobs in Los Angeles, industry insights, and career resources, OysterLink helps professionals build rewarding careers in the hospitality industry. Currently, OysterLink attracts over 400,000 monthly visitors and continues to grow steadily. For more information, visit or contact PR Rep Ana at ana@ Media Contact press@ View original content: SOURCE OysterLink
Khaleej Times
09-07-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Nearly one-third certified employees got salary increase after IT certification
A new study has revealed how IT certifications are transforming career prospects, with significant implications for the UAE's fast-evolving digital workforce. According to the 2025 Value of IT Certification Candidate Report by Pearson VUE, 82 per cent of certified professionals reported increased confidence in their career growth, and 63 per cent either received or expected a promotion after certification. Meanwhile, local experts emphasised that as the country strengthens its position as a regional hub for innovation and digital transformation, certifications are clearly emerging as a vital asset, for individuals and organisations alike. They reiterate the UAE is aligned with these trends, and employers across the nation increasingly value certified skills in AI, cybersecurity, data, and cloud computing. 'In addition, 32 per cent received a salary increase, while 41 per cent were hoping for one — of those who did, nearly a third saw raises exceeding 20 per cent. These figures highlight the tangible value employers place on certified skills, reflecting a broader trend of prioritising certified talent for career advancement and financial rewards,' said Dr Gary Gates, Managing Director, Pearson VUE. In the UAE, where the digital economy continues to accelerate, these insights mirror on-ground hiring practices. Aws Ismail, a recruitment expert based in the UAE, noted, 'From what we are seeing in the UAE job market, IT certifications are being recognised more than ever, especially in technical and rapidly evolving fields and industries. "As a recruitment company, we're seeing our clients request certifications more frequently, particularly in areas like cloud, cybersecurity, data, and AI. In many cases, I believe they've become a stronger indicator of how current and capable a professional truly is, as it shows continuous learning and upskilling.' The report, based on insights from nearly 24,000 certified professionals, also found that 84 per cent plan to pursue additional certifications within the next 12 months — a sign that continuous upskilling is fast becoming a non-negotiable in the tech sector. Gates added, 'Certifications have a significant and measurable impact on employee performance, innovation, and work quality. 79 per cent of certified employees deliver higher quality work, while 70 per cent report increased efficiency, producing more in less time. Additionally, 76 per cent of certified individuals demonstrate a stronger ability to innovate and improve processes. Notably, 74 per cent have gained the skills necessary to perform tasks or fill roles that were previously beyond their capability.' 69% employers started, increased AI investments This is particularly relevant to the UAE's future workforce plans, as 69 per cent of global employers have started or increased AI-related investments, and local firms are following suit. Companies here are allocating training budgets and offering incentives to employees seeking to enhance their digital skills, recruiters explained. 'We've also seen how certifications positively impact team performance. Certified professionals tend to be more structured, bring clearer methodologies, and often take the lead in solving complex problems based on their recent training and upskilling... which naturally drives innovation and better outcomes for the entire team,' Ismail added. Look beyond short-term ROI The sentiment is echoed by Nadeem Ahmed, talent acquisition specialist at Sharjah Maritime Academy. 'In today's competitive and skills-driven workplace, organisations increasingly recognise IT certifications as critical indicators of competence, growth mindset, and technical readiness." "HR and Talent Acquisition teams often filter applicants using certification keywords for tech and digital roles. Certifications are viewed as a signal that an employee is ready for high-stakes or strategic assignments," Ahmed added. "CIO Magazine survey reports that 31 per cent of professionals received a 20 per cent salary increase after getting certified. Additionally, organisations conduct internal reviews showing how certified staff led or supported key initiatives.' UAE-based employers are also learning to look beyond short-term ROI. As Ismail pointed out, 'Employers are now understanding that upskilling doesn't need immediate ROI. The value should be better performance, faster delivery, and less reliance on outside talent which meets long term company objectives, and this, in a fast-paced digital economy, is a smart investment.'
