They Said “You’re Too Corporate.” Here’s Why That Rejection Didn’t Matter.

 Rejection stings—especially when you feel like you were the right fit.

I recently worked with a corporate leader who wanted to use his leadership in smaller organizations than he had previously.. He had the skills, the experience, and the drive. But after an interview, the hiring manager gave him feedback that felt like a gut punch:

"You’re too corporate."

He took it hard. He assumed this meant he’d never make the leap. But instead of accepting that narrative, we rewrote the story.

Why Perception Matters More Than Qualifications

This client wasn’t actually "too corporate." He had plenty of scrappy, adaptable experience—it just wasn’t coming through in his resume or interviews.

Together, we shifted the way he told his story:

âś” We reworked his resume to highlight agility over structure.
âś” We repositioned his experience to emphasize problem-solving over process.
âś” We created new talking points to show how he had navigated ambiguity, adapted quickly, and thrived in fast-moving enviro...

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Balancing Act: Strategies for Maintaining Mental Wellbeing in a Busy CPG Career

In the demanding world of CPGl life, maintaining mental wellbeing can often be a challenge. Yet, it's a critical component of sustained career success and personal happiness. Insights from a recent coaching session shed light on effective strategies for mental health management.

"I need to change my thoughts because the thoughts that are running through my mind are not healthy for me." my client shared.

Identifying Negative Thought Patterns Awareness is the first step. Recognizing when your thoughts are unproductive or harmful allows you to take action. Negative patterns can lead to stress and decreased productivity.

Techniques to Cultivate Positive Thoughts

  • Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness or meditation to stay present and reduce anxiety.
  • Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to counteract negative thoughts.
  • Regular Breaks: Schedule short breaks throughout your day to refresh and reset your mind.

Implementing and Sustaining Change My client’s approach to chang...

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Embracing Authenticity: How Genuine Conversations Transform Professional Interactions

Authenticity can sometimes feel like a rare commodity in CPG. However, embracing genuine interactions can profoundly impact your career, leading to more meaningful connections and opportunities. One such instance was beautifully articulated by one of my clients  during a recent coaching session.

"Last week was the first time I ever showed up and I was like, this is going to be a conversation. This isn't me performing; this is me being authentic." 

  1. The Power of Authentic Conversations: The shift from performing to having a real conversation marked a turning point. Authenticity not only helps in expressing oneself better but also builds trust and rapport with colleagues and potential employers.
  2. Steps to Embrace Authenticity:
  • Be Present: Focus on the conversation at hand without worrying about the outcome.
  • Be Honest: Share your true thoughts and feelings instead of what you think others want to hear.
  • Listen Actively: Engage with what the other person is saying, showing genui...
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Proactive Career Planning: Shaping Your Path to Success

In our industry, standing still is akin to moving backward. That's why I'm here to share insights and strategies that have not only propelled my career forward but also helped many I've mentored to craft rewarding career paths. Let’s get to the core of mastering your future in CPG.

Understand the CPG Landscape

The CPG industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving. From trends in sustainability to shifts in consumer behavior and digital transformation, staying informed is key. Regularly consuming industry news and engaging in continuous learning are not just beneficial; they're essential. Knowledge is power, as they say, and in CPG, it's also your ladder to success.

Network with Purpose

Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts; it’s about building meaningful relationships. Attend industry events, join CPG forums online, and don’t hesitate to reach out to those you admire. Remember, it's not only about who you know but who knows you. Make yourself visible, contribute to conve...

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