Interview with the Author

1Q. What is the premise of They Don’t Teach Corporate in College?

1A. The business world is not a natural fit for college graduates who leave school expecting results from a logical combination of education and effort. Suddenly, the tenets of success we were taught since kindergarten don’t apply, for getting ahead in the business world has little to do with intelligence or exceeding a set of defined expectations. If twenty-somethings want to survive, we have to treat our first jobs like first grade and learn the practical lessons that will help us climb the ladder painlessly. The book focuses on tangible tactics that twenty-somethings can put to work immediately to be successful and satisfied working in the business world.

2Q. What made you decide to write They Don’t Teach Corporate in College?

2A. I graduated from college determined to skip right up New York City’s corporate ladder. But after six months on the job, I was so stressed out that I was ready to join the large numbers leaving the business world for graduate or law school. Eventually, by sticking around long enough, I developed many of the skills I needed to get ahead. I thought that if I shared my experiences with other twenty-somethings, maybe I would save them some of the agida I went through.

3Q. What kind of twenty-something is They Don’t Teach Corporate in College intended for?

3A. Two groups of twenty-somethings will find this book useful. The recent college graduate or college senior who is about to enter the corporate world with no idea what to expect will be introduced to the challenges and unique situations (s)he will likely face in Corporate America and will receive a “how-to” for navigating this strange new world. A twenty-something who has been in the business world for a few years and is unhappy and/or dissatisfied on the job will be reassured that his/her concerns are valid and will learn coping mechanisms to ensure his/her success.

4Q. What has been your experience in the corporate world?

4A. In the beginning of my career, I was very frustrated and confused. I felt lost, like I had been whisked away on a spaceship and had landed on an alien planet where I had to eat oxygen and breathe vegetables. I didn’t understand why I tried so hard but never seemed to get anywhere. Things started to turn around when I put myself under a microscope and took a close look at the persona I presented to the companies I worked for. After polishing the package and learning how to promote it, I practiced human relations skills like diplomacy and cooperation, as well as personal development skills such as organization and time management. I also overcame the negativity that was making me miserable and holding me back in my career. I started getting the promotions I deserved, and today, at long last, I can actually say I’m happy working in Corporate America.

5Q. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you graduated from college?

5A. I wish I had understood that perception is reality and that creating and sustaining an effective corporate persona – or the mature, professional and competent face you project to the work world – is more important than anything else you can do on the job.