Peace and love, and (just a little) something more...

My heart goes out to anyone whose soul is deeply troubled during these unsettling times.

I have heard many wonderful ideas out there for how I, as an ally, might support our Black and Brown siblings, including by backing Black/Brown-owned businesses and buying their goods and services. (Un)fortunately, I am feeling grateful and privileged, and am quite a minimalist, so I have everything I need for the moment, and I would not feel right to buy things just for show.

Instead, I offer the only thing I know how to give: my gift, my energy, my ears, my heart, my time – and in this case, specifically, my expertise as a career coach.

I know that right now may not be an ideal time for people to fully focus on their career development or job search, especially when many fear for their physical or mental safety, but sooner or later, when things subside, livelihoods will be at stake. Bills will need to be paid. Jobs will be required. Anxiety-inducing interviews will be had. You know… life.

To that end, I would like to extend a gratis (no cost) career coaching session to any Black/Brown brothers and sisters, and Black/Brown non-gender-conforming siblings.

During the month of June I will be dedicating a limited number of spots each week to any Black folx who may be interested. These sessions are typically used to critique one’s resume or LinkedIn profile, practice interviewing / salary negotiation / networking skills, or explore various traditional or non-traditional career paths.

If this offer is uncomfortable to you or offends you in any way, thank you for having that feeling (you are human, and are allowed to feel exactly whatever it is you feel), and I also invite you to question and challenge your feelings from time to time.

You have feelings, but you are not your feelings. Just like you are not your middle finger, even if you have a middle finger. At the end of the day, I endeavor to not judge how others choose to respond or mobilize during this national-global movement. Perhaps you might enjoy that same luxury and extend it to others in return.

If you don’t identify as Black or Brown, but still require career coaching services during these uncertain times, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I always extend a brief (5-10 minute) complimentary phone consult to anyone and can provide a wealth of free articles and resources.

To any Black or Brown folx interested in taking advantage of this perhaps uncharacteristic offer, please email me directly at [email protected] (as I will be limiting my use of social media, including LinkedIn, during these weeks). And if it matters to you, the typical cost of my career coaching session is $250 for the hour. Though, at the end of the day, I’ve always believed that an hour of my time is no more (or less) valuable than an hour of yours -- which is why it always hurts when I am reminded that corporate lawyers and finance directors make crazy bank while social workers often hover just above the poverty line, but that’s a story for another day. Please stay healthy and safe. Love and peace to all.