We extend our greatest thanks to the women and men who went to work for us by sharing their knowledge and insights and whose advice appears throughout the book. To our dedicated literary agent, Meredith Bernstein, who supported our vision of our first book, Women For Hire: The Ultimate Guide to Getting a Job, and then helped make this second book a reality. To our passionate editor, Michelle Howry, for her enthusiasm,encouragement, and exceptional eye, and the entire team at Penguin Putnam, including copyeditor, Erica Rose, and especially Perigee publisher, John Duff, for continuing to embrace Women For Hire. To the hundreds of recruiters and human resource professionals--and the thousands of women who attend the Women For Hire events, thank you for making our network stronger each year.

From the creators of Women For Hire, America's #1 job fair for women, comes the definitive guide to on-the-job success. Listen to the proven advice and inspiring anecdotes from senior executives, industry experts, and women just like you to help you make smart career choices and thrive at a job you love. You'll learn:

The business etiquette rules every woman must learn to get ahead

Keys for making your networking contacts work for you

How to toot your own horn--without blowing it

Tips for coping with life's curveballs...while keeping your career on track

The secrets to enjoying your success once you've achieved it!

With self-evaluations, quizzes, and real-life stories, Women For Hire's Get-Ahead Guide to Career Success will help you develop a solid strategy to reach the success you deserve. Get the energizing inspiration you need...and celebrate your achievements along the way.

Acknowledgments

Preface

Introduction

1. You Are What You Think:Confidence Is the First Step to Success

2. Go for the Goal:Proper Planning Will Get You There

3. Repackage Your Assets:Apply Your Talents in a Whole New Way

4. Create the Perfect Package:Maximize Your Strengths and Minimize Your Weaknesses

5. Focus on the Fundamentals:Ace the Essentials of Professional Etiquette

6. Win (Don't Whine) Your Way Ahead:Cooperating with Colleagues and Clients Is Key

7. Use 'em or Lose 'em:Make Your Contacts Work for You

8. Be a Pro in Motion:Learn to Sell Yourself with Sizzle

9. Cope with Curveballs by Swinging Back:Don't Let Life's Challenges Derail Your Career

10. Put Your Mouth Where the Money Is:Speak Up to Get What You Deserve

11. Maintain Your After Hours:Finding Balance from 9 to 5, and Beyond

12. Cultivate a Peanut Gallery:Friends and Mentors Can Champion Your Success

Cheers to Success

Index

About the Authors

Contact Women For Hire and the Authors