When You're Told You're Not Strategic Enough at Work— Here's What To Do

Dr. Luis Velasquez joins us to unpack one of the most common (and frustrating) pieces of workplace feedback: “You’re not strategic enough.” Whether you’ve heard it during a performance review or you’re trying to grow your leadership skills, this episode offers clear advice, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to help you become more strategic in your day-to-day work—regardless of your role. You’ll learn:  What “strategic” really means in the workplaceThe difference between strategic thinking and strategic presence How to respond when you receive vague or confusing feedbackSimple ways to demonstrate strategic thinking—no matter your titleShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/velasquezluis/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re doing all the “right” things at work but still not getting promoted, this episode is your wake-up call. Former Google exec and Wild Courage author Jenny Wood joins us to unpack the hidden career traps that keep high performers stuck—and how to finally break through. From redefining “selfish” to reclaiming your power assets, Jenny shares the real talk (and practical tools) you need to stop spinning your wheels and start owning your career.You’ll learn:What “NAP work” is—and how to stop doing itHow to set career-protecting boundaries (without burning bridges)A mindset shift that will actually help you get promotedShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWMaui Nui Venison is offering our listeners a limited collection of my favorite cuts and products. Head to mauinuivenison.com/contessa to secure your access now.OpenPhone is offering our listeners 20% off of your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/contessa.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Guest Resources:Jenny Wood Website: https://itsjennywood.com/Wild Courage book: https://wildcouragebook.com/Woo with You:Newsletter: https://itsjennywood.com/newsletter Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever feel like work has lost its spark—or wonder if your 9–5 has any meaning at all? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re joined by award-winning journalist and workplace expert Jennifer Moss, author of Why Are We Here?, to unpack what she calls a collective workplace crisis. We explore why so many people feel hopeless or disengaged at work—and what you can do about it, even if you’re not ready to change jobs. You’ll learn:Why burnout and disengagement are symptoms of a bigger issue—and how to address the root causeHow to redesign your current role to feel more fulfilling (without a major career change)Small, science-backed habits that can reignite your sense of purpose and hope at workShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Website: https://www.jennifer-moss.com/ Book: https://www.jennifer-moss.com/why-are-we-here-book Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this 3 in 30 episode, Career Contessa Founder Lauren McGoodwin and Career Coach Marnie Lemonik kick off the first-ever summer series of 3 in 30 —focusing on career clarity from the ground up. The hardest part of a career move is getting started, and we’re breaking down exactly how to do that with three simple steps.Packed with practical ideas and personal stories, this episode is your roadmap for creating space, building clarity, and finally figuring out what’s next in your career. Tune in to learn:Why creating mental space is the most overlooked first step in making a career moveHow a “listening tour” can reveal your hidden strengths and ideal pathsTangible ways to connect your career ideas to the right company culture and environmentShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Resources Figure Out Your Next Career Move: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/figure-out-your-next-career-move/ Marnie’s Career Clarity IG Series: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHFOjMnu0Lc/ Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=2218 Marnie’s Free Resourceshttps://www.marnielemonik.com/resources Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code: CCPOD Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leadership expert Suzy Welch shares why execution — not ideas or charisma — is the real key to career growth. Learn how to build a reputation for follow-through and become the person every boss wants on their team.You’ll learn: ✅ Why execution drives promotions ✅ Habits that build trust and credibility ✅ How to turn ideas into actionShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:CNBC article: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/08/most-underrated-trait-of-highly-successful-people-harvard-career-expert.html Becoming You book: https://www.suzywelch.com/books/becoming-you-the-proven-method-for-crafting-your-authentic-life-and-career/Website: https://www.suzywelch.com/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a world where AI is transforming the workplace faster than ever, self-leadership has become a must-have skill. But what does it actually mean to lead yourself—and how can you start?In this episode,  Leading Yourself author and leadership consultant Elizabeth Lotardo breaks down four essential practices of self-leaders. Whether you're navigating uncertainty, looking for more meaning in your work, or trying to stay motivated without a micromanager, this episode is your guide to becoming the kind of leader your career needs—starting with you.You’ll learn:The 4 core practices of self-leadership and how to apply themHow to find meaning in your work, even if your job isn’t your dream roleSimple habits to stay accountable, focused, and resilient—even when no one’s watchingShow NotesGet 15% off OneSkin with the code CONTESSA at https://www.oneskin.co/  #oneskinpodWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Elizabeth Lotardo website: https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/ Leading Yourself: https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/writing Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Feeling overworked and undervalued? You might be operating below the resentment line—but you don’t have to stay there. In this episode, Amina AlTai, author of The Ambition Trap, shares four key strategies to help you set boundaries, stay motivated, and reclaim your career satisfaction. You’ll learn:How to recognize when you’re operating below the resentment line and why it happensPractical strategies to set boundaries, assess capacity, and navigate trade-offsHow to advocate for fair compensation and resources without fear of backlashShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Amina website: https://www.aminaaltai.com/ The Ambition Trap Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/734356/the-ambition-trap-by-amina-altai-foreword-by-rachel-rodgers/ Overcome work conflicts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-overcome-workplace-conflict-5-strategies-that-work/id1434354911?i=1000532948090 Overcome the frozen (middle) career stage: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overcome-the-frozen-middle-career-stage/id1434354911?i=1000483134747 Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Struggling with small talk? Dreading awkward silences? According to Harvard professor and author Alison Wood Brooks, there’s a 10-second trick that can instantly make you a better conversationalist—and it’s backed by science. In this episode, host Lauren McGoodwin sits down with Alison to explore why meaningful conversations matter more than ever, and how we can all get better at them with just a few intentional changes.You’ll learn:The “10-second trick” that boosts connection and flow in any conversationThe biggest mistakes people make when trying to be engaging—and how to fix themHow stronger conversation skills can accelerate your career and build confidenceWhether you're prepping for a performance review, networking event, or just want to connect more deeply with the people in your life, this episode will give you practical tools to speak up and stand out.Show NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Sponsor:Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.Guest Resources:Buy the book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/708473/talk-by-alison-wood-brooks/Follow the TALK book tour: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/events/ Practice using call-backs: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/conversation-book/ Download the TALK workbook: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/conversation-book/ Follow Alison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-wood-brooks-7b98b826/ And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profalisonbrooks/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What sets top performers apart? In this 3 in 30 episode, Career Contessa founder Lauren McGoodwin and coach Marnie Lemonik share three key lessons high achievers live by—like embracing self-awareness, mastering adaptability, and owning your time. Packed with practical tips and tools, this episode will help you level up at work and beyond. Listen in to learn:Why adaptability is your most employable skillHow self-awareness is redefining leadershipSmart, realistic strategies to own your time and energyShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ 3 in 30 Episode - Routines & Habits: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-in-30-our-top-work-routines-habits/id1434354911?i=1000703562586 Rule of 3 worksheet: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/productivity-rule-of-three/Productivity Powerhouse: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/productivity-powerhouse/ Resources The Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wnMarnie’s Virtual Resume Review Service: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/virtual-resume-review Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code on Marnie’s Website: CCPOD Sponsors:Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at shopify.com/careercontessa. Found: Open a Found account for FREE at found.com/contessa. Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Talking about your achievements can feel uncomfortable, but self-marketing is a crucial skill for career growth. In this episode, career coach and author Michelle Schafer shares how to confidently articulate your value—without feeling like you’re bragging.You’ll learn:How to reframe self-promotion as sharing facts, not boastingKey ways to showcase your value beyond your resumeSimple daily habits to build confidence in self-marketingShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWGuest Resources:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleschafercoaching/Website: https://mschafercoaching.ca/Free offer: A free chapter from my book Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transitions with Purpose (or buy the whole book)- sign up here: https://mschafercoaching.ca/cultivatingcareergrowth/Email: [email protected] a complimentary 30 min discovery call with me here: https://calendly.com/coaching-with-michelle-schafer Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/SponsorOpenPhone is offering our listeners 20% off of your first 6 months at openphone.com/contessa. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.