Interview with Debra Shigley, Author of the Go Getters Girl's Guide
Want to know what it takes to be a successful young professional woman in today's economy? Debra Shigley knows and she's telling. In her new book released by St. Martin's Press, The Go Getter Girl's Guide, Debra explains how to: create your own opportunities at work, navigate office politics, manage your diet, fitness, wardrobe and more.
AB: Tell me what inspired you to write the Go Getter Girl's Guide?
DS: Well, not too long ago I was a recent college grad who was searching for how to accomplish my career goals. In my career as a magazine writer, I had the opportunity to interview and work with hundreds of smart, savvy, successful, stylish women -- Go-Getter Girls, as I came to think of them -- who had similar strategies when it came to their careers and lives in general. I thought it would be great to gather up all their priceless pearls of wisdom to help other young women -- especially because no other books on the market seemed to speak to a smart, ambitious young woman who just needed a few simple strategies to jumpstart her career. I sure wish I'd had this book when I was first out of school!
AB: Tell me about the quiz ayou've developed to determine if someone has the qualities of a Go Getter Girl?
DB: Being a Go-Getter Girl is a combination of lots of things-- such as certain characteristics, actions one would take in the workplace, even key items you want to have in your wardrobe. This quiz (http://www.debrashigley.com/take-the-quiz.html) sums it up in a fun way, and can help you take stock of where you are and how you might make changes.
AB: The quiz talks about Go Getter Girls and Get Along Girls. What's the difference?
DB: I think it's the difference between sitting around and waiting for life and opportunity to happen to you (Get Along Girl), and taking charge of and responsibility for your career path (Go-Getter Girl!). Especially in the current economy, the people that get ahead are the ones that have a 'can-do' spirit and demonstrate initiative.
AB: Is it possible to be stylish without spending a fortune on clothes, hair, nails and make-up?
DB: Absolutely! When it comes to clothes, there are tons of amazing discount stores where you can find basics and fun pieces to round out your wardrobe, such as Loehmann's, TJ Maxx, Filene's Basement, and DSW, or not to mention online places like Gilt Groupe or Overstock.com. Try to invest a little more in work basics like your slacks, suits, and heels-- and then spend less on fashion-y tops, skirts, and accessories that will be out of season soon (places like Forever 21, Target, H & M are great). With your beauty regimen, figure out your "priorities". In other words, the 3-5 things that are critical for you to look and feel your best, whether it's great hair coloring, getting your eyebrows done, or a fabulous face cream. Make these non-negotiable parts of your budget and schedule.
AB: What motivated you to leave a law career to embark on a writing career?
DB: I actually never left writing. I went to law school by night while I was a style editor by day for three years-- and was able to keep a foot in both worlds for a time. After graduation, you do reach that 'fork in the road' and I did choose to take a job as an associate in a big law firm, but I always sort of knew I wasn't my true path. I continued to work on the Go-Getter Girls book project as a very back burner thing, and then ended up getting the book deal on my honeymoon. That gave me sort of a natural exit from the law world.
AB: Is your career different now that you imagined it would be while you were in college and graduate school?
DB: It's much better, actually. One question I often ask go-getter girls in interviews is "What were your dreams when you first graduated college?" because it yields such interesting responses. I think many of us get out of school so sure we want to do X. Then we get out there and X, or working your way to a career doing X, isn't quite what we imagined or so fulfilling at all. For me, "X" was being a television producer or news anchor-- not that I really knew what those careers looked like from the inside.
When I was in college, I didn't have as clear a picture of how one can ultimately carve out their own niche in the work world. It's actually a skill that you must learn-- how to take your experiences, talents, and strengths, and have the initiative to create a career doing something you love. Of course, you have to build and cultivate those skills and talents, so hard work and sacrifice is required to get ahead in any career.
AB: What advice would you give to college seniors who are confused about which career to pursue?
DB: Well first, remember that your first job or career doesn't define you. So many women I've interviewed-- and me too!-- have changed course, but each job adds skills and experience along the way. Think of your career more as the aggregate of multiple experiences... not one linear path.
If you're feeling confused, there are some things you can do to try to gain clarity. For example, informational interview like crazy. Try shadowing people for a few days. Take advantage of the amazing access you have as a college senior to professors, industry leaders, and speakers at and around your school. No one really tells you this, but successful people are more likely to give you guidance, advice, and 'take you under their wing' when you are fresh out of school because it's understood that you don't yet have much experience or a network. Start laying the groundwork for long term mentorships right now!
AB: What advice would you give to anyone currently looking for their first job?
DB: Of course, you want to utilize all the career resources and recruiting programs at your college. But also, reconnect with the colleagues and employers from the internships I hope you did when you were an undergrad. Those connections may help you get a job. Again, informational interview to make connections and uncover opportunities. Many of the best jobs aren't posted on websites or formally advertised at all. Make it your goal to get your resume in the hands of an actual person, not just an inbox or online database.
G2G: Thank you for taking the time to talk with us!
Debra's book is available at Amazon and stores everywhere. Click here for more information about how to order The Go Getter Girl's Guide now.