Young women on brink of starting career advised to build around their passions

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December 13, 2009

Young women on brink of starting career advised to build around their passions

Kathy Porter

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20091213/BUSINESS01/912130361/1001/business

"If only I knew then what I know now." How often have you chastised yourself with that lament as you reviewed your career choices? Be honest. You'd have changed some things.

With this in mind, I asked a small group of my peers what advice they would offer to young women about to enter today's job market. What follows is a brief summary of what they said.

"Set goals to become financially independent so that you do not have to rely on anyone else," wrote Paula Rogala, a financial adviser with Waddell & Reed.

Consider jobs that incorporate residual income into your salary. The more traditional entry-level jobs in insurance, finance and real estate all have that very attractive, residual piece built into their career paths.

If none of these jobs excites you, develop a career around what you feel passionate about. Then get involved in direct sale network marketing part time for the long-term, residual income benefits. Choose a company that fits your lifestyle and stick with it.

Make deliberate choices, but don't be afraid to change direction. Network. Network. Network. Be patient. Take care of your physical health and your emotional well-being.

Never stop learning. Be a student of your profession and of self-development. Ultimately, you are your best investment.

What never changes are the practical considerations of becoming financially self-supporting. If you're not afraid to reach out to those who have been there before you, you'll get by with a little help from your friends.

Kathy Porter is the creator and owner of www.MrsBizWhiz.com and can be reached at Kathy@mrsbizwhiz.com.

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This column is written by members of the Rochester Women's Network, whose focus is to help women connect, grow and succeed. For more information, go to www.rwn.org.