Career & Strengths Coaching Insights
From The Magpie’s Perch
Curious Magpie’s blog provides expert advice about CliftonStrengths®, career transitions, negotiation, and leadership—written by career coach and company founder Gretchen Heaton.
Grieving (and Growing) Through Job Loss: A Strengths-Based Guide
Sudden job loss can leave individuals feeling untethered, anxious, and unsure of what comes next. This post offers 10 research-backed strategies to help professionals process grief, rebuild confidence, and transition into the next chapter with strength. Learn how to reflect on what mattered, honor the loss, reconnect with personal values, and take meaningful steps forward—all while cultivating gratitude, support, and self-compassion. Whether you're facing layoff, reorganization, or career disruption, these tools can help you navigate with resilience and purpose.
Can You Really “Future-Proof” Your Career? Yes—And It Starts With This Often-Overlooked Strategy
Worried about automation and the future of work? You’re not alone—recent data shows nearly 40% of Americans fear their job could become obsolete within five years. Drawing on insights from a Fast Company article and futurist Scott Steinberg, this post outlines smart strategies to adapt, including upskilling and emphasizing human strengths. But it also highlights one overlooked key to long-term success: building strong professional relationships. Discover why networking—not endless resume submissions—is your most powerful tool in a changing job market, and how working with a career coach can help you navigate uncertainty, build resilience, and thrive in your career.
The Perils of a Passionate Career: Why ‘Follow Your Passion’ is Terrible Advice
Tired of being told to "follow your passion"? You're not alone—and you don’t need to listen. In this post, I break down why this popular advice creates stress and sets unrealistic expectations. Drawing on research from The Harvard Business Review and personal experience, I explain why aligning your career with your strengths and values—not chasing a single “true calling”—leads to greater satisfaction and long-term success.
How to Successfully Decode Body Language During Your Salary Negotiation: Why Mastering Nonverbal Communication Can Give You a Powerful Negotiation Edge
Knowing how to successfully read an employer’s body language can give you a huge edge in salary negotiations. In this post, I share 10 nonverbal cues to watch for—like signs of stress, micro-expressions, and group dynamics—so you can respond strategically and negotiate more effectively. Perfect for professionals preparing for job offers, promotions, or high-stakes conversations.