Kaleidoscope Careers

A kaleidoscope is a made of pieces of colored glass that are shifted and changed to form infinite patterns and amazing images. The same can be said for the career of many women. The author defines a kaleidoscope career as one where a woman moves from opportunity to opportunity based on her fundamental skills, talents and passions, informed by her learned experience and life demands. In her nonlinear resume, as an employee, professional or entrepreneur, she has or will cross industries or sectors including from public to private four or more times. She may even have gaps caused by external forces where she retools and refocuses.

While others have used the term kaleidoscope career to understand fluctuations in the workforce, this book explores its elements, stages, outcomes and key transitions, as well as overcoming challenges like layoffs and other disruptions. Most importantly, this book is written for the individual. It will help them build unique throughlines and signature remarks for their success and help them forge their path or illustrate for others how it can be done. It will also position the success of kaleidoscope careers for hiring managers and others to understand their is great value in the experience gained through nonlinear careers.

In each chapter, the book provides kaleidoscope career stories of remarkable women (including Cherie Blaire, Paula Dean, etc.) and dives into the stories of others who will inspire anyone at any career stage.