Graduate Spotlight: Abby Locke

Abby Locke

AbbyLockePublished in 14 national career books, Abby also holds eight highly coveted and respected certifications including Master Resume Writer, Certified Personal Brand Strategist, Certified Job Search Strategist and Certified Career Management Coach.  She earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts and holds a MBA degree from Boston University.

Abby works global executives who struggle with self-marketing to strengthen their brand reputation, become sought after leaders so that they can earn higher salaries and achieve their career goals.

Our Interview with Abby follows:

What was your first job?

My first job out of college was as a loan clerk for an asset management division of a major NY bank.

What lesson did you learn on that job that you keep with you today?

Hmmm…I really did not like that job, so the only thing I could think of was the importance of understanding office politics

When did you decide to become a coach? Why?

I think back in 2006, when I realized that clients need more than a good resume to have a successful career. I was concerned that I was only giving them half of the help they really needed, so I expanded to personal brand coaching, career management coaching and now executive/leadership development coaching.

What is the most rewarding part of being a coach?

Experiencing clients reach that breakthrough or “aha” moment in their lives and when they finally embrace their true career and personal life goals without restriction, hesitation or concern about what others’ think.

What keeps you enthused about your career?

The ability to connect with others and help them get comfortable and confident in themselves and their career/personal life goals. I believe that each person has an unlocked gem inside and I enjoy the process of helping them identify and uncover that.

How do you evaluate success?

When you can reach that optimal point where your inner peace, balance and overall satisfaction in life that is not dictated by wealth, status, career title or ranking in society. At the end of the day, you have to have peace of mind, joy and passion in whatever you do.

What’s the number one skill or practice that has contributed to your success?

The thirst for new knowledge, I am constantly looking for ways to improve how I serve my clients and how I can be better at what I do.

Who or what inspires you?

I am a Christian woman and govern my life by that faith and its principles first and foremost, but I also admire and get inspired by people who exhibit drive, commitment, diligence and sacrifice in everything they do. The overcomers’ stories are ones I always connect with when I need a boost.

Besides work, what are your passions?

I have a variety of interests and passions, but I truly love food and cooking – I enjoy every ethnic cuisine and find joy in cooking especially for others. Take me to TJ Maxx or Marshall’s and I end up in the home goods section checking out specialty foods and new cooking devices. Besides that I love reading non-fiction books, attending live performances and plays (Cirque du Soleil, Alvin Ailey, etc) and travelling for vacation.

What’s the best advice you didn’t take?

As tough as being a soloprenuer is, I am glad that I didn’t give in and at least gave it a try. Some people thought it was crazy to leave a job with benefits to become self-employed, but it’s a journey I don’t regret…well, I don’t regret on most days:)

What’s one piece of advice you would offer to new/aspiring coaches?

Coaching is a unique gift that only some people have. Make sure that you are serving an audience that you can connect with, relate to and keep being inspired to do your best. Remember that your words can have a profound impact on someone else’s life.

Connect with Abby at:

Abby Locke
Premier Writing Solutions
alocke@premierwriting.com
www.premierwriting.com

Certified by The Academies:

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