Speak Up & Lead with Sahar Mandi

Mirroring is sometimes referred to as the Chameleon Effect and it is essentially when we are mimicking or reflecting what our conversation partner is doing back to them.Multiple research studies have shown that this technique often causes others to like us and trust us more, making for deeper connections and better conversations. So in this episode, I review physical, verbal, and written mirroring techniques and how you can incorporate each into your overall communication strategy.In case you want direct links to the previous episodes I reference in this show:Small talk episodeVirtual coffee with higher-ups episode* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode46You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and Pandora.

As we head into February, I am wondering how your New Year resolutions are coming along? If you're like the rest of us, you've likely not kept up with the goals you set for yourself because achieving lasting behavior change is not as simple as merely wanting for it to happen.In fact, there are 5 different stages of behavior change to go through, which we review in this episode:ContemplationPreparationActionMaintenanceRelapseBy understanding what stage we might be stuck in, how to get un-stuck, and what to expect next, we can better set ourselves for success in achieving the changes we want.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode45You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and Pandora.

Small talk has such a bad reputation as being boring or inconsequential. But this couldn't be further from the truth!In this episode, I share two mindset shifts that will make you more open to having small talk, followed by two golden tips to make you better it.If you'd like to connect with me on this or any other topic, please email me at sahar@saharmandi.com. I always love hearing from you and welcome our own opportunity to make small talk :)* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode44You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and Pandora.

Having allies — people who know you and are willing to advocate on your behalf when you aren't in the room — is one the most effective ways of achieving career success.In this episode, I share two specific strategies that will help you raise your professional profile both within your team and also your organization, so you can fast-track your way to the top.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode43You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and Pandora.

How often have we let the fear of not already being good at something hold us back from growing or moving in the direction of our dreams?In this episode, I share the inspiration I took from my dear friend's newborn baby to remind myself  of the simple first step we all need to take in order to become good at anything.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode42You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and Pandora.

Coming back from my 2-week hiatus, I am excited to chat with Nashville-based licensed therapist, Jamila Walker, in this episode as we discuss:Loneliness and how many minority professionals may be suffering form it without realizing they areMicroaggression, where it comes from, how to address it, and why it can be so difficult to navigateSelf-compassion and how it's a crucial component of dealing with both loneliness and microaggressive environmentsTo connect with Jamila and her team at NEW Counseling, you can:Visit their websiteRead their insightful blogFind them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedInOr email them directly at contact@newcounselingpllc.comFor more on loneliness, be sure to join Jamila's December Conscious Conversations event on Instagram Live, happening Wednesday 12/17/20.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode41You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Although I didn't move to the U.S. until I was 11, Thanksgiving has become one of my favorite American holidays.Yes, a big part of that has to do with the great food we get to eat at the thanksgiving table. There's turkey, stuffing, casseroles, pies… and if you're an immigrant, probably a bunch of other really delicious dishes from wherever your family is from too.But there's also the thankfulness part. The part where we humble ourselves. Acknowledge our privilege. And feel grateful for everything we have, everything our life is blessed with JUST as it is.In this episode, I explore the many psychological (and by default, physiological) benefits that feeling thankful has on us. I also share 3 practical options on how you can adopt an attitude of gratitude more regularly into your life.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode40You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

If a colleague were to ask you about your weekend or after-work plans, would you open up and share... or do you prefer to keep your personal life separate from your professional one?This episode explores why sharing more of your personal life at work could be a great strategy to improving your productivity, happiness, and overall job satisfaction.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode39You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

It's annual review time again! To help you prepare as best as possible for this all-important meeting, this re-air episode dives into what you can do before, during, and after your review to position yourself for optimum success.Email me at sahar@saharmandi.com if you'd like a copy of this 7-part guide. I'll send you a PDF within 2-3 business days.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode38You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Impostor Syndrome affects most people to a certain degree. But it can manifest in very specific ways in immigrant communities.In this episode, I chat with first-gen Chicana psychotherapist, Lupita Martinez, on how Impostor Syndrome impacts minority professionals — followed by what we can do about it. Tune in for a very special sit-down full of invaluable content, soul, and laughter. To connect directly with Lupita, follow her on Instagram or visit therapyofthesun.com.Click HERE to purchase Lupita's special edition sticker in honor of her grandmother (Abuelita Chelo) and in support of mental health counseling, education, and outreach inside the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode37You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

To continue last week's conversation on introversion, this week, I dive into the simple two-step process I use to manage my  energy levels in order to be the social butterlfy my business requires me to be. * * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode36You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

There is a lot of talk about what it means to be an introvert and with that comes a lot of false assumptions.In this episode, I dive into what it actually means to be an introvert and how we can overcome the limiting beliefs we assign ourselves to make sense of our introversion.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode35You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Last week, I missed my weekly episode upload and I came down pretty harshly on myself for it. Luckily, a pre-scheduled therapy session gave me a more nuanced understanding of self-compassion so I could apply the same care I show other people to myself as well.In this episode, I share my new learnings on self-compassion with you. If you want to evaluate your own level of self-compassion, you can use this widely-accepted scale:The following statements describe how you act toward yourself in difficult times. To the left of each, indicate how often you behave in the stated manner on a scale of 1 to 5.For the first set of statements, use the following scale:Almost                                                 AlmostNever                                                   Always1              2              3              4              5____ I try to be understanding and patient toward those aspects of my personality I don't like.____ When something painful happens, I try to take a balanced view of the situation.____ I try to see my failings as part of the human condition.____ When I'm going through a very hard time, I give myself the caring and tenderness I need.____ When something upsets me, I try to keep my emotions in balance.____ When I feel inadequate in some way, I try to remind myself that feelings of inadequacy are shred by most people. For the next set of items, use the following scale (notice the endpoints of the scale are reversed from those above).Almost                                                 AlmostAlways                                                Never1              2              3              4              5____ When I fail at something important to me, I become consumed by feelings of inadequecy.____ When i'm feeling down, I tend to feel like most other people are probably happier than I am.____ When I fail at something that's important to me, I tend to feel alone in my failure.____ When I'm feeling down, I tend to obsess and fixate on everything that's wrong.____ I'm disapproving and judgmental about my own flaws and inadequacies.____ I'm intolerant and impatient toward those aspects of my personality I don't like.How to score your test: Total your 12 statement scores and divide it by 12* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode34You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

In this episode, I am excited to sit down with Adrienne Dinkelacker, who is the older sister of Loreen Dinkelacker from episode 27!In addition to being a seasoned recruiter, Adrienne is also a certified coach who has been leading meditation practices for the past 5 years. Together, we discuss key strategies candidates can implement to manage their stress and reduce their anxiety, so they can show up as the best versions of themselves throughout the interview process.You can find and connect with Adrienne via email or Instagram. You can also learn more about her recruiting firm and the many services they offer job-seekers at theatlasgroup.co* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode33You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

The past few episodes have been heavily focused on how we can overcome our fears and thoughts of self-doubt so that we can speak up confidently in front of our peers. But why is speaking up such an important skill in the first place?There are two big reasons why speaking up is directly tied to the level of success we experience in our career — and that's what we explore together in this episode.If you'd like to join Nawal and me in our 4-week course dedicated to making you an all-around better communicator, Sunday, September 20, 2020 is your last chance to register. Please visit saharandnawal.teachable.com to learn more and to enroll.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode32You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

As an addendum to last week's episode, I invited Nawal Mustafa (aka @thebraincoach) onto the show this week to continue our discussion around confidence.Nawal has a B.Sc. in Behavior, Cognition and Neuroscience and an M.A. in Clinical Neuropsychology. Currently, she is a PhD candidate and does research in the area of psycholinguistics – how humans process language in their brain. To learn more about a 4-week program we put together, to specifically help you become a more confident, assertive, and powerful communicator, visit saharandnawal.teachable.com. Please note, registration is only open until September 20, 2020.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode31You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

In this episode, I share an audio clip from Nawal Mustafa, who is a neuroscientists PhD candidate working on becoming a clinical psychologist. In it, she shares some simple and effective strategies for boosting your confidence when you feel nervous or anxious to speak.Nawal and I did a joint webinar together all about how to be a more effective communicator and combat self-doubt. This audio clip is part of what Nawal discusses during this virtual event.To watch our full webinar, please visit saharandnawal.teachable.com. Please note, this  replay will only be available until September 13, 2020.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode30You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

In this episode, I sit down with licensed therapist, executive coach, and founder of Run Walk Talk, Sepideh Saremi to discuss the pivotal role mental health plays in determining our success at work.Tune in for an insightful conversation around:How to instantly boost your mood + maintain that feeling throughout the dayHow we may be harming our mental well-being by unconsciously engaging in very common everyday habitsHow to incorporate rest as part of "the grind" (and not feel guilty about it!)Tips on managing our inner critic and navigating Impostor SyndromeA deep dive into how to work through and process difficult emotionsWays to adopt and benefit from self-compassion* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode29You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

A question I get all the time is whether or not I can help someone get rid of their accent. Many people think their accent makes others not like them... or not take them as seriously... or not want to listen to them.Some even think their accent prevents them from becoming good public speakers. But the truth is — none of the above is your accent's fault. In this episode, I share 4 perspectives on your accent that you may not have considered before. These "thought nuggets" could help you feel more confident in your accent, and make your connections so much more genuine as a result.* * *For a direct link to episode #2 all about how to not care what others think about you, visit saharmandi.com/episode2For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode28You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

In this special Ask A Recruiter episode, I sit down with seasoned tech recruiter, Loreen Dinkelacker, to get her insights and advice on every step of the interview process. Together, we explore:Pre-InterviewHow to best position yourself as a candidate to get noticed by recruitersTips on crafting a resume that stands out and tells a storyWhether or not cover letters are needed (and if recruiters even look at them!)If you should apply for a job that you only partially qualify for During InterviewWhat to expect when interviewing with the recruiter v. human resources v. the tech team v. the CTO/CEO (and how to best prep for each)How to avoid unusual mistakes during a video interviewPost-InterviewThe correct etiquette and best strategies on sending thank you notesHow soon to follow-up on a position you've interviewed forHow to approach discussions around compensation & negotiationTune in for an in depth behind-the-scenes look at the hiring process. This episode is jam packed with valuable information from a recruiter's unique point-of-view.You can find and connect with Loreen on LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also learn more about her recruiting firm and the many services they offer job-seekers at theatlasgroup.co* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode27You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Given the huge role interviews play on whether or not we get the job, the whole process can make even the most confident and competent of us feel a little nervous. But while some anxiety before and during a job interview is normal, we can't let that feeling grow into an overwhelming doubt — of our skills, ability, and overall worth.In this episode, I share three simple strategies to help you get your pre-interview impostor syndrome under control, so it doesn't get in the way of you putting your best foot forward and landing the position you're after.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode26You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Silence is an under-rated, yet powerful tool that can make you more influential and effective in business. In this episode, I highlight 4 key situations where using silence can help you make a bigger impact — in how you present, how you negotiate, how you run meetings, and how you connect with peers.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode25You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Regardless of your situation or circumstance, the only way you will ever achieve your goals and accomplish your dreams is if you know your value and believe in what you can do.In this episode, EHS engineer Paulina Castrellon shares how she defied the odds to become the first to graduate college in her family — and how her conviction in herself catapulted her to professional success, despite being a woman Latina minority in a very male-dominated field.You can connect with Paulina on either Instagram or email. * * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode24You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Joy triggers help us remain balanced and sane amid hard or stressful situations. Learn how to find & cultivate your own joy triggers in this episode :)* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode23You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Whether we like it or not, self-promotion is one of the best tools for people to get ahead in the workplace. It can also be a particularly effective way for women and others from underrepresented groups to make sure that their accomplishments are voiced, known and ultimately recognized.However, a lot of us aren't comfortable self-promoting. In this episode, we explore why self-promotion can feel like bragging and address how we can overcome this feeling so we feel empowered to highlight our wins.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode22You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Perfectionism is something I've always struggled with — and in this episode, I share some of the silliest things I've done... followed by 5 strategies I'm actively working on to overcome this obnoxious trait.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode21You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Microaggressions are statements, actions, or incidents that indirectly, subtly, or unintentionally discriminate against members of a marginalized group.This episode explores the pitfalls to lookout for when responding to a microaggressor, and outlines effective strategies for how you can turn the incident into a productive conversation instead.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode20You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Grab your pen & paper and tune into the audio of an interactive webinar event I put on with Nawal Mustafa, a Clinical Neuropsychology PhD candidate.Together, we explore 3 strategies and 3 case studies on how you can increase the confidence in your voice and get recognized for the value you have to offer.Email saharandnawal@gmail.com for any questions that may come up.And to learn more about the 4-week online course Nawal and I will be launching on Monday, June 15th, visit https://saharandnawal.teachable.com/* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode19You can find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

As a communications strategist, the #1 question I get asked is a variation of: How can I do a great presentation?Content aside, to me, all great presentations have 3 things in common that make them impactful, memorable, and fun. I break down each element in this episode, so you can adapt it into your next talk or presentation.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode18You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Minority professionals often feel like they are at a disadvantage at work... simply because they are a minority. However, this doesn't have to be the case.By leaning into your vulnerabilities and embracing exactly that which makes you "the other," you can increase your influence and standing among peers through your own brand of soft power.That is why being vulnerable is a minority's secret strength and this episode dives into how exactly you can accomplish that.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode17You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Knowing that your boss plays favorites AND that the object of their affection isn't you can be a really tough position to navigate. But while ignoring the whole situation might feel like the easiest thing to do, it's not the best approach in the long-run.A culture of favoritism at work can lead to increased stress, decreased job satisfaction, lowered long-term goal achievement and, in some cases, even burnout.In this episode, we explore 4 expert-backed tips on how you can handle the situation instead, to ensure you are setting yourself up for success regardless of whether you are your boss' favorite... or not.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode16You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Our mental frame is a structure that we use to give meaning to different situations. How you perceive the world, the way you see yourself, how you view others, how you interpret life events, how you communicate & express yourself… these are all determined by our mental frame.Since we have the ability to frame things either in a constructive way, or in an unhelpful way, this episode explores how you can leverage the power of the reframe to your advantage, so that you can turn disadvantages into your strongest assets instead.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode15You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

As humans, we  experience and feel a range of emotions throughout the day... Some that make us feel good — like joy, love, and belonging — and others that don't leave us feeling our best — like fear, anger, or annoyance.In light of the current coronavirus pandemic and the underlying anxiety most of us are experiencing as a result of it, our negative emotions might be outweighing our more positive ones right now, which is likely making us more irritable than usual. But while there are a host of things we can do to better react or cope with our negative feelings, this episode focuses on what we can do if we are on the receiving end of our boss or colleague's bad mood.The five suggestions outlined are paraphrases from author and clinical psychologist Nick Wignall, referencing his September 2019 Medium article titled, "How To Handle Other People's Bad Moods Like a Pro." They include:Treating strong emotions as a puzzle, not a problemTrying some reverse empathyBeing a mirror, not a mechanicValidating our own emotionsClarifying our responsibilityBeing able to make our peers and managers feel supported when they are in a bad mood can not only deepen our relationship with them in the moment, it can have lasting and favorable impacts down the line on our career growth as well. Tune in to see how you can best set yourself up for success.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode14You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

With how extensively COVID-19 has impacted our economy, many of us are thinking and/or worrying about our finances. So for today's episode, I tapped into the expertise of Pearl Chan, one of the co-founders of Snowball Wealth, to get tips on:How we can financially protect ourselves in these trying times, andWhat to expect from the $2.2 trillion stimulus plan that the U.S. government recently passedSince the relief bill makes up the majority of our conversation, I've divided the episode into chapters so you can reference and find the most relevant parts of the discussion as quickly & easily as possible. Here are the questions that get answered:Chapter 1: Stimulus ChecksHow many checks or payments can we expect?Does everyone qualify for these payments?How will the money be distributed?Since the 2019 tax filing deadline has been pushed back from April 15th to July 15th, what happens if people haven't filed their taxes yet?What if last year, someone's income was too low and they didn't need to file their taxes, how can they ensure they receive this help?Is this check counted as income, so will we have to pay taxes on it?When can we expect this money to arrive?If the payment doesn't arrive on time, how can we be sure it wasn't misdirected?Is there a particular government agency responsible for any other questions listeners might have on the stimulus checks?Chapter 2: Unemployment BenefitsWho is covered by the extended program that's included in the Stimulus Plan?Where do gig workers, freelancers, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals fall?What if someone is a part-time worker who has lost their job because of the Coronavirus, but their state doesn't have part-time worker unemployment benefits. What are their options?What if someone relies on a school, a day care or another facility to care for a child, elderly parent or another household member so that they can work, and that facility has been shut down because COVID-19. Are they eligible to receive these benefits?What happens if someone has a job and their place of work is considered essential so it's open, but they can't work because they've tested positive for the virus and have a mandate to stay home?How long will this unemployment assistance last?What if someone is already receiving unemployment benefits unrelated to COVID-19. Do they still qualify for Stimulus help?Will the additional money from the Stimulus Relief Plan disqualify folks from other programs they're currently in?How are employees who've been put on furlough affected by all this; is it better to be unemployed at this point vs. furloughed?Chapter 3: Student LoansThe federal government has already waived two months of payments and interest for many federal student loan borrowers. Is there a bigger break now with the new Stimulus Bill?How can people know if their loans are eligible for the Stimulus Package help, or not?Can those who've made payments past March 13th ask for  refund?Will there be accrued interest on loans during the granted 6-month grace period?What if someone is trying to qualify for the public service loan forgiveness program by making 120 monthly payments, will the 6-month suspension affect that?A lot of companies offer tuition or loan assistance programs. What happens with that here?Pearl answers all these questions rapid-fire style, making of a short-and-sweet episode that's jam-packed with invaluable financial information. So tune in, learn, and enjoy!* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode13

With so many of us switching to remote work in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, I am sharing 5 of my most effective WFH strategies in this episode, so that your communication with your colleagues, your standing in the company, and the quality of work you're able to produce don't suffer while we wait this pandemic out.By being able to quickly adjust to and cope with this changing landscape of work, you can position yourself as a star professional whose career not only survives, but thrives during this time of adversity.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode12You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

For Women's History month, I'm highlighting the amazing women I'm lucky enough to have in my orbit by featuring them on the podcast.As my final interview in the series, I sit down with FinTech professional and Women's Financial Advocate, Rachel Anderson, for a lively conversation around finance:What does it mean and what are some helpful tools & resourcesWhy it's especially important for minorities, and women in particular, to care about investingAnd how men can support the women in their lives to become more financially secure / independentTune in to learn how you can make your money work for you!* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode11You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

For Women's History month, I'm highlighting the amazing women I'm lucky enough to have in my orbit by featuring them on the podcast.This week, I sat down with Hiro Nishimura, a Special Education teacher... turned IT Engineer... turned Technical Writer, who has had to overcome extreme odds to be where she is today. Tune in for a very candid conversation that'll inspire you to be the "Hiro" in your own story and draw from your inner strength to live your best life. * * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode10You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

For Women's History month, I'm highlighting the amazing women I'm lucky enough to have in my orbit by featuring them on the podcast.This week, I chat with Lacey Bisnett, an IT Project Management Director, who discusses what it's like being a minority in leadership, opening up about:The unique struggles she's had to face on her way to the topAdvice she gives up-and-coming professionals about how they can stand out and break into leadership for themeselvesAnd the #1 quality she thinks all good leaders must haveTune in for a conversation jam-packed with useful information + insightful takeaways.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode9You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

For Women's History month, I'm highlighting the amazing women I'm lucky enough to have in my orbit by featuring them on the podcast.This week, I sit down with Silicon Valley Tech and Commercial Recruiting Manager, Yordanos Asmare, to get the inside scoop on:How to best build out and use your resumeHow to approach negotiation conversationsAnd what pitfalls to look out for during your job search processTune in for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the hiring process, from a recruiter's unique point-of-view.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode8You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

For Women's History month, I'm highlighting the amazing women I'm lucky enough to have in my orbit by featuring them on the podcast.To kick off these series of specials, I sit down with software & solutions engineer, Yasy Mandi, to discuss her experience as a first-generation immigrant to the U.S.:How that's shaped her identityWhat she thinks are her biggest immigrant assetsAnd what challenges she's had to overcome... not only as an immigrant, but also as a rising woman in techTune in to be inspired, and to discover how to tap into your own immigrant magic!* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode7You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Does the word “networking” send shivers down your spine?If you answered yes, you're not alone. Like many of my clients, I am also not the biggest fan of being in a crowded room full of strangers, exchanging business cards and making small talk.But the good news is, you don't have to! If this traditional form of networking is not for you, it doesn't mean you can't still take advantage of other, less icky networking strategies that often actually yield better results. I'm sharing my top 3 alternative networking strategies in today's episode, which are taken straight out of a free online course I'm currently offering called From Introvert to Introvert. While these particular networking techniques are perfect for introverted professionals, they can universally be applied to anyone who doesn't like typical networking events.Give it a listen and let me know your thoughts.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode6You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Your annual performance review is one of the most important conversations of the year. However, most people approach this meeting very passively: they go in, expecting to receive feedback on how they've been doing and what they can do to improve the team's workflow or the company's bottom line... but they don't have any solids plans around what asks they'll be making of the company to make their jobs a little better or their work-lives a little more fulfilled. To me, that's a total missed opportunity because the whole purpose of a performance review is to better align you with the company to make sure it's a win/win situation for BOTH parties. You just have to remember that he responsibility of bringing up your needs and making sure they're being met 100% falls on you.So to better help you make the most of this crucial conversation, I'm sharing my 7-step best-practices with you in today's episode. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective pre, during, and post meeting strategies ─ complete with real-life examples, resource suggestions, and sample scripts ─ to help you 1) prepare for your annual review, and 2) ensure you are on-track for receiving the compensation (monetary or otherwise) you're after.To make this process even easier for you, I've created an accompany worksheet for this episode, which can be downloaded at saharmandi.com/annualreviewprep * * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode5You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Philosophy: a study that helps us enhance our problem-solving abilities, our communication skills, and our powers of persuasion... But it's a subject that few of us rarely take upon ourselves to think about or explore.Thank God for philosophers who do this heavy lifting for us!I'm really excited about today's episode because I have Dr. Mohammad Rafi in with me, who is easily one of the most interesting people I've ever met.He is a real life philosopher whose perspective comes from his PhD in Philosophy and his many years spent living in the United States, as well as in Germany, France, and Iran.A passionate university educator, Dr. Rafi has spent a considerable amount of time throughout his 15-year teaching tenure with students of immigrant or minority descent, who are often first-time college attendees. During the semester, he makes it a point to relay his Six Life Lessons with them, which I am happy he's agreed to also share with us here.Listen in on this enlightening conversation, as we discuss:RespectGoalsMaturityPerspectiveThe Spectrum of HappinessSelf-CompassionWhether you've never heard these lessons before, or have but have forgotten them, I'm confident you'll get something really valuable out of this discussion.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode4You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

Have you ever wanted to raise your hand in a meeting and contribute a thought or idea that came to mind... But then, before you could actually go through with it, another voice popped in your head saying things like:"There's a reason this hasn't been shared yet, it's because it's a bad idea and everyone but you knows it.""No one's gonna understand what you're saying with that accent.""Look how stupid you look, no need to draw any attention to yourself.""You better not mess up, or everyone's gonna think you're incompetent.""What if someone has a follow up question to what you say. You know you can't think fast on your feet."... And the commentary just went on and on, until the meeting moved on from that particular topic and you didn't get to share what you originally wanted to in the first place.Sound familiar?THAT is the voice of your inner critic. It comes out at different times throughout the day in both personal and professional settings -- and it hinders us from speaking up, taking action, or growing outside our comfort zone. But the inner critic isn't all bad. In this episode, we'll learn more about where our inner critic comes from, why it's there, and how we can take advantage of it... so it can serve us and benefit us, rather than hold us back from achieving our goals. * * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode3You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

One of the main reasons most of the people I work with are reluctant to speak in front of others is that they're afraid of messing up -- saying the wrong thing, having their accent fumble their words, or thinking in a different language and drawing a blank when they have to speak in English.At its core, this fear stems from a worry of what other people will think of them if they mess up -- that they're stupid, slow, uneducated, or not good enough. But the problem when we care too much about what others think of us is that it holds us back from having great conversations, forging meaningful relationships, and expanding our knowledge. I believe not caring what others think of you is such an important skill for everyone to have. And this episode focuses on equipping you with tools to be able to do just that. * * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode2You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.

With the new year and the new decade already well underway, no doubt many of you are thinking about your career and how you can level up with a promotion in 2020. But that's easier said than done, right? Because in order to get a promotion, you have to advocate for yourself and tout the unique skills you bring to the table. And as immigrants & minorities -- who aren't always as comfortable in the spotlight -- this might be a really tall order.In fact, immigrants and minorities are more likely to expect their results to advocate for them rather than directly asking for a promotion. Which is a strategy that can easily backfire, because managers often times end up overlooking them for promotion and expecting them to continue to perform the same tasks they trusted them with in the past.So in today's episode, I'm going to share the top 4 must-do strategies I give every client who is looking for a promotion, so you can hopefully get yourself to where you want to be too.* * *For a direct link to this episode, visit saharmandi.com/episode1You can also find and subscribe to Speak Up & Lead on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePodcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio.