Book Description

All New Business Ideas for Enterprising Women Who Want to Work at Home
With the right entrepreneurial spirit and know-how, you can join the millions of enterprising women who run their own businesses from home. Bestselling author and home-based business expert Priscilla Y. Huff guides you through the basics of starting your own business, from choosing the job that's right for you to writing a business plan. She then presents 101 innovative home-based opportunities centered on the hottest emerging business trends — health care, the environment, computers, personal services, food, and more!
Packed with ideas, tips, and hints, this informative resource provides advice on:
·Assessing the real start-up costs and potential income for each job
·Finding invaluable sources — from professional organizations and publications to Web sites
·Choosing the right experts to help you with your business
·Finding the tools, training, and skills you need to succeed
·Learning how to price your market
·Creating effective publicity and marketing, including Internet advertising
A home-based business can give you the flexibility, extra income, creativity, and independence you crave — this book gives you the resources to make your business venture a success! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

I enjoyed it!
If you're a person who's been searching online for a "real" home based business this is the book for you. I was delightfully surprised to see some of the idea's I've had rolling around in my head on paper. It's a totally different experience to take the book with you and read it as opposed to looking at a computer screen.

One suggestion I've never seen before was to have your own art gallery in a room in your home. Of course if your home looks like Martha Stewart's that's no problem. The author suggests signing the artists to contracts so that you both make money when the art sells. I think that's a wonderful idea. Of course if you're not really keen on the idea of having strangers tour your back bedroom you could rent a small office space and advertise, advertise, advertise.

Another idea I really loved was running a doggie day care center!! To those who are strictly business minded these ideas may sound far fetched but to those of us who long to break out of the mold these ideas light a fire to our creativity. One more business suggestion I thought was interesting is the laundry service. Even if you don't have a washer and dryer you could pick up people's laundry and drive it to the laundrymat. I know I've tried to bribe people to do my own laundry!!

All in all this book is a worth while read.

Great Practical Book!
I think this is a great book!! Another reviewer said that the Bison breeding wasn't very feasible. On my country bike rides I pass a house that has bison. I never could figure out why they had them? Now I know.

Many of these suggestions you will see listed online but there's something about being able to hold the book in your hands and dream about all of the wonderful things you could do. You can dream small or large. For example if you have an extra room in your home or an outside attached room you could contact artist's and sell their work on commission from your own gallery. I really like that idea.

If you've always dreamed about being your own boss while staying at home this is the book for you. Start slow and steady. Just take on what you can handle. Do you have a washing machine and dryer? You could wash people's laundry. I'd never thought of that idea but I know in India this is quite common. I don't want to give away too many ideas. I just love this book. When I first got it I thought this would be one of those books I look at and decide to auction off. Nope. This one's a keeper!

I really loved that you don't have to have advanced degrees to go into business for yourself. Don't let people discourage you from earning a decent income on your own using your own brain power.

It's okay...but has a limited audience
This book really starts out good, it has a lot of very informative info. With topics like "A Strategy for Success" and "Franchises, Distributorships, MLMs and Other Home Business Opportunities" you can find a lot of useful information. Ms. Huff explains the business process, as well as all the legalities surrounding small-businesses. That's the first part of the book.

The second part of the book is all the jobs, yes, all 101 of them, and their descriptions. She includes very useful info like start-up costs, estimated income, things needed to run the business, and where to get more information.

My only complaint with this book is that it covers a broad amount of job areas and not that well. There are jobs that she left out and those that weren't explained very well, and some that weren't even useful.

This book is not going to help you figure out what your interests are and what is the perfect home-based business. If you have a little interest in just about everything from arts and crafts to computers, and want to know what you can do with your talents, then you may want to pick this up in the library.

It's a good reference guide, and really, that's ALL it is. I don't regret that I bought the book, I just wish I knew what I was buying before I set such high expectations.

What a cool book
This is a really interesting book, although some of the businesses are kind of far-fetched (bison breeder???) but the ideas are cool. I would reccomend this more as a guide to side careers, most of them are risky or take a lot of time to get off the ground. Also most of them seem to be based around larger cities' needs. ... Read more

Book Description

Financial planner and broker Julie Stav has been helping women get rich for years--but her inspiring story began when she was forced to leave her native Cuba as a teenager. Penniless, she escaped to America, became a school teacher and married. A divorce left her a single parent with a pile of debts and thirty-three cents in her checking account, so she turned to the stock market. Her investments paid off--and her story provided invaluable inspiration to the tens of thousands of people who eventually joined her at investment clubs.

Now, in her first hardcover and an upcoming TV show on PBS, Julie Stav is ready to share her hands-on techniques with the world. You don't have to be a mathematician or money expert, she explains--all you need is your initial investment (no matter how small) and a sound grasp of basic principles that can help you pick winners, recognize opportunities, and ditch the duds before they drain your funds. In addition to guidance on getting started, she offers tips on finding (or founding) an investment club--a support system that can give you a major advantage in the market.

Smart, sensible, and down-to-earth, Julie Stav has accomplished the impossible--she's simplified the stock market, and put a new world of wealth within the reach of every woman. ... Read more

Reviews (29)

It's About Time!
.... She turns stock market jargon into material we can use toimprove our lives. The book is informative and well-written, as wellas easy to understand and to follow. And believe it or not, Julie is a very, very funny person. This is the first book on finances that did not alienate me or make me feel as if I had to get my MBA before I could understand and use her system. I can't wait till her seminars are available on video and audio. Sign me up in advance!

Wow! Julie made it so darn understandable.
I couldn't believe how Wall Street has made understanding investing so complicated, when it's not.

Julie has taken a so called difficult subject and made it really simple to follow. In fact, as simple as 1-2-3 and A-B-C.

Now I can talk the Wall Street lingo with the Big Boys, while laughing all the way to the bank.

Thanks, Julie.

Get your share of money and publicity!
Businessmen and politicians learned long ago that getting the money and publicity go hand-in-hand. Not just any publicity, but solid personal publicity. If we want people to value our abilities, we must first show that we value ourselves - by making sure our accomplishments are visible to targeted audiences. If we want people to invest in our companies, to buy from us, or to hire and promote us into the corner office, they have to know who we are, what we have accomplished and why they should do business with us! Self-promotion is a valuable business tool that businesswomen MUST add to their strategies for success. Following a careful step-by-step process will help even the most timid become comfortable with the concept of self-promotion. (from Marion E. Gold, award-winning author of "The Personal Publicity Planner: A Guide to Marketing YOU")

Outstanding
This is the most user-friendly investment book I've read. Ms. Stav has a gift for bringing herself down to a fundamental level to explain the important details of investing. I will be getting Fund Your Future...

Best Book for Women who want to understand the market!
Before I read this book I did not know much about how the stock market and mutual funds work. After reading it I was able to understand the concepts and the language of the stock market world. I love the fact that it is easy reading. There are no complicated terms or formulas to understand; it's the perfect book for anyone starting out in this very intimidating world of stocks and funds. I think every one including men and young teens who are interested in understand the stock market would benefit greatly from reading this book first. A lot of knowledge is gain from reading it. I can't wait to read her next book! ... Read more

Book Description

Using Leadership Q—a 38-item, self-scoring, gender-neutral test, developed by Shoya Zichy and based upon the work of Carl Jung — women can identify which of the four profile groups best matches their leadership personalities and then goes on to explore which of the eight subsets, or specific leadership styles, applies to them.Women and the Leadership Q includes exercises that help readers further refine their own styles, build upon their strengths, and minimize their weaknesses. In addition, interviews and profiles of more than thirty-eight internationally well-known women illustrate the different groups and their leadership styles. Profiles include: Hillary Rodham Clinton, Governor Christie Whitman, Diane Sawyer, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, Lt. Governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Wendy Wasserstein, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, and Alexandra Lebenthal. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Problem with the Questionnaire(s) in the Digital Version
I've not been able to really complete the reading and excercises in the book because the questions in the digital version of the book were scanned in and are unreadable on my IPaq. I would like to find out if this "problem" will ever be fixed so I can get some use out of the e-version of this book.

Visibility is a key to "Power &Influence"
To achieve power and influence, people have to know who you are, what you stand for, and why they should promote you, do business with you, or even VOTE FOR YOU! The authors give great tips on creating a leadership role for women, but creating a strategic 'personal' publicity plan needs to be part of the package.Visibility is part of leadership and to really take charge of your future - you have to create a significant image in the workplace, in the community - or on the political scene.

Great insight on yourself and others
This book is insightful and fun. It punctures the usual stereotypes about the difference between male and female leaders. It quickly showed me that it was okay to be competitive and task driven. After all, one in every three women is. I wish I had read it 20 years ago. The test is incisive and Zichy's advice is right on target - become comfortable with yourself, play to your strengths and appreciate what others bring to the table. I also loved reading about the women she profiles - about their backgrounds, ambitions and views on leadership. This book is a unique toolkit. There is something in it for everyone.

Women and Power
Do We Really Want Women to Have More Power? Reviewer: John Westergaard from New York, New York USA Hey, guys, this is a scary book. Zichy tries to tell us her power 'model' applies equally to men, but I'm skeptical. It's about how women can scheme to attain power. Sure, it's a must read for us guys but not to apply the Zichy program, although that's not a bad idea either. It's a must read because we need to protect our backsides. Know what's coming. Zichy puts out a lot of sneaky, tricky stuff like 'how to get along with your boss', how to create 'a more effective team' (read 'takeover coup'), how to steal business from guys by 'better client management', etc. She admits her own business went up 50% after applying the Zichy system. Well, who do you think she took the business away from if it wasn't guys? The book provides a toolkit with exercises and case studies of 38 successful women of which two are in Washington -- Christie Whitman and Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison . You don't think this system works? She's also got president-in-due-course Hillary in there. 'Women and the Leadership Q' could be the most dangerous book around!!!

Makes you see people in a whole different way
Does your boss demand for detail drive you batty? Or does your spouse's need to schedule every weekend leave you exasperated? Then pick up this very user-friendly approach to the Myers-Briggs and temperament personality model. Zichy's profiles of dozens of prominent women are witty and engaging, to be sure. But what I found most useful are the tools that she provides for understanding all normal folks that populate my personal life - my mother-in-law, work colleagues and kids. We used it for our last family dinner and laughed ourselves silly. This stuff really works, and best of all, it does so without asking you to change yourself or anyone else. ... Read more

Book Description

Praise for On Course for Business

"I have been playing golf for a long time. It is one of life’s greatest accomplishments as well as one of the great secrets to success. Women, for years, have been left out on purpose and a revolution needs to happen for them to play in the golf game of life. On Course for Business: Women and Golf by Suzanne Woo is part of that revolution."
–Stedman Graham, Author, Educator, and Businessman

"In her new book, Suzanne Woo offers solid, accessible information not only for women executives who want to use golf as a tool to grow their businesses but also for new golfers looking for a trustworthy primer. No matter their skill level, women golfers will find this book a helpful resource that gives them a clear grasp of the basics, while at the same time promoting their enjoyment of the game."
–Leslie Day Craige, Editor in Chief, Golf for Women magazine

"Suzanne’s book has captured so well the many ways golf can enhance one’s life and career. It is so compatible with the mission and vision of the EWGA that it is a pleasure to offer it my endorsement."
–Sara L. Hume, Executive Director, Executive Women’s Golf Association (EWGA)

"This book is an indispensable guide for any woman who plays–or wants to play–golf with clients and colleagues. In a friendly and nonthreatening approach, Woo shares strategies that will motivate you to play for pleasure and possible business opportunities. It is truly advantageous for any professional to learn how to use the game of golf to give you insights on a person’s business style."
–William R. Hueffner, Vice President, Global Sales, National Car Rental ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Not JustFor Women Only
I am new to the financial industry and quickly discovered that golf is a common method of doing business.A colleague of mine heard me discussing this and suggested that I read this book as a prelude to my golfing with clients. I took the advice. Much of the book is directed towards women who are new to the game. However it is applicable to anyone interested in playing golf in a business setting. In fact there is a chapter devoted to men golfing with women decision makers. It includes specific suggestions on how to make a novice woman golfer feel comfortable. Again, though relating to women, most of the suggestions apply to both men and women. I remember when I started golfing, though not in a business setting there was still that uncomfortable feeling one can get in an unfamiliar environment. I would have found this book a confidence builder then as much as I do now as my golfing takes on a business orientation. I highly recommend this book to both men and women who intend to start using golf as a business asset.

THE Business Development Guide for Women
What an amazing book!Women have been left out, or behind, far too long in busines, in large part because they don't realize or appreciate how important golf is in American business.This book provides practical, understandable information on etiquette, playing rules, and business savvy.It's THE guide for women who want more confidence on the course, and who want to use golf to find, build and strengthen important business relationships.Thank you, Ms. Woo, for this much needed, beautifully written book.

Great kickstart to business relationships!!
As a businesswomen and relatively new golfer I found Suzanne's book, On Course for Business, to be an excellent primer on the do's and don'ts for using golf in a business environment.Now,
I'll be more encouraged to invite clients and prospects out for some quality on course time as a way to create and build relationships.I'm looking forward for the good summer weather so I can put what the book taught me into practice.

Fantastic Read!
I bought Suzanne's book about two weeks ago because I've just started a new business and realized that I'm missing out on networking opportunities by not being on the golf course. What a fantastic and inspirational read! Her sense of humor combined with her specific examples of women who've had the guts to get out there and play (regardless of their score) has motivated me to get out there and join them! Last night, I had the privilege of hearing Suzanne speak at a SF Chamber of Commerce Event. Her presentation, like her book, is filled with easy to follow tips and techniques for playing the game of "business golf." I would recommend her book and seminars to anyone interested in learning the ins and outs of this all-important networking tool.

Must read for women in business
Last week I finished reading On Course for Business, just in time. This week I had a golf game with a new client and my management. As a very novice golfer, I was nervous, but the book showed me it isn't about golf swings. By knowing the etiquette rules - very important in golf - I was confident on the course. More importantly, the book taught me how to observe the behavior of my golfing partners and judge how they will behave in business. It definitely works. I was surprised at how much I was able to learn about my company's new client, both professionally and personally. I also made stronger connections with my management, which I know will help around review time. The book is well written, with a sense of humor and understanding of business issues women face. It's easy to take the information and apply it immediately. If you want to set yourself apart, and confidently work and play with the big boys, read this book! ... Read more

Book Description

For women, by women, a sassy soup-to-nuts guide to entrepreneurship in a male-dominated business culture.

Why is it that 95 percent of all investor financing for new businesses goes to men? Women certainly don't lack viable business ideas or the leadership skills to make them soar, but-as the authors, four highly successful entrepreneurs and investors, explain-female creativity and heartfelt commitment alone don't inspire seed-money decision makers. To persuade these mostly-male panels, a woman needs to present her idea in ways that are proven to "speak to" men. Alas, there is as yet a lack of mentors for would-be female entrepreneurs, no "old girls'" network in place to teach them these skills.

Stopping this gap with wit and hard-won wisdom, The Old Girls' Network divulges the secrets to start-up and funding success and connects women to the resources they'll need along the way. Written with you-can-do-it attitude, The Old Girls' Network includes inspirational and instructive women-in-business stories, self-assessment quizzes, and recommended strategies for every stage of the entrepreneurial process. A veritable start-up Bible, The Old Girls' Network comes complete with a "tool kit" of sample forms, documents, letters, and templates for necessary agreements, ensuring that the next generation of female entrepreneurs will be admitted to the proverbial locker room of business success. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A book every woman business owner should read.
This book is jam packed with advice on every page. The inspirational stories give insight on "how it is done" as well as showcase highly successful women entrepreneurs; the tool kit provides a useful blueprint to follow right down to sample legal forms; and the down to earth style makes it easy for women just starting a business to easily follow along. That is not to say seasoned women business owners will not benefit from reading the book to take their business to the next level with the "how to's" spelled out for you.

The Good Old Girls' Network
Ok..Close your eyes. What would the world look like if women had access to capital markets and economic empowerment? It would look far different and we know it. Now close your eyes and cultivate that business concept that stops you working for a paycheck and gets you into that morphic, entrepreneurial state. Please feel free to move forward and change the world with confidence. Why? Because these authors, these mentors, these thoughtful women have shown up and delivered a superior "play by play" manual. This manual includes all the tools and examples you will need to get started, stay strong, and finish first. Make no mistake, these women are out to change the economic environment for all women. What legacy will you leave the women in your life? Buy the book, and cultivate your dream to life!

Why Not Me!
Two weeks after picking up The Old Girls' Network my new photography business was in full swing! The first chapter provided me with the validation I needed to move from thought to action. I have my Business Certificate, secured my company name, opened a small business account and am preparing a full array of my products to be displayed in the main branch of the bank for the holidays. My 6 new retail distributors will realize more sales as a result of this opportunity. I am now experiencing entrepreneurial mania. My passion has exploded into raw enthusiasm and my ideas for new products are endless. The Old Girls' Network has become my daily resource, a partner if you will, in my new venture. I need the business savvy detailed in the book which provides the balance for both sides of my brain. I need to stay on target with my vision and business statements. And, everyday that I have to put myself out to the world for either acceptance or rejection, I need to remind myself - Why Not Me!
Whether you are considering your own venture, are already in your own business or are deep into a career in corporate America, you must have passion and you must have your own Vision and Business Plans. I recommend this book to every woman I know.

Finally...a buiness "Bible"...that speaks to women
Everything you ever wanted to know about starting a buisiness...and more. This book is like sitting down with the Julia Child, Martha Stewart, and Betty Crocker of the business world....and having them share all their best recipe secrets.

Whether you're starting a buisness in your kitchen, or already running a multi-million dollar company...the book is filled with advice you can really use....and not just the kind of stuff you find in other buisness books. In addition to dealing with the fine points of financing and marketing, it is filled with practical insights into the emotional and personal skills it takes to see a business through to success. And, it's also full of lots of case studies that let you see behind the scenes of entrepeneurial successes and failures. It's like business school in a box...only much more fun.

A must for anyone [male or female] in business. Every savy mother should buy one for her daughter!

An Essential Read
This is a must read for anyone. Whether you are starting your own business, want to learn about raising capital or are interested in the stories from many amazing women who are interviewed, this is a wonderful book! ... Read more

Book Description

In Use What You’ve Got, Barbara shares her hilarious stories about growing up, getting into trouble, failing miserably, and then starting over again.In each chapter, she comes back to one of her mom’s unconventional lessons, and how it applies in the real world of business.Whatever your calling, the homespun lessons that work for Barbara will help you use what you’ve got to create success in your life.Whether you’re just starting out, fighting your way up the career ladder, or reentering the workforce, Use What You’ve Got is an owner’s manual to your most valuable asset.

Use What You’ve Got was released in 2003 by Penguin Putnam in hardcover and will be released in January 2004 in paperback. ... Read more

Reviews (55)

Daring, funny, insightful, a must read
I have known Barbara both professionally and personally for many years. This book of home spun tails outshines any Madison Ave. marketing book or Harvard Business School review and it's all true. Barbara is just as down to earth in person as she is in the book and she has spent a life time helping people like you. I know because she has been a role model, councilor, friend and boss to me over the years. You must read this book if you want to grow as a salesperson, business person or just as a person. Get it for your kids also, so they know that anything is possible, with hard work and creative thinking. It will make you laugh, cry and dream! It shows that you can start with humble beginnings and conquer the mountain tops. This book also gives you a glimpse inside of Manhattan Real Estate from someone who has done it all...against all odds. Barbara paved a new path, on old worn out streets. She changed the rules for the big boys in Manhattan real estate and now they play by her rules. Well done Barb!!
P.S. I have read the book 4 times and I am working on my 5th.

Must read for all real estate professionals!
A page turner. American Dream is alive and well in NYC. From $1000 to $2 billion in 25 years, selling the business for $70 million, tricks of the trade, bully the bully (Donald Trump), hire the best attitudes, the best lawyer is not the one that knows the law...... are practical business tips to survive. I met Barbara at a conference in Rockland County, NY where she gave a talk about this venture. But reading the book gives much in-depth knowledge. I will use this book in my Marketing and Management classes at the College level. This real-life success book is much better than the cases that are published by the Harvard Business School.

A book every real estae professonal should read!
I loved this book! Barbara's real estate lessons are entertaining and fun. Regardless of where you sell real estate the rules and the lessons are the same. I'll recommnend it to every new agent that comes to our firm.

An incredible book
This is a must-read book if you are in ANY type of business. Barbara is a pioneer of her time. She intertwines business with fundamental lessons that her mother bestowed upon her. Use this book as a guide in real estate and you will most definitely be successfull. If you do not buy Barbara Corcoran's book, it will be like taking a wad of cash and throwing it out the window.

BUY IT TODAY!! It's great!!

Great Book! A Must for any Real Estate professional
I read this book while studying for my real estate license. I learned a great deal about the business while reading this book. I'd recommend it even if someone wasn't into real estate. Ms. Corcoran is a great feminist role model! ... Read more

Book Description

"Some Leaders Are Born Women" invites women to build the leadership qualities within themselves. Through example after example of female leaders, the book explains how leaders can head businesses, be mothers, volunteer, start companies or work for charitable organizations or government.

The book's stories of and by 37 female leaders, from all walks of life, illustrate the seven practices of leadership described by Ms. Gustafson:

1. Dare to dream.
2. Grow through challenge.
3. Set powerful goals.
4. Focus on the power and possibilities in people.
5. Communicate effectively.
6. Set high standards, and live accordingly.
7. Live your priorities.

The women's stories resonate with honesty, hope, ideas, and success. It is a book for women beginning careers, for those celebrating motherhood and volunteerism, and for those rising in a chosen profession or contemplating a new venture. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Some Leaders Are Born Women
Women are leaders too, and all women have leadership potential and abilities. This is the message of this new book by Joan Eleanor Gustafson.

Some Leaders are Born Women tells the stories of 37 female leaders from different walks of life - so the book is easy to read, interesting and down-to-earth. It tells you how these women got their feet wet! and rose to the challenges within each of their lives, communities, businesses and families. The stories of these women ar wonderful and truly inspiring.

Joan outlines the seven essential characteristics shared by women leaders in the world today and outlines the ways in which each of us can become more effective in our lives by building and developing the leader that already lives within us. Readers who enjoy self help strategies will find the advice here helpful and relevant.

Although most of the stories are about American women, some come from other countries. I enjoyed discovering the commonalities in the stories despite the diversity of occupation and location.

It is clear to me, from reading this book, the Joan Eleanor Gustafson is herself a dynamic leader and has a lot that is interesting to say about a topic that is still difficult for women to grapple with, acknowledge and own - that some leaders are born women! ... Read more

Book Description

How do two-career couples manage in a one-career world?It’s about Time examines this mismatch between outdated scripts and the experiences of dual-earner couples.It broadens our understanding of occupational and family career strategies couples use in light of the widening gap between their real lives and the outdated work-hour and career-path roles, rules, and regulations they confront. It’s about Time draws on the data from the Cornell Couples and Careers Study to demonstrate that:

•regardless of income, time is a scarce commodity in

dual-earner households. With two jobs, two commutes,

often long work hours, high job demands, business travel,

several cars, children, ailing relatives, and/or pets -

time is always an issue.

•time is built into jobs and career paths in ways that make

continuous full-time (40 or typically more hours a week) paid

work a fact of life in American society.

•the multiple strands of life--career, family and

personal--unfold over time. Spouses move through their life

courses in tandem, with early choices - to have children or

not, to work long hours or not, to switch jobs or not, to

relocate for his or her career or not--all having long-term

consequences for life quality and for gender inequality.The evidence from this book suggests that it is about time for the United States to confront the realities and needs of contemporary working couples and indeed, all members of the new workforce. To do so requires more than Band-Aid, short-term (and often short-sighted) policy remedies. It’s about Time argues that it is essential to re-imagine and reconfigure work hours, workweeks, and occupational career paths in ways that address the widening gaps between the time needs and goals of workers and their families, at all ages and stages of the life course. ... Read more

Book Description

Since 1970, women have made widely publicized gains in several customarily male occupations. Many commentators have understood this apparent integration as an important step to sexual equality in the workplace. Barbara F. Reskin and Patricia A. Roos read a different lesson in the changing gender composition of occupations that were traditionally reserved for men. With persuasive evidence, Job Queues, Gender Queues offers a controversial interpretation of women's dramatic inroads into several male occupations based on case studies of "feminizing" male occupation.

The authors propose and develop a queuing theory of occupations' sex composition. This theory contends that the labor market comprises a "gender queue" with employers preferring male to female workers for most jobs. Workers also rank jobs into a "job queue." As a result, the highest-ranked workers monopolize the most desirable jobs. Reskin and Roos use this queuing perspective to explain why several male occupations opened their doors to women after 1970. The second part of the book provides evidence for this queuing analysis by presenting case studies of the feminization of specific occupations. These include book editor, pharmacist, public relations specialist, bank manager, systems analyst, insurance adjuster, insurance salesperson, real estate salesperson, bartender, baker, and typesetter/compositor. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great reference!
Any female working in a formerly-male profession will find this book of interest. Since it's been written, several more professions have become "feminized" more quickly than has the workforce as a whole. Those of us who are in these professions find that our colleagues argue the same issues over and over without looking to other, similar professions, or to work like this, for information about what is occurring. Although the book may leave you with a bit of a negative attitude, hey, discrimination IS negative! The authors do use this as a call to action, pointing out that what has occurred is not necessarily going to continue, that occupational gender changes are in a state of flux, and that simply understanding what has occurred in the past may help us to change the future.

Heavy textbook reading
This book was assigned for a Gender Inequality at Work class. Nothing much about this book would have gotten me to read it otherwise. Reskin and Ruse certainly can back up their theories regarding women's entry into male-dominated occupations with their extensive data, but they seemed to have a negative attitude about women's capabilities and future potential. One of the most frustrating things about the book was their continual reference, without elaboration, to the "women's liberation movement" of the 1970s as a factor in women's accomplishments. The obscure references to the "women's liberation movement" made it seem like a magical occurance that was without explanation. I would have liked much more anecdotal information. ... Read more

Book Description

The startling truth is that the average 25-year-old woman will earn half a million dollars less than her male counterpart over the course of her career. Under-earning is an insidious problem with psychological roots that run deep. Luckily, there's help. This book is a practical, step-by-step guide for under-earning women who are ready to turn their lives around. It demystifies the process of under-earning, explores its underlying psychological and emotional issues, and offers practical advice and strategies to help overcome it.Why Women Earn Less explains how you can be better paid for the work you do. It maps out, on a practical level, how to overcome the bad habits that contribute to earning less than you deserve. As you do so, you will find yourself not only benefiting from an improved bottom line, but also enjoying a renewed sense of optimism and personal satisfaction. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Noble Poverty... me?
I must admit when I came to the chapter about Noble Poverty I thought... "Well that's soooo not me! I don't see money in a negative way. As a matter of fact, I like it quite a lot." But then Mikelann went through the different types of Noble Poverty and I started to register how I emotionally relate to my personal worth in financial terms. Such as over extending my volunteer projects, under bidding projects, or even giving away free service to be seen as "nice." How I would accept the "thank you" over a competitive rate. **Note, thank you should be said but not in place of paying your bills.**

Mikelann gives a clear, balanced, and usable plan to rethink and retool your financial wellbeing. I highly recommend this book for those looking for emotional connection or need a usable workbook (yes it's a workbook too!) to take full control of their worth.

An Action Guide to Stop Underearning
I inadvertently came across Mikelann's site while surfing the internet. She used a term "underearning" which I had never seen before. When I read the description, I thought she had a pipeline into my life, and wanted to break the cycle I was in.

When I heard that she was publishing this book, I couldn't wait to read it. In each chapter, she dispels the myths, pulls you out of "The Money Fog" and gives action steps to break the insidiousness of underearning.

I refer to her book every day. It is an absolute good fit whether you decide to use the steps in the book, go on to professional consultation (financial as well as psychological - and she gives helpful hints to work with those professionals) or with groups such as Debtors Anonymous.

If you want to turn your relationship with money around, this is the book to get!!!

Waking up Sleeping Beauty!
I don't want to deal with finances. Even though I'm not happy with my paycheck, I'd rather sigh on my way to the bank, then take action. How did this happen -- I had a different plan for myself. Why do I let it go on?

The description above is me, and why I got intrigued when my girlfriend told me about this book. WOW -- what a mind opener -- between 'Waiting for Prince Charming' and 'Giving Myself, My Talents, and My Earnings Away" (two psychological traps Ms. Valterra writes about), I have been asleep when it comes to my money situation. This book has served as a great wake-up call and my attitude has already shifted.

Part two of the book gets very practical, and helped me know what to do next -- I hated budgets, but 'spending plan' put a different emphasis on managing money, so I'm trying it out.

Because of this book -- simply written, easy to read, and "real", I am awake and ready to take control. Thanks Ms. Valterra, you've done me a huge favor...(and thanks Lisa, for giving me the nudge to buy it.)

Wish I¿d read this years ago!
I wish I'd read this book years go. It could have saved me a LOT of money. I didn't actually read it until recently, when my sister gave it to me because I'd been telling her I was nervous about asking my boss for a raise. Not only did the book help me successfully get a raise, it also really opened my eyes to the way I constantly (like a lot of other women) undermine myself in the workplace. For example, I've been known to accept a verbal "thank you" instead of the cash bonus I deserved. No more! Since reading this book, my income has gone up more than ten percent, and I expect it to go up more in the coming months as I put Ms. Valterra's principles into practice. Finally, for the first time in my life, I'm getting near to earning what I deserve.

The most helpful personal finance book I've ever read
I never expected to actually enjoy reading a book on personal finance. Learn something - yes, but enjoy it - no. For starters, the book is well written, flows well, a good blend of anecdotes from working with her clients, facts about financial isssues, and practical steps for the reader to take. The absolute best part of this book is the chapter that deals with asking for a raise. We all know the rule of salary negotiation, whoever names a number first, loses. I know that, and the person doing the job interview knows that, so who's going to win? Ms. Valterra gives the absolute best dialog I have ever seen for handling the salary negotiation. Even if I had gotten nothing more out of this book, that was worth the price. But there is more.

The book lets the reader clarify their emotional relationship to money. Are we ashamed because we earn too little or too much? Do we let fear rule our finances, fear of asking for a raise, fear of what people will think of how we spend? What money values did we grow up with? Do we hang on to our parents money values out of habit, even though they don't work for us? I always thought money was about facts, about math. I was suprised to find out just how many emotions were involved in my financial choices. Once those emotions are identified, Ms. Valterra gives us a practical path to follow to either change the values that don't work for us or redirect them into positive areas.

The book is full of real advice. Several examples from her clients, so the reader can relate to real people in real situations. A number of worksheets are included so you can find out where your money is going, (are you like me and always amazed at how broke you are at the end of the month? - find out why), worksheets that let you map out a spending plan that will work in your life, with your income.

And finally, like the title suggests, it lets you identify how and why you are underearning and gives immedite steps to take to correct that. Buy this book. It will pay for itself a thousand times over. ... Read more

Book Description

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Bored with your job? Unsatisfied with your life? Have those dreams -- you know, the ones you put on hold because they weren't "practical" -- been giving you the nagging feeling that "If I don't do it now...."

Pamela Robinson and Nadine Schiff show you how to start changing your career -- today! With wit and insight, these savvy women help you to:

• learn the Ten Commandments for Changing Careers
  
• develop your own personal marketing plan
  
• fine-tune your dream by taking a revealing career test
  
• stay current with business trends and technology
  
• try on a new career and a new approach to life
  

So, what are you waiting for? ... Read more

Book Description

As China has evolved into an industrial powerhouse over the past two decades, a new class of workers has developed: the dagongmei, or working girls. The dagongmei are women in their late teens and early twenties who move from rural areas to urban centers to work in factories. Because of state laws dictating that those born in the countryside cannot permanently leave their villages, and familial pressure for young women to marry by their late twenties, the dagongmei are transient labor. They undertake physically exhausting work in urban factories for an average of four or five years before returning home. The young women are not coerced to work in the factories; they know about the twelve-hour shifts and the hardships of industrial labor. Yet they are still eager to leave home. Made in China is a compelling look at the lives of these women, workers caught between the competing demands of global capitalism, the socialist state, and the patriarchal family.

Pun Ngai conducted ethnographic work at an electronics factory in southern China’s Guangdong province, in the Shenzhen special economic zone where foreign-owned factories are proliferating. For eight months she slept in the employee dormitories and worked on the shop floor alongside the women whose lives she chronicles. Pun illuminates the workers’ perspectives and experiences, describing the lure of consumer desire and especially the minutiae of factory life. She looks at acts of resistance and transgression in the workplace, positing that the chronic painsâ€"such as backaches and headachesâ€"that many of the women experience are as indicative of resistance to oppressive working conditions as they are of defeat. Pun suggests that a silent social revolution is under way in China and that these young migrant workers are its agents. ... Read more

Book Description

settle for less.

Nicole Williams, the author of Wildly Sophisticated, knows that the real key to success isn't saving more money... it's making more money. Earn What You're Worth shows working women how to up their earning power--by using their unique skills and abilities to build a rewarding, lucrative career.

Readers will learn to:

- Learn the difference between going into debt--and investing in their career
- Sell themselves at work--without selling their soul
- Discover their individual gifts and talents--and use them to get a raise
- Value what's most important to them--and dump bad financial habits
- Decide what they really want out of their career--and get it

Once women get over their fears of dealing with cold, hard cash, they'll have the confidence to ask for--and get--what they deserve. Crammed with useful information, uncommon advice, inspiring stories, and insider secrets to success, Earn What You're Worth will motivate women to invest in the most important stock of all...themselves. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Investing in Myself
I love the idea of investing in yourself, even if it means going into debt for a little bit - I'm a commodity worth investing in and this book has given me the courage to see that. A completely different way of looking at career success and money.

Great advice that every woman should know.
The work world presents unique challenges for working women.Learning to navigate the new terrain is explained with great panache by Nicole Williams. I discovered many things about myself, my career and my life! A must read for women in business.

This book taught me what I'm worth ... and I got a new job!
The title of this book absolutely spoke to me ... I felt like I was worth more than my job title or my salary reflected. This book taught me not just how to spend LESS but how to actually make MORE money. The real thing I took away from this was the difference between deprivation (not your choice) and sacrifice (your choice) ... how to tell the difference and how to turn short-term sacrifice into long-term financial gain. ... Read more

Book Description

Nine Lives offers a candid look into the hearts and minds of nine extraordinary women business owners from around the country.

There is Judy Rosenberg who, on a perpetual diet, grew up with a gnawing, aching sense of deprivation. The cookies she coveted, the cakes she savored—all seemed just out of reach. So what did Judy do when she grew up? She started a chain of bakeries driven by her pure appreciation for that which is self-indulgent and beautiful.

And there is Rebecca Boenigk, the CEO of the only woman-owned business ever to trade on NASDAQ who found that the quarterly numbers "dance" wasn’t to her liking and bought her company back from the public market.

"The stories the women told were awe inspiring, funny, mind boggling . . . and sometimes painful," Cantando wrote in the preface. "There were tough moments when the women opened up about still-raw details of their past … Yet, time and again, these brave women said that they were willing to swallow their discomfort if other women could learn from or be inspired by their struggles." ... Read more

Reviews (9)

a business of one's own
As Marsha Firestone, current President of The Women Presidents' Organization writes in her Foreword: "Women in the past century have made magnificent strides...[t]he women in this book are magnificent...because of who they have become. These powerful stories...encourage each of us to seek our own new sense of self..."

I wholeheartedly agree. Each woman's story will resonate with any Reader's own struggles -- starting from childhood, learning how to be an adult, a wife, a mother, a business woman & then, inevitably, the descent into the pit & the crawling back out. In sharing their stories they offer their greatest lessons on how to survive & thrive in the business world.

Highly recommended by RebeccasReads.

Especially for those women seeking to make their mark
Compiled by Mary Cantando with the assistance of Laurie Zuckerman, Nine Lives: Stories Of Women Business Owners Landing On Their Feet is an excitingly informative, evening inspiring, collection of personal experiences by outstanding female entrepreneurs who have braved both inner considerations and barriers as wells as economic, financial, and competitive obstacles in order to pursue their hearts and careers in successful and trailblazing ventures, ranging from the CEO of Neutral Posture, to the former missionary and current owner and general manager of JC Tec Industries. Nine Lives is enthusiastically recommended reading, especially for those women seeking to make their mark in today's challenging, competitive, and rapidly evolving business world.

Be encouraged to set high goals
This book really paints a picture of what it takes to own a business as a woman. It is encouraging to see that the struggles that these women went through were all worth it in the end. It has given me courage to never give up in busines and to set my goals high, despite the obstacles.

We make our own luck!
This book underscored my belief that we make our on luck! I love the story about the owner of Rosies Bakery in Boston...how she worked through the night and went to bed with flour in her hair because she was too tired to even take a shower...now she owns a chain of bakeries! And the "Queen of Barbeque" who got tired of being passed over for promotions in her male dominated industry...she just quit and started her own business. I feel like these women are my sisters, and I'm proud of them!

What Great Role Models!
I was especially intrigued by the way that women who were raised in such difficult cirumstances could go on to own and run multimillion dollar businesses. Nikki, who came over as a teenager from Iran not even able to speak English; Adrian, who was raised in a deaf household; and Barbara, whose early childhood memories include having crosses burned on her front yard. It's amazing that these women were able to overcome these challenges to achieve the American Dream. What great role models...and what a great reading experience! ... Read more

Book Description

CLAIM YOUR POWER

Reviews (7)

One page--even one idea--can be worth the cover price
I've just begun reading this, after picking it up and seeing answers to some of my own dilemmas in its pages.She says things with finality, and I don't always agree with her.For example, I like to think that, someday, I WILL drive a Jaguar.But, that said, when she talks about letting go of things that haven't worked in the past, and moving forward to a better future filled with achievable goals... this is a very good book for people who are depressed or otherwise feeling "stuck" in life.If you don't actually buy a copy yourself, ask your library to order it.

Inspiring!!!
I am not an avid reader.I tend to read more newpapers, professional journals.When I started reading this book I couldn't put it down.I finished this book in one night.A record for me.

This book is uplifting, inspiring and true!!!I felt motivation I haven't felt in a long time since I read this book.

Dream Big
This is a very inspiring book. When I initially started reading, it felt like just another feel good book with general advice. However as I progressed it picked up and became quite interesting. The advice given by the author is not new or unique, but offered in the context of her own life experiences, become very useful.
One shortcoming of this book, as for many books of this nature, is that it seems to address primarily a younger audience. What about the readers who are now in their mid-forties, early fifties and have less time to start over and be effective? Understandably the author is in her thirties, hence this shortcoming. Nevertheless, I wish I had a book like this available to me when I was in my twenties, because the ideas offered are inspiring and most valuable.

Great Reading!!
Using experiences from her own life, Shaw shows you how to chart a course of personal and professional success. Actually, the book is part autobiography, part "how to."Including her early setbacks and how she overcame them is what gives the book "meat." She's also a risk taker. I loved reading about how she mustered the guts to do something nobody thought she could do. She does this quite a bit! Some books just give you empty platitudes about "positive thinking," but neglect to include examples of how to handle unexpected problems. Not Shaw.She tells it all!

Deborah Shaw "Walks Her Talk"
Dream Big! is an inspirational account of a woman's journey fromhumble beginnings to the heights of personal and professional success. On behalf of all the members of The Women's Alliance across the country we thank Ms. Shaw for her courage and her commitment to "pay her success forward" and use her knowledge to help other women to Dream Big! If you've never heard Ms. Shaw speak before then I highly recommend that you do. I had the pleasure of hearing her keynote presentation at the Una Voz National Women's Conference on March 30th in Miami where she presented a dynamic and heartfelt account of her trail to the top. ... Read more

Book Description

In The Science Glass Ceiling, Sue Rosser chronicles the plight of women faculty across the country.Noting difficulties, double standards, and backlash that they routinely face.Rosser interviewed some of the country's best female scientists about their research, love of science, and routing barriers faced.She offers suggestions and solutions for changing the science and technology culture at universities in order to establish a more level playing field.As the first woman Dean at a science/technical school, Rosser offers realistic solutions from an insider's perspective. ... Read more

Book Description

Find a niche for yourself, make the most of every situation, add value, and be ready for just about anything. These are the rules for women in the new workplace. While the glass ceiling may have cracked, women continue to face formidable challenges in shaping work and personal lives that truly work for them. With scores of interviews and a thorough review of the best practices of successful working women and leading organizations, SUCCESSFUL WOMAN'S GUIDE TO WORKING SMART brings to life the strategies and tools women need to overcome the obstacles and capitalize on the opportunities of today's world of work.

For more than 10 years, author Caitlin Williams has researched the factors that help women succeed at work. Now she brings fresh thinking to the new ways women can demonstrate their skills, contribute their talent, and take their place at the table where the work gets shaped, strategies get created, and decisions get made. From confidence and self-reliance to creativity and leadership, Williams takes readers on a chapter-by-chapter journey through the 10 strengths most critical to women's success in today's shifting workplace. Along the way, she shares stories and exmaples, and offers exercises, tools, techniques, and tips to help women at any level of an organization design a professional development plan for success. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A Practical & Easy to Read Guide
For all women who have any doubts on how to succeed in the workplace and find satisfaction and feelings of accomplishment in their career and jobs. Full of wonderful practical strategies and exercises in easy to follow and read formats.
Also for any woman who needs to rethink and/or recommit to a chosen career pathway.

There Really Are Ways to Work Smart
The Successful Woman's Guide to Working Smart demonstrates over and over the types of challenges and opportunities a working woman or, for that matter man, meets in ordinary business life. Caitlin Williams uses examples from real people that acknowledge time pressures and conflicting priorities. Her questions for reflection are simple, yet profound, and can bring to light personal obstacles that are holding us back.

This book is deceptively easy to read and can be read in small bites. Yet, each page has some nugget of wisdom that can be put to use. Ms. Williams takes into consideration that many women were not raised to advocate for themselves. She teaches us how to overcome shyness about promoting ourselves and gives practical suggestions for taking actions that aren't aggressive, but help us feel more participative in our workplaces.

Some of the strengths Ms. Williams writes about are already developed in many women. In this book, we can learn how to build on those strengths even more and feel and act more confident in the future. Probably the quality I like best about this book is it's premise that women are good professional people that don't need to be 'fixed.' I especially recommend this book for women beginning their worklife, whether young or after another life stage. It can give you a good jump start.

Definitely Worth Sharing
Caitlin Williams provides inspiration and practical tips for succeeding in an evolving work world. Equipped with real-life stories, the "Successful Woman's Guide to Working Smart," sheds light upon the challenges that women face on a daily basis in the workplace. The personal assessments create a workshop feel, while helping you to recognize your strengths and identify areas that need work. This book is essential in today's world where women are constantly striving to achieve a sense of balance without making sacrifices within their careers.

Invaluable reading for any woman
In Successful Woman's Guide To Working Smart: 10 Strengths That Matter Most, Caitlin Williams draws upon contemporary research, keen insights into current workplace realities, as well as the professional and personal spheres of the modern woman's life to establish that while women already have what is necessary to succeed in today's business climate, their are challenges and opportunities that demand new skills and a new mindset. Williams presents four principle themes: Inner Resilience (core strengths enabling a woman to perceive herself as confident, self-reliant, and capable of shaping her life in t