Strategize to Win: The New Way to Start Out, Step Up, or Start Over in Your Career

Harris (Expect to Win), Morgan Stanley’s managing director, offers hope in this career manual both to people just starting out and to those seeking professional redirection or revitalization. She divides the book into three major sections, respectively entitled “Starting Out,” “Stepping Up,” and “Starting Over.” The first section provides solid guidance, including on choosing a career, identifying necessary skill sets, and examining company entry points, to beginners who want to be deliberate in their career choices. For mid-levels who want to move up, she emphasizes that responsibility for this task rests on the individual, providing practical help on communication strategies, bouncing back after a misstep, and building up “relationship currency.” Advice to those in the “Starting Over” phase covers knowing when it’s time to jump ship and recognizing what factors motivate one, whether it’s increased compensation, improved chances for advancement, or escaping current unfair treatment. She also provides an informative chapter on repositioning oneself, which many will find especially insightful. Most professionals should be able to find something of value, whether they’re just starting out, ready to move on, or somewhere in between. Agent: Barbara Lowenstein, Lowenstein Associates. (Dec.)