In this episode of Top of the Pile, host Karen Elders sits down with Jim Citrin, one of the nation’s foremost experts on leadership and career success. As leader of Spencer Stuart’s CEO practice, Jim has advised boards and CEOs on more than 850 top leadership searches over the past 25 years. He brings a wealth of experience as a former McKinsey consultant, Goldman Sachs associate, and bestselling author of eight books, including The Career Playbook, which offers invaluable guidance for young professionals navigating the early stages of their careers.

Together, Karen and Jim explore the realities of today’s competitive job market, where internship and entry-level acceptance rates at top firms rival Ivy League admissions. Jim shares strategies for standing out among hundreds of applicants, emphasizing the importance of clarity, persistence, and developing what he calls the “career triangle” of job satisfaction, compensation, and lifestyle. The conversation highlights how young professionals can proactively balance these factors throughout their careers.

They also dive into practical advice on relationship-building, networking (or as Jim prefers to call it, “authentic connection”), and mastering the art of interviewing. From creating strong first impressions to asking thoughtful, well-researched questions, Jim breaks down the habits that set top candidates apart. Throughout the discussion, both Karen and Jim stress the value of curiosity, resilience, and self-awareness—qualities that help young professionals build momentum early in their careers.

This episode is filled with timeless advice, practical strategies, and inspiration for anyone looking to launch their career and stay at the "Top of the Pile".

Here are a few links to key items mentioned:

The Career Playbook by Jim Citrin

Interviewing to live, living to interview, article by Jim Citrin

Girl Effect, a non-profit, aims to unlock the power of girls and end poverty globally

LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services. Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session.
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