Landing the job is only the beginning — so why does it feel like the finish line? In this episode, host Karen Elders sits down with Dr. Deepak Bhootra, a Sandler and ICF-certified coach, bestselling author, and founder of Rise Up Career Studio and RISEUP@Work to unpack what it really takes to grow once you're in the door.

Deepak shares his signature framework — Performance, Visibility, Value, and Positioning — as a practical roadmap for turning a job into a career. He explains why the first three to five years matter so much, how "low-level advice" from well-meaning friends can lead you to quit for the wrong reasons, and why chasing a promotion without earning trust rarely works.

The conversation also dives into personal branding (and the gap between how you see yourself and how others do), why AI-generated resumes can backfire in AI-powered interviews, and how small, consistent habits compound into real career momentum. Deepak gets candid about his own career setbacks, the emotional toll of corporate life, and why community — not just content — is at the heart of Rise Up.

If you're a young professional wondering how to move from "just doing your job" to building real momentum, this episode is packed with tactical, human advice you can start using today.

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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