Guidance, Not Control: The Secret to Building a Career You Love

When I look back on my 25+ years leading teams, one belief has always guided me: people do their best work when they feel empowered.

As a manager, my job wasn’t to tell people how to do their jobs—it was to make sure they had the right information, the right tools, and the right support to do it their way. I showed up in conversations, asked questions, broke down barriers, and made sure they got the credit they deserved. Because when people feel trusted and backed, they not only succeed—they thrive.

Now, as I focus on helping young professionals through Empower Career Advisors, I see how this same principle applies to building your own career.

1. Ask for What You Need

You won’t always have all the answers—and that’s okay. Whether you’re unsure about expectations, a project, or even your next career move, don’t be afraid to ask. The strongest employees aren’t the ones who know everything; they’re the ones who know when to seek clarity.

2. Break Down Barriers

Sometimes the biggest obstacles aren’t your skills—they’re the systems or roadblocks around you. Learn to identify what’s getting in your way, and then ask: what’s within my control to fix, and where do I need support? Knowing this distinction is powerful. And don't forget to ask for what you need.

3. Be Self-Aware

Early in your career, it’s easy to just put your head down and work. But the real growth comes when you stop to reflect: What challenges me? Where do I shine? What do I need to get better at? Self-awareness is a superpower—it guides the next steps of your journey.

4. Celebrate Your Wins

Here’s something I always did as a leader: made sure the right people got credit for their work. You should do the same for yourself. It’s not bragging—it’s owning your contributions. Document your wins and share them. They tell the story of your growth.

Takeaway

Your career isn’t about proving yourself to everyone else—it’s about equipping yourself to do your best work and being brave enough to ask for support along the way.

At Empower Career Advisors, we believe in guidance, not control. Our role is to help you navigate challenges, find your voice, and set you up for long-term success. Just like I did for my teams, I want to do for you: empower you to grow into the professional you’re meant to be.

Because the truth is—when you’re empowered, success follows.