Author Interview – Dr. Susan Doering – Smart Career Moves For Smart Women: How To Succeed In Career Transitions

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, Dr. Susan Doering talks about her new book, Smart Career Moves For Smart Women: How To Succeed In Career Transitions.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed Dr. Susan Doering about her life and career, and what inspired her to write her new book, Smart Career Moves For Smart Women: How To Succeed In Career Transitions.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

I’m a career and leadership coach, and I work largely, but not exclusively, with business and professional women who are looking to achieve their career aspirations. I also facilitate training on career development and run a coaching programme called SmartWoman. I live in Greenwich, in South London, on the banks of the river Thames.

When did you first WANT to write a book?

I wanted to write a book about the world of work a few years after I had received my coaching diploma and recognised patterns in the issues that my clients were presenting to me.

When did you take a step to start writing?

Some time after that, when I had been discussing these patterns with my coaching supervisor and thought it might be good to put this all down on paper.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

About 3 years, on and off.

What made you want to write Smart Career Moves For Smart Women?

My own experience changing career and then working with women as a career coach showed me that women need extra support and guidelines to navigate the world of work, especially when facing a career move of whatever kind. Having experienced the value of coaching with a focus on these transition points with my clients I wanted to spread the word and reach a wider audience. The women I coached who developed the self-confidence to make their way forward are my inspiration for the book.

What were your biggest challenges with writing Smart Career Moves For Smart Women?

Pushing through to getting it into shape.

What was your research process for Smart Career Moves For Smart Women?

The book is based on real-life coaching stories, so I had my notes on these. Naturally, everything is anonymised. And, of course, I have relied on and refer to several coaching books; relevant publications have been referenced as far as possible

How did you plan the structure of Smart Career Moves For Smart Women?

From my initial plan I worked with my development editor, Louise Goulsbra, from ContentBox; the breakthrough came when we began to think of the book as a journey. 

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Smart Career Moves For Smart Women need?

I had wonderful support from Louise. I couldn’t have done it without her insight and support.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?

Put aside dedicated time to write.

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

The book that is the drawer on the world of the workplace and its hidden pathways might see the light of day. I would also like to write a sequel to this book focusing on senior women.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

I am very pleased indeed that the book is being published by such a well-known publishing house. Definitely worth the effort.

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

Website: https://www.doering-training.com/

Social media links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-susan-doering-ma-oxon-pcc-41514527/; @DrSusanDoering

Book, pre-order/purchase links: https://www.routledge.com/Smart-Career-Moves-for-Smart-Women-How-to-Succeed-in-Career-Transitions/Doering/p/book/9781032404356;

https://amzn.to/3m7ecLW

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