Hi!
I’m Jess Wass!
I currently work as a Career Coach, Consultant, Training Facilitator, and a Speaker. But I didn’t always do this type of work.
Let me tell you more about myself and my journey…
5 Careers in 15 Years…
I thought my career was going to be centered around a linear path working upwards at prestigious organizations. It started out that way as I worked first in Finance at Lehman Brothers, then Strategy Consulting at Bain & Company, then corporate strategy at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and then running Operations teams at various stage startups. But at times, many of these positions left me feeling limited, misunderstood, improperly managed, or just plain disrespected.
My Various Careers Over the Years
My understanding of my particular gifts crystalized during my time at Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Leading various corporate transformation efforts, I uncovered a gift for leading groups and individuals through periods of change. It took me a few years to recognize this pattern across many of my past roles. So starting with myself, I underwent a career shift and went back to school for my Masters in Social-Organizational Psychology with a focus in Change Leadership, essentially applying psychology principles to the workplace.
Now, I help organizations and individuals transform into the best versions of their work selves. Today, I’m committed to helping my clients break out of that rut and find a new understanding of the word “career.” While a career is just one piece of the happiness puzzle, it’s a crucial one. I became a career coach to help others avoid the pain of ill-fitting jobs and find their path to a fulfilled, balanced life.
Joy C., Director of Operations
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING…
“I feel like a different person! Overall, I feel so much more [equipped] to handle situations that come up at work (and in life)! I feel less chaotic and more in control of what options are available to me.”
My Unique Perspective
I’ve always had a penchant for helping people and true to form with my astrological sign (Libra), I offer a point-of-view that is balanced and fair. Furthermore, being from a multiracial, interfaith family, I learned to hold multiple perspectives at once–which means I see patterns others don’t and I give highly personalized, not prescriptive, feedback.
A large chunk of what I do is help people define success on their own terms. This means separating what people want from the external pressures and the “shoulds” that keep them in situations that don’t feel right.
While part of what I do is help people craft personalized definitions of career, I provide guidance by exploring “career” through the lens of what interests you, keeps you motivated to continually learn more about your field and profession, and provides the lifestyle you want (i.e. balance!). It’s about finding a path that allows you to continually embrace curiosity and use your diverse talents.
If that sounds like something you believe in too - but you don’t know how to get there, you’ve come to the right place!
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING…
“Jess was able to help me realize my value as well as my potential. Through thorough assessments, conversations and gentle nudging I feel more confident in the value I offer and how to actualize reaching my potential.”
— Teaira P., Human Resources Leader
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