Bookshelf | CareerFocus Café

By Richard S. Gallagher

Too often when we have a conflict or a complaint at work we either say nothing or say the wrong thing. This book offers us a constructive third alternative.

The author, Richard S. Gallagher, calls it the CANDID approach. This acronym provides us with a strategy (Compartmentalize, Ask questions, Normalize, Discuss, Incentivize, and Disengage) for opening difficult conversations without putting other people on the defensive.

Work’s a Bitch and Then You Make It Work

By Andrea Kay

With some tough talk followed by clear-headed, straight-forward advice, Andrea Kay will help you deal with whatever it is dragging you down at work. Her first bit of advice? Face facts, lower your expectations and quit believing that everything should be perfect. Kay begins by dealing out the 12 Naked Truths of the workplace and follows with pragmatic solutions for making the best of an imperfect and unfair world.

Blue Collar and Proud of It

By Joe Lamacchia

Two words: Skilled trades. If you’re looking for a solid alternative to a four-year college degree, if working with your hands is more satisfying than sitting at a desk, if you want good pay and plenty of job opportunities, this is the answer you’re looking for.

This book details the opportunities for blue collar workers, including the old standbys such as builders, electricians, mechanics and technicians but also includes new opportunities such as the emerging green-collar opportunities in farming and alternative energy.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Green Careers

By Barbara Parks and Jody Helmer

This pragmatic and practical book lists career opportunities in dozens of the most obviously green occupations from alternative energy to sustainable agriculture. But it goes a step further and offers up suggestions for traditional careers with a green twist. If you’re looking for a way to turn your talents toward a cleaner, more sustainable future, this is the book for you.

Alpha Books

Rebound

by Martha I. Finney

Rebound offers timely and pragmatic advice for anyone facing job loss. Author Martha Finney acknowledges that losing a job feels awful, but it also can lead to new – and better – opportunities for those who are willing to shake off their self-doubt, embrace a little insecurity and think hard about their next move.