THE FEMALE SHIFT JOURNAL

A career and leadership journal for women in corporate careers who want clarity, visibility, energy and sustainable success.

Welcome to The Female Shift Journal! An editorial space for women in corporate careers who want more than external success.

Here, I write about career fit, visibility, leadership, strengths, energy and the systems that still shape women’s careers. The articles combine personal essays, thought leadership and practical coaching reflections for women who want to move from performing to leading in a way that feels clear, sustainable and true to who they are.

This is not about becoming louder, harder or more optimised.
It is about understanding your value, shaping your next career chapter and creating success that holds up over time and still feels good.

For women asking: What still fits me and what no longer does? Articles about career clarity, midlife shifts, leadership transitions, optionality and the next professional chapter.

For women asking: How do I become seen, heard and taken seriously? Articles about value communication, sponsorship, leadership presence, difficult conversations and visibility without performance theatre.

For women asking: How do I stay ambitious without losing myself?
Articles about energy, boundaries, overdelivery, availability, care work and success that holds up over time.

For women asking: What is my real value and how do I build from it? Articles about strengths, CliftonStrengths, skills, AI, future careers, value creation and career capital.

What you will find here

Personal Essays:
Stories and reflections from corporate life, leadership, motherhood, reinvention and the shift from old success logic to a more fitting career design.

Thought Leadership
Articles on the bigger systems shaping women’s careers — from sponsorship gaps and glass cliffs to invisible work, care bias and outdated leadership models.

Practical Coaching Reflections
Tools, questions and perspectives to help you apply the ideas to your own career, leadership and life.

Ready to explore your own shift?

If one of these articles speaks directly to where you are right now, a discovery call can help you understand what is really going on and what your next professional step could look like.

Read the blog articles below in chronological order.
If you want to focus on one area click on the buttons above.

Craft Your Dream Career: A Comprehensive Guide to Job Crafting for Women in Corporate
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Craft Your Dream Career: A Comprehensive Guide to Job Crafting for Women in Corporate

Does your corporate job leave you feeling uninspired or stuck? Are you looking for a way to reignite your passion for work without leaping into a completely new role?
Learn how to reshape your current role with job crafting. This guide provides practical strategies for aligning your career with your strengths, passions, and values.

Read More
Journaling for Career Success and Clarity: Your Path to Transformation
Career Fit & Transitions, Sustainable Success & Energy Katharina Engelhardt Career Fit & Transitions, Sustainable Success & Energy Katharina Engelhardt

Journaling for Career Success and Clarity: Your Path to Transformation

Unlock the power of journaling to find clarity and overcome career challenges. Join a seasoned career and leadership coach on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Start your journaling practice today and pave the way for a successful career transition.s, salary, promotions, feedback sessions, or essential concepts.

Read More
Be the Change You Want to See: Embracing the Power of Self-Transformation
Sustainable Success & Energy, Career Fit & Transitions Katharina Engelhardt Sustainable Success & Energy, Career Fit & Transitions Katharina Engelhardt

Be the Change You Want to See: Embracing the Power of Self-Transformation

Change is a constant in the corporate world. Technological advancements, organizational restructuring, shifts in market dynamics – these are just a few examples of the changes businesses face regularly. As professionals, you're not only expected to adapt but also to lead your teams through these transformations. Managing change effectively in an organizational setting requires a unique set of skills. You must become a change catalyst, someone who can inspire and guide others through the process. In this article, we'll delve into t”

Read More
Navigating Change in the Corporate Arena
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Navigating Change in the Corporate Arena

Change is a constant in the corporate world. Technological advancements, organizational restructuring, shifts in market dynamics – these are just a few examples of the changes businesses face regularly. As professionals, you're not only expected to adapt but also to lead your teams through these transformations. Managing change effectively in an organizational setting requires a unique set of skills. You must become a change catalyst, someone who can inspire and guide others through the process. In this article, we'll delve into the essential aspects of navigating change in the corporate arena.

Read More
Never the Right Age
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Never the Right Age

Never the Right Age: How to Thrive as a Leader at Every Stage explores the age-related biases women face in their leadership journey—whether labeled as "too young," "too mother," or "too old." This insightful article provides strategies for turning these labels into strengths, empowering women to lead with confidence at any age. Discover how your age can be your greatest asset in creating a fulfilling and impactful career.

Read More
7 Transformative Principles to Elevate Your Professional Reputation
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

7 Transformative Principles to Elevate Your Professional Reputation

Discover key strategies to cultivate an impeccable professional reputation.

Learn how to balance respect and likability, solidify your personal brand, attract opportunities, build a supportive network, advocate confidently, and more for career success. Discover transformative principles to amplify your career potential and become a respected authority in your domain.

Read More
Stand Your Ground: Embrace the Power of Saying "No"
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Stand Your Ground: Embrace the Power of Saying "No"

Learn how to set boundaries and reduce stress by confidently saying "no." Discover effective strategies for self-assertion and why it's crucial for both personal and professional growth.

Let's face it; sometimes, saying a straightforward "No" can feel too harsh or confrontational, especially if you're dealing with someone sensitive or close to you. In such cases, a gentler approach can be just as effective. Instead of outright saying "No," you can say, "I don't want that."

This simple phrase allows you to assert your boundaries without coming across as aggressive. It expresses your lack of interest or willingness without putting the other person on the defensive. By repeating this phrase firmly and calmly, you reinforce your position, making it clear that your decision is final.

Practice using this technique in different situations and observe how it helps you maintain your boundaries while preserving relationships and reducing potential conflicts.

Read More
Unleashing the Coco Chanel Effect: Career and Leadership Lessons
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Unleashing the Coco Chanel Effect: Career and Leadership Lessons

Discover the timeless wisdom of Coco Chanel and how her principles can elevate your career and leadership skills!
As we bid adieu to this chic journey inspired by Coco Chanel, let's remember that her wisdom is not just confined to fashion; it extends to our careers and leadership journeys. Embrace your uniqueness, exude confidence, and lead with timeless elegance to make your mark in the world.

So, whether you're designing your career or leading a team, channel your inner Coco and let her principles be your guiding light to success. Unleash the Coco Chanel Effect, and elevate your career and leadership journey to new heights. Embrace your individuality and lead with grace to create a lasting impact on your professional journey.

Read More
Not so serious on day of lefthanders! Left-Handed Legends: Unraveling the Career Connection!
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Not so serious on day of lefthanders! Left-Handed Legends: Unraveling the Career Connection!

Discover the intriguing link between left-handedness and career success! 🚀 As a career and leadership coach with 25 years of professional experience, I'll unravel the secrets behind how being left-handed can influence your professional journey. In a world where individuality is celebrated, being left-handed is a badge of honor that sets you apart. 🏅 Embrace your left-handed legend and recognize the unique qualities that can propel your career to new heights.

Read More
Embrace Your Career: Say Goodbye to "It's Okay" and Pursue Your Dream Job!

Embrace Your Career: Say Goodbye to "It's Okay" and Pursue Your Dream Job!

Feeling stuck in a job that's just "okay"? Learn how to break free from the monotony and find your dream job that brings joy and fulfillment. Your age is not a limitation; it's never too late to make a change. Take charge of your career journey now! 🚀

Read More
The Book Lover's Day: Unlocking Your Career Superpowers!
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

The Book Lover's Day: Unlocking Your Career Superpowers!

Discover the hidden secrets of the Book Lover's Day and how it can supercharge your career! 🚀 As a working mother and career and leadership coach with 25 years of professional experience, I'll show you how this day can be the key to unlocking your career potential.
#BookLoversDay #CareerSuperpowers #LeadershipJourney #CareerGrowth #ReadToLead

Read More
Speaking Up with Confidence: Empowering Women in Meetings
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Speaking Up with Confidence: Empowering Women in Meetings

Discover effective strategies to empower women to confidently voice their ideas and opinions in meetings, especially in mixed virtual and in-person settings. Join me, a 50-year-old working mother and career and leadership coach with 25 years of working experience, as we unlock the power of non-violent communication and create a space for women to be heard.

Read More
Career Like Champagne: How to Make It Extraordinary!
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Career Like Champagne: How to Make It Extraordinary!

Uncork the secrets to crafting an extraordinary career that sparkles like champagne! Learn from a seasoned career and leadership coach with 25 years of experience as she shares invaluable tips and tricks to make your career journey a bubbly success.

Read More
Navigating a Fulfilling Career After Parental Leave
Career Fit & Transitions, Visibility, Voice & Authority Katharina Engelhardt Career Fit & Transitions, Visibility, Voice & Authority Katharina Engelhardt

Navigating a Fulfilling Career After Parental Leave

Discover practical strategies to transition into a fulfilling career that aligns with your role as a parent after taking a break for parental leave. Explore how to leverage your skills, redefine your goals, and create a work-life balance that brings you joy and professional fulfillment.

Read More
Unleashing the Power of Midlife: Paving the Way for Career Success Beyond 40
Career Fit & Transitions, Visibility, Voice & Authority Katharina Engelhardt Career Fit & Transitions, Visibility, Voice & Authority Katharina Engelhardt

Unleashing the Power of Midlife: Paving the Way for Career Success Beyond 40

Discover how to break the stereotype that career success should be achieved only in your 30s and 40s. As a 50-year-old working mother and career coach, I'll share insights on finding the perfect balance between work and personal life, and how to thrive in your career well into your 50s and beyond. Get ready to redefine success on your terms!

Read More
Unleashing Success: The Power of Focusing on Strengths in Performance Evaluation
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Unleashing Success: The Power of Focusing on Strengths in Performance Evaluation

Discover the transformative impact of a strengths-based approach in performance evaluations. Learn how emphasizing strengths can boost engagement, productivity, and confidence. Join me, a 50-year-old working mother and career and leadership coach with 25 years of leadership experience, as we navigate the world of performance discussions and unlock your true potential.

Read More
Unleashing Your Potential: Conquer Your Limiting Beliefs and Embrace Personal and Professional Growth
Katharina Engelhardt Katharina Engelhardt

Unleashing Your Potential: Conquer Your Limiting Beliefs and Embrace Personal and Professional Growth

Break free from self-doubt and unlock your true potential. Overcome limiting beliefs, challenge your inner critic, and embark on a journey of personal and professional growth. Join me, a 50-year-old working mother and career and leadership coach with 25 years of professional experience, as we explore the path to becoming the best version of yourself.

Read More