Conversations with Ashley Powell

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Powell.

Hi Ashley, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Born and raised in the inner city of Detroit, MI, I never quite established what I wanted to be when I grew up. Just like every other person, my dream profession changed multiple times from a ballerina to an astronaut. I did not have a chance to learn more or meet anyone in my dream profession.

After receiving my high school diploma, I attended Grand Valley State University again, not having the slightest idea of what I wanted to study. Once I chose a field of study and graduated, it was difficult to find a stable position in my field. I filled various positions for stability as I did not have direct experience.

After working countless roles, I finally found a position as a Career Counselor that I truly enjoyed. Being employed as a Career Counselor/Coach for years at a number of educational institutions, I learned the gaps in career preparation for recent grads as well as the working class who are looking to advance.

Yearning to fill those gaps, I started my business, Connections Career Planning & Services (CCPS). CCPS is a professional firm that connects individuals to their ideal careers through professional development services such as resume writing, one-on-one mentoring/career coaching, job search strategies, professional workshops, and much more.

My clients range from college students to senior-level professionals. I aimed to provide services tailored to my clients to assist them in establishing and growing in their careers. In the West Michigan area, there has been a huge gap with qualified BIPOC population in leadership roles. Not wanting people to follow in my footsteps, I wanted to bridge the gap.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Building my business has definitely been a struggle, as I did not know where to start. I joined a local business program, SpringGR, to help me get started and build my brand. Once I completed the program, being able to build my clientele during a pandemic was another struggle.

From working when employers were shut down and setting myself apart from my competition, I had to get creative. To set myself apart, I became a certified Resume Writer as well as a certified Career Coach to become an expert and gain more knowledge. I also worked with family and close friends to sample my strategies and provide templates for my resumes.

For all new clients, I provided certain services at a discounted price to build clientele, as I know the best way to gain more clients is through referrals. With my established relationships with various employers in the area, I was able to reconnect and learn what they are looking for in candidates for their open positions.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Not only do I run my own professional firm as a resume writer and career coach, but I’m also a non-profit program manager, managing programs to help individuals with barriers secure and maintain employment.

I’m proud to be able to provide tools to the community to assist them in finding their passion and meeting their career goals. As a resume writer and career coach, I ensure that I meet all clients where they are and aid them in meeting and exceeding their career goals.

Are any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
UnFu*k Yourself by Gary John Bishop.

Pricing:

• $99.99 – Resume/Cover letter
• $50 per session – Career Coaching
• $69.99 – Update Resume
• $9.99 – Resume Revisions
• $100+ per hour – Webinars

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063642273481&mibextid=kFxxJD