Her Story
About Karen
Karen Silins is a Career Coach and Resume Writer based in Kansas City, MO. She has been working full-time in this capacity for 26 and a half years, following earlier roles as an office manager and human resources professional. Her educational background includes degrees in vocal performance and vocal education, which she applies to her coaching and presentation work. Karen holds 17 professional certifications and is pursuing an 18th. She is a member of Career Directors International, the Human Capital Institute, the Thrive Entrepreneur Network, and the National Association of Sales Professionals. Her professional achievements include being quoted in the Wall Street Journal, serving as an expert on the MIT graduate department website, a past membership with the Forbes Coaches Council, and a feature in a local publication. Outside of her primary work, Karen serves as a choral conductor and arranger at her church and rescues dogs from abuse and neglect situations with her husband. She attributes her success to listening to her clients and values honesty and empathy in her interactions.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
Listening to my clients. They are a rich source of learning, and I'm not afraid to tell them that, and say just as much as I'm learning from you, I'm learning from you. Their experiences and what they go through really have created my success.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Get a career coach if still unsure. Before college, help young women and men not pick majors on a whim. Get two degrees if needed: one practical and one that might be their dream. Be practical so you can get a job while pursuing dreams.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
AI is a challenge but not taking away business. It creates challenges for clients especially on job applications, with ATS systems rejecting based on keywords, and people using AI to write generic resumes that HR spots. Almost half the jobs advertised don't happen for various reasons like pre-selected hires or AI training.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Be honest with people. Tell them what they need to hear, not just what they want. Be empathetic. Listen to them, feel for them, and communicate that you understand their struggles.
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