Although I try to hide it, I grew up in NJ, have lived in NYC for most of my life, and I think it’s probably impossible to avoid thinking about writing something in this city.

About 25 years ago, mostly articles and written interviews. Putting into writing the information I was using when I deal with clients and students helped me organize my thoughts better. Then having those articles published helped me reach a wider audience.

About 10 years ago, a good friend of mine started encouraging me to put all my ideas into a book. He'd come to me for job advice over the years and thought my approach was different, interesting, and helpful. He thought it would be great if other people could hear what I had to say about how to handle a job search. To be honest, I hesitated. There are a lot of books out there on the subject. Even though I disagreed with most of them, I wasn't sure I had enough material for a whole book. Then a few more clients and students started asking me when I was going to write a book. So I started and it took shape gradually.

I learned through many clients in the publishing business that it’s the best way to go these days--more autonomy on almost every level. Since I have a complicated work life, I was going to have to fit things in, on my terms. It did take some time to do it this way, but it was definitely worth it.

Funny. I don’t associate “joy” with writing. I do like conceiving an article, or the book, but it’s mostly painful. Since I’m not a writer by vocation, writing well doesn’t come easily. I’m more used to hundreds of quick, free-associating emails every week. But I've had enormous satisfaction completing the book and hearing from readers that they not only found it helpful but also enjoyed reading it.

I’m excited that my slant on career development is getting out there to a larger audience. And I really like it when I hear from someone that my advice helped them ace an interview or negotiate a better salary.

I’m thinking about compiling a series of cases that prove some of the main points I’ve made in my book. Readers often tell me it really helps them to read examples, success stories, and stories about what doesn't work and why.

John Updike and Philip Roth.

There’s a lot to do. That never stops. It won’t get done if I don’t get up.

I see clients and students in a university setting or in my private practice or in corporations. Also go to a great deal of theater, movies, concerts.

Recommendations from friends and reviews in The New York Times Book Review. I usually like to stock up when I take my summer vacation, so I gather recommendations throughout the year.