By Pam Lutrell –

We live in a new world. Job security does not mean what it used to and retirement for many is no longer an option. Today, it is more important than ever in this highly competitive world we believe we can be successful and act on it. This is why Ellen Lubin-Sherman’s new book, The Essentials of Fabulous: Because “Whatever” Doesn’t Work Here Anymore, is so important, really, for all ages. This is about principles which can be implemented now to develop a cutting edge in the professional world…to be visible, marketable, and, YES, fabulous!

Before you balk at the word, fabulous, it does not necessarily mean you should look every day like you walked out of the pages of VOGUE; however, appearance is one important component. Lubin- Sherman is a teacher of professional excellence. She learned that “fabulous wasn’t something you were born into; no, it was something you became, by keen observation, diligent application, and practice.”

She formerly fed news items to the famous columnist Liz Smith of the New York Daily News. However, now she is feeding hungry Americans ready for advice for ways to manipulate a new workforce in our country. As empty nesters, the Baby Boomer generation is forced to find new ways to be relevant, and Lubin-Sherman says, “The minute the children are off to college, all women should take stock and say, ‘what is my next mountain to climb?’”

“For many, it’s the moment we have been waiting for. We are no longer tethered to dinner, car pools, and dental appointments; and, can create a life that is exciting, focused, and gratifying,” she said. “To get started, you must look at yourself with an unsparingly honest point-of-view. Do you look your best? Do you dress with style? Is your grooming immaculate including a great haircut? Are you putting energy into yourself now that your chickens have flown the coop?”

She said, “If you are going to return to work, you need to understand and then overcome the obstacles in front of you. You must make your skills transferable to the workplace. Did you raise money for charity? Did you organize a charitable event? Have you been a PTO president and mobilized people to join and participate? All of these talents and skills are useful in any workplace, but you need to create a narrative that makes your hiatus valuable.”

She recommends brushing up on the computer, learning social media, or even taking courses that bring re-entry up-to-date. “Speaking of communication and widening your social bandwidth,” she said. “Do you smile at everyone you meet or only people you know? Do you initiate the hello? Do you look accessible or does your manner convey indifference? Now, that you are selling, you must captivate the buyer.”

Her book is for those ready to get started… ready for the next level… ready to return to a workforce not as friendly as when they left. In order to purchase one, just go to her website, www.essentialsoffabulous.com.

*Ellen Lubin-Sherman cultivated and branded identities for some of the country’s most luxurious products. She worked for top communications firms, advertising top-tier brands including The Gap, Perrier Water,  and Martha Stewart. For more than 30 years, she has flexed her “fabulous” muscles guiding leaders and luxury brands to infuse their identities with flair. In 2003, she founded LAUNCH, an executive coaching firm for business leaders who wish to break out of the pack and lead with charisma.

During the 1980s, Pam Lutrell left a thriving public relations career to be a wife and mother. At the age of 47, she began to teach high school journalism and prepare for life at middle age. After a huge wakeup call on her fiftieth birthday, Pam made some significant changes in her life and today has added several awards as a teacher, freelance writer, lifestyle blogger, and public speaker to her resume. She is having the time of her life with her developing fashion & style blog for middle aged women….women of strength, dignity, and joy! Find her also at http://over50feeling40.blogspot.com: over50Feeling40@gmail.com  Twitter: Over 50Feeling 40;  Face Book: Over50feeling40; and bloggers for www.mysa.com, The San Antonio Express News.