“Why Women Pivot: Embracing Transitions Unique to Our Careers” by Trish Barber (2024) is a personal development book written by the current president of Women in Technology, DC, a non-profit association of which I am a member and volunteer. She is poised and professional, and very intimidating at first! I was fortunate that she interviewed me for a podcast episode called “The Long Road to TedX,” and in the preparation I learned about her book, and also that her son presented a TedX talk too. When I researched the details of her book , I realized that I needed to read it and blog about it, because there isn’t a household name/book that you can point to. I thought it could potentially really help other ambitious women out there – if they know about it. So I picked up my Kindle and dove in.
Overview: The 169 -page Ebook walks us through prominent research illustrated through Trish’s own journey rising the corporate ladder and beyond. Each chapter shares practical Pivot Lessons You can Use and personal antidotes. Barber takes us through her decision-making around moving cities for her executive jobs at AOL and starting her own business while raising children and transitioning life phases. She describes career learning phases as one ages – Learn (20s), Accomplish (30s), Nurture (40s), Reinvent (50+). The nine chapters dive into separate subjects to consider when you have the growing notion that its time for you to change, such as Identity, Entrepreneurialism, Mothering, Personal Branding, and networking. She also urges companies to understand the cultural and environmental impacts to women in leadership positions.
Key Message: Barber’s key message is women face many tradeoffs in their careers and to embrace who you are and where you are in your journey. Be patient and kind to yourself.
Supplemental Information:
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- Buy the book Why Women Pivot on Amazon
- Listen to a Podcast interview with Trish Barber Hello Moxie (2026)
- Visit Trish Barber’s Website 3Ways Digital Here
Where it Falls Short: I think that the tone was a bit dry. It is a business book, but if it’s not a clean “how-to”, my preference is for more color in the storytelling. If you are mid-level or senior level woman considering making a move, it’s a great option, but I also think that she could have niched down more to relate to women in technology roles or organizations. It felt a bit broad to try to reach all women in career pivots.
Overall Assessment & Why: I rate it a 8 out of 10 in terms of a personal development book. I don’t see many other books in this space that really focus on helping women in technology roles and company make big career decisions based on where they are in their life.