Book uses TV shows to offer career tips

Brimming with sitcom references and quotes from TV characters such as Betty Suarez and Michael Scott, "Find Your Inner Ugly Betty: 25 Career Lessons for Young Professionals Inspired by TV Shows" is not the classic, self-help career book.

Instead of offering a 12-step plan for conference room success, author Tanner Stransky uses popular media to offer practical advice for soon-to-be college graduates.

Stransky breaks down career planning into five main categories - from personal image to overtime - and spells out specific items for young professionals to consider. He reminds career-bound students to clean up their Facebook.com profiles and to network with professionals in the field by maintaining consistent contact even after graduation.

Stransky also advises young professionals to be willing to put in some overtime. Especially as a new hire, graduates can expect to log extra time to relieve co-workers with families and children, he said.

While Stransky's advice on topics such as networking were more specific than what college students might typically hear, many of his tips were pretty basic.

But groundbreaking might not have been Stransky's goal. His no-frills writing style lets readers focus on his advice instead of his vocabulary. That focus made it easy to read - practical for busy college students.

Although "Find Your Inner Ugly Betty" was directed toward college graduates, it is just as valuable for undergraduates preparing for interviews and internships. The book's biggest strength rested in its ability to make the reader think like a professional.

Any student seeking professional experience, either in an entry-level position or a summer internship, can benefit from having someone further up the career ladder share what does and doesn't work in the workplace.

The author's tips and stories from young professionals are helpful and entertaining. They give straightforward advice, but also show readers how to avoid common pitfalls.

Stransky made the point that careers demand more than the bare minimum required for a grade, and that young professionals need to go beyond expectations and boss' assignments to excel. This might seem obvious, but it is also easy to forget.

Despite slightly repetitive TV references, Stransky's book holds some practical advice that would be worth reviewing. It just might be the perfect book to read on the bus or waiting for class to start.