I’m Ilona (“rhymes with Fiona”) Vanderwoude and my passion is helping modern-day “Renaissance Personalities”—those who simply can’t pick one passion or professional “major”—create exciting lives and careers.

As a Career Designer, I guide my clients in crafting unusual life and career plans, help them fit a million passions into one lifetime, and provide the tactical support to actually make it happen.

The bottom line is that I show my clients how to branch out and live the life they didn’t think was possible for them.

As a résumé expert nationally published in 15+ books, with 10+ years in the careers industry, elite coaching and resume-writing credentials, additional coaching training by M. Lobenstine (author of “The Renaissance Soul”), and personal experience living the Renaissance life, I’m not your usual coaching professional!

Barbara Sher and Ilona

My latest insights and inspiration come from attending Barbara Sher’s “scanner retreat” in France (April, 2011). Yes, Barbara Sher from “Wishcraft” and “Refuse to Choose”! I came home from France with 2 major things – besides making friends for life with all the wonderful participants! (That’s the two of us in the picture to the right.)

One: I identified a deep “wish” which will become my new initiative, which has nothing to do with careers. (No worries; I’m never leaving CareerBranches!) Two: Tools to help you find the excitement and peace of mind knowing you’re on the right track, just the way Barbara helped me and my fellow scanners in France.

I can’t wait to help you be happy and excited about your life – and work!