Ismael Pérez

Columnist, audience specialist

Ismael Pérez is a columnist and audience specialist at the Chicago Sun-Times.

Someone in Chicago is a rom-com star with advice to share

Colin Egglesfield of “Something Borrowed” shares his thoughts on life and building confidence to put yourself out there.

By Ismael Pérez

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago wonders whether employers value experience

Abrupt firing of accomplished sales rep seems horribly unfair — but is it illegal?

By Ismael Pérez

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago wants you to remember proper walking etiquette

Breaking walking rules is bigger than a simple case of sidewalk rage. People need to be more aware of their surroundings and how their carelessness affects others.

By Ismael Pérez

A queen bee bossing around a worker bee.

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago is dealing with a micromanaging, mansplaining boss

If the patronizing is a common occurrence, it’s your turn to explain and teach him how to talk to you with more respect.

By Ismael Pérez

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago wonders how to mix friend groups at a party

When it comes to managing your time between friends to keep everybody happy, realize that’s unrealistic to accomplish on your own. Your friends need to be good sports, too.

By Ismael Pérez

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago is over bars and dating apps, looking for new ways to meet people

You don’t need bars. You just need good social atmospheres that fit your personality.

By Ismael Pérez

A ribbon with “second place” written into it.

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago is happy with second place

Being the best you can in a lower-profile, supporting role can still be fulfilling.

By Ismael Pérez

An illustration showing a driver and a passenger.

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago is reminded at Christmas of a meaningful Lyft ride

A simple hello can help people — whether you know them or not — through stressful, dark and frustrating times.

By Ismael Pérez

Rabbits sit across from each other as if they are on a date.

Someone in Chicago

Someone in Chicago checked out the speed-dating scene

If you feel a connection, drop a hint that you’re interested. Leave no room for doubt you’re open to seeing them again. But also be ready for the possibility it won’t be mutual.

By Ismael Pérez