Labels R Us

 First let me premise this post by apologizing for my absence last week.  Fall semester has started and I was wrapped up in getting prepared for my classes.  Now that we have addressed that issue, we can move on to today’s topic: Labels.

Class is in session: Career Planning 101

For many of you the first day of classes is fast approaching.  With the start of the new school year comes a new opportunity for self-improvement. Maybe you’ll go to the gym more frequently or make better grades.  Whatever you decide to focus on this semester, make career planning a priority as well. It’s never too early to start.

Head to Toe Series: Sparkle and Shine

In the previous articles of the Head to Toe Series you learned the basics of professional attire.   In this final installment, you learn how to add a bit of sparkle and shine to your career wear.  Adding interest to is easy to do through the use of accessories and colors.  Bear in mind that what is acceptable in a profession depends on how conservative it is, i.e. lawyers: very conservative, graphic designers: liberal.

Head to Toe Series: Call Me Business Casual

During my first year of college I had a huge presentation for my Business Communication class. The syllabus stated to dress in business attire for the presentation so I wore loose trousers and a button-down shirt.  My presentation went smoothly and class feedback followed.  I received mostly positive comments until my professor said “In the syllabus it said to dress professionally.” Confusion set in as I thought “I did follow the instructions.”  What I failed to realize at that time was there are two categories of business attire: business formal (for interviews and fancy dinner meetings) and business casual (for most work days and Casual Fridays).

Head to Toe Series: Interview Ready

As a woman, dressing professionally isn't always an easy task.  Because you have many more options for career attire than men you also have many more chances to stand out, both positively and negatively.  It's said that employers believe a prospective employee will dress her best for her job interview or a huge presentation.  Therefore, looking less than impeccable is unacceptable on these occasions. Follow these style guidelines to ensure you are dressed for success:

The Reason Your Appearance Matters 100%

How many times has someone told you to “Look the part” or “Dress for the job you want?” Chances are your answer is countless times.  These common sayings reveal our cultural obsession with appearances.  Regardless of whether or not you agree with the importance given to appearances in U.S. culture, the working world judges you based on how you look.  These assessments also can have a financial impact. However, YOU control what tyour look says.

The Power of a Mentor

When we are born we know nothing and depend on others to teach us the ways of survival.  Just as we needed someone there years ago offering advice how to brush our teeth, comb our hair, and dare I say, use the potty we still need someone to show us the ways of the world. We still need people willing to mentor us.