Red lipstick is my signature. I'd like to think I could've lived in two other decades: the 30s or the 70s. I love the the classic, femininity of the 1930's, and I also love the over the top glam of the 70s. I think I was Diana Ross in my past life! My ode to that classic glamour is a simple, yet bold red lipstick (MAC's Ruby Woo) and red nail polish (OPI's Big Apple Red).
I proudly wear my red lipstick to the office in hopes of conveying my creativity, strength, and sense of style to those I interact with.
It's a bold and powerful color, and in the right setting can exude confidence. But recently I wondered if I worked in a more corporate environment, would my red lipstick be perceived differently?
For decades working women have had to stick to a more traditional, corporate office style. My mother, Cathy Ann Ivey, is one of the top 1% black women executives at a Fortune 500 Company. During our recent mommy-daughter chats, she shared that back when she started in corporate America, office style was very corporate cookie cutter. "I started my career in financial services in the 1980's on Wall Street. We wore blue, gray or black skirt suits with hose, paisley bow ties and minimal make-up."
It would seem that in creative fields like journalism, social media and tech red lipstick would be a show of confidence. However, like my mom many of you work in highly corporate environments, but is the style tide changing even in corporate America? I asked women like you, from different industries and different walks of life, to share their take on red lipstick in a work environment.
Here's what they had to say:
"Red lipstick works in my office culture. It forces people to take the words coming out of my mouth seriously. More importantly, I'm more confident in the attention that I command wearing red lipstick. Plus, I'm the fashion girl. It's expected for me to have add 'wow factor' to my look."
-Channing Hargrove, Marketing & Communications Coordinator (+blogger on the side), wearing YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lip Color in Le Orange
"I wear red to the office. I do think it appropriate depending on your profession. Being from the south, I remember a lot of my friends not being able to wear red lips or red polish because it was considered too "grown" of a color. But I don't think red lipstick changes one's perception of me, especially if they are familiar with my work ethic."
-Melissa Chanel, Social Media Manager from Charlotte, NC wearing RiRi Woo
"I personally do not believe that it changes people's perception of me, but what it does is distracts them from their intent of approaching me.I do not believe that wearing red lipstick has a lasting effect on long term office relationships or ones career. I just think that you have to use justification to know when or when it is not appropriate."
-Tia Boyd, Market Risk Analyst for Wells Fargo Bank in Charlotte, NC
"I believe red lipstick is absolutely appropriate if you want to give the perception of bold, beautiful and about your business. Red always speaks louder than any other color to me. It's classic and versatile, and I can't think of a situation where red lipstick would ever be inappropriate for a lady."
- Maya Elious, Personal Branding Strategist from Atlanta, GA wearing NYX Perfect Red Matte Lipstick
"I love to wear red lipstick in the office. It brings about a sense of confidence and control for me. The people in my office seem to respect me just a tad bit more as well. I suggest that every woman owns a shade of red lipstick. It's so classic for the office and demanding."
-Jasmine Cooper, Marketing Intern from Kansas City wearing MAC Ruby Woo
My take?
Know your work environment and pay attention to what shades of lipstick other women in your office are wearing. I usually follow my boss' lead. If she wears bold lip colors, then I know it's something that works in our office. I wear red lipstick everyday; it's my version of a neutral!
No matter what lip color you wear, wear it with confidence. And while your red lip may scream confident to your coworkers, always make sure your work ethic and creativity shine through just as boldly.
What are your thoughts? Would you wear red lipstick to work or do you think it's very inappropriate in the office?
My fellow introverts, I know your struggle!
An office environment can be challenging for those of us who work better in solitude. I try to avoid sparking up a conversation at the coffee maker at all costs. Then it seems like when I do strike up a casual conversation, it's totally awkward (networking for awkward girls coming soon lol). Let's just say I'm known to blurt out a Joan Clayton quote or a Hangover II reference from time to time.
However, being new in my office has challenged me to learn how to be smart about networking and get comfortable with casually communicating with other great people in the office. Not only have I learned to speak to others, I've learned to communicate my strengths, my goals and even my value with those I work closely with. Now, I'd like to share my strategies with you.
So introverts, here's your guide to easy, effective, and non-awkward networking in the office.
Be Strategic With Your Approach.
It can be overwhelming to think about all the people in your office you should be meeting. However, getting strategic about who you meet can scale down the amount of people you actually NEED to meet and help you communicate effectively. Find out who's who. Network with people who could be of help to you. I work in accessories so I make sure to introduce myself to the fashion and beauty interns because they work closely with the same brands that I do. Who's to say they won't be employed at one of those places after their internship? Also make sure you communicate to them what you do, your interests and maybe even a little previous experience. They know what you do, you know what they do. If ever they need someone with your skills, they know where to find you. See, you don't have to try and meet everyone, just the one's who can help you get closer to your end goal.
Set a Daily Networking Goal.
Each day I set a small office-networking goal for myself. This goal usually coincides with whatever my long term goals are. I ultimately would like to get into more editorial work. So, my daily goal maybe something like: introduce yourself to two people on the editorial staff by end of day. Simple, doable and will get me noticed by people who could get me to where I'd like to be. Purposefully interact with people in the office. See, networking isn't so scary after all!
Don't Be Afraid To Ask Questions!
This may sound way too simple but it's super effective. Introverts don't always feel comfortable leading the conversation. A great way to start a conversation is to ask a question. This shows the person you are speaking with that you are interested in wanting to know about them and also leaves you without having to do too much talking. However, make sure you are asking the RIGHT questions. I go into office interactions to initially identify if a person and I can be mutually beneficial to one another. The way to do this is to ask questions. “How long have you been here?" “What did you do previously?" You can even ask what kind of things they like doing outside of work. Before too long, you'll arrive at something you two have in common and BOOM you've networked effectively. Look at you, getting out of your shell and thangs!
Lastly, don't underestimate the power of a hello in passing, a smile in the elevator and a simple, “How's your day going?" People take notice of kindness and sometimes these small gestures can spark up conversations that lead to opportunities.
Featured image by Getty Images
So make a cup of tea, grab your favorite blanket, curl up in bed, read this post, and get ready to decompress and reenergize yourself. Monday, here you come!
1. Make a list of things you are excited about.
I discovered this ritual in a Forbes article about stress associated with work and decided to try it out. On Sunday night, I make a list of all the things I’m looking forward to during the week ahead. Whether it’s drinks with a girlfriend or hearing back about a new opportunity, I write it down. I whip my list out on Monday before work just to remind me what I have to look forward to throughout the week. It may seem silly but it’s really effective. During the day, we are consumed with work-related tasks. It’s good to have a friendly reminder that you DO have a life outside of work and that Monday won’t last forever. The list has made a HUGE difference in my outlook on Mondays. I no longer dread Monday morning because I remember that it’s just a challenge to be met and the reward for a hard days work is written down on my list.
2. Complete one Monday task.
Tackle one of your Monday tasks a day early. By clearing your desk of one thing you’ll feel less anxious about the amount of work waiting for you on Monday morning. I like to check my email on Sunday to see if there are any tasks I can knock out ahead of time. Also, try checking your email and making a list of tasks that are priority for Monday. Just getting organized a day early will help you have a better handle on your work week. The list will help you identify where most of your attention should be allocated on Monday, so you don’t succumb to the pressure of a ton of emails.
3. Journal + Read.
Unwind. I’ve found that journaling is SOOOO decompressing. On Sunday night, your head may be buzzing with ideas, solutions and even worry. You are already trying to gear up for Monday, and your thoughts can become scattered. Unplug from your laptop and your phone. Spend sometime with yourself. Journaling allows you to expel all of those ideas, thoughts and worries swimming around in your head. Writing it down and expressing it can be so relieving. Read over what you wrote, many times you’ll find that what is worrying you isn’t even a big deal. Also, reading over your thoughts could kick up a solution to some of the things your anxious about.
My favorite reads!
Also Read. Curl up in bed with some snacks and some music and read a good book. I always like to think a lesson can be found anywhere. A professor once told me: “All the answers are hidden in a book.” We just have to read to find them. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, find something that you enjoy reading -- magazines included!
You're all ready for Monday morning! Just wake, pray, and SLAY!
What strategies do you have for tackling #MondayBlues? Share in the comment section below or tweet us @xoNecole
Bright colors, unique accessories, and picture frames to give my space character are what I live for.
I know there are some women who are fine with having no screensaver on their work computer and accept that weird “greige” colored stapler on their desk but not me. I have to curate and decorate my workspace in order to feel inspired to do my best work. I enjoy hanging up frames of my favorite quotes and finding cute little bobbles for my desk.
When you are excited about the space you work in, it will help you get excited about the work you are doing. Over the past year, I’ve discovered so many cute little things to help liven up a work space, and take my desk from drab to fab!
Here are 5 poppin' desk accessories to upgrade your work space:
1. Customizable Pencils
Image: Etsy.com
These are simple and affordable way to liven up your space. You may not even use them, but being able to look over and see your favorite quote in a vibrant color will help give you a little pep, and it's always a great conversation starter in the office. I’ve ordered them engraved with my favorite Joan Clayton and Carrie Bradshaw quotes. Get them on Etsy for just $15. You can choose from Lavender, Pink, Black, gold and white…Maybe a black pencil with gold lettering for a chic polished office look!
2. Jonathan Adler Smart Phone Dock
It’s on the pricier side, but I think this cute Johnathan Adler phone dock is so worth the 60 bucks. It allows you to prop up your phone for charging or for usage and adds some vintage flair to your space. It’s a little indulgent, but having a designer desk accessory is très chic!
3. Kosta Boda Lipstick Paperweight
I’m a red lipstick kinda gal so this is one of my favorites! If you’re like me and you love a good ol' red lip, why not add this statement piece to your desk? It’s fun and functionally. It’ll keep your papers from fluttering around while also bringing out your inner Sachsa Fierce! It’s currently sold out but get on the waitlist at ShopBop.com!
4. Scotch® Magic Tape Dispenser
Scotch Tape has a new line of quirky tape dispensers and I'm obsessed. My favorites are the Cosmo cocktail and the high heel. Add a little personality to your desk with these fun tape dispensers. The high heel comes in a range of colors and patterns if your taste in shoes is a racier than the standard black pump. Get the heel for jsut $10.50 and the cosmo for $13.50 at Staples!
5. Kate Spade Notepads
Get these large Kate Spade notepads to add a little class to your desktop. Priortize your to-do’s in style. I have a set at my home desk and I feel a little luxurious every time I make a list on them. Get these for a measly $8 and $10 each on KateSpade.com.
What poppin' desk accessories have you found for your WERK space? Check out a few from our readers below!
It's okay to not be completely happy with where your at in life or at work. Millennial women have so much pressure pressed upon them to succeed and to do it early on in life. Like, so what you haven't created and sold an app that has made you a 23-year-old millionaire. It's your responsibility to design a life of fulfillment and happiness (and xoNecole's job to help you along the way), so if you think your job sucks you have choices.
Here's what to do:
1.Self assess.There are days when I loathe my job but I stop to ask myself, “Is this just a bad day or is working in publishing really not for you?” Is it the organization, leadership, or is that kind of job simply not what you want to do? Make a list of pros and cons of your current job and decide what things on that list you'll look for in your next job. Doing this will not only help you clarify what exactly you dislike about your current position, but it will also help you identify what you need from your current or next job in order to feel satisfied.
2. Have a chat with your boss.My mom taught me this one. She is an executive level woman at a Fortune 500 company and she says keeping the line of communication open with your boss will always work in your favor. She says that when she’s clear on what does or does not work for her team, she can delegate tasks to them accordingly. If you're not happy with the tasks, projects or position you have then you should communicate that. Your boss may be able to shift some things around so that you are satisfied with your workload, schedule or pay.
3. Reach out to those who already do what you want to do.I go on LinkedIn and look for people who do what I’d like to do. I read their job descriptions to identify the kind of skills that are valuable in that industry. I also reach out to them and ask for feedback on my résumé or for advice. Twitter is a great place to network. I’ve introduced myself casually to those in my industry on Twitter and some of them are now my mentors. Find people who have your dream job or work at a company you really love. Find out what steps they took to get there, if the company is hiring, and see if they can connect you to your desired department.
4. Pack a parachute. I have multiple streams of income. Yes, I intern at a major publication but I also freelance write, have my own blog, and oversee my own organization. Do like your mom said and “don’t put all your eggs in one basket, girl!” Have other avenues of gaining experience and working in your industry. Before you jump ship, make sure you've prepared for the leap. Set a specific date that you want to have found new employment elsewhere. Save up money for the transition and start applying to new positions.
Does your job suck? How are you coping or planning to moving on?
Share your experience!
During my recent hunt for full-time employment, I’ve discovered numerous ob search apps that put thousands of job listings right at your fingertips…literally! But there were a set of apps that stood out of the crowd in the app store because they functioned like the popular app Tinder. If you aren’t familiar with Tinder, it’s a dating app that allows you to browse through photos of people in your area that you may be interested in, and you either swipe left if you are uninterested, or swipe right if you are interested in viewing the person's profile. If there is mutual interest, then you are able to chat with the person through the apps messaging feature.
And yup, you read that right! There’s also a “Tinder” for your job search. These apps allow you to create a profile and specify what kind of listings you’re looking for, then you are presented with listings. You swipe right to apply, and swipe left to keep searching! A far cry from the grueling process of manually filling out application after application.
So get ready to swipe right! Here are two job search apps that function just like Tinder.
Jobr
Why You’ll Love It
Jobr features more than 500,000 job applications every month, and the app guarantees if you spend just five minutes on the app you’ll hear back from an employer in 24 hours. Also, the app is great on the go. It only take “10 seconds to create your profile” according to Jobr.
Why I Love It
I love that Jobr allows me to import my resume to the app via Dropbox so employers can view my resume along with my profile. Jobr also allows you link your LinkedIn profile to your Jobr profile, so all your receipts are on display.
Switch
Why You’ll Love It
TechCrunch reports that “Switch goes beyond waiting for employers to sign up for the service, pulling in job listings from across the Internet’s many job boards for users to swipe on.” Switch not only lists applications from employers they work with, but they list job applications from other job sites and employers that fit your career path. It cast a wide net so your chances of finding your perfect career match are greater.
Why I Love It
I love Switch because it matches you with an actual person, not just an automated message. The app alerts you when you and a Human Resource rep are matched for a position, and you can begin messaging that person instantly. I love that I can directly speak to the HR rep and set up an interview or exchange contact information right there in the app. Talk about convenience!
Have you found any great apps for hunting down your next gig? Let us know in the comments!
