by Solange Lopes | Feb 17, 2015 | Career
Ms. Stephanie Samuel
It’s our pleasure to feature Ms. Stephanie Samuel, journalist and reporter, in our Sister of Impact series. As a reporter with over nine years of experience on the field, Ms. Samuel has written for various publications, including the AFRO-American, The Prince George’s Sentinel and the Christian Post. Today, she speaks to us about her experience as a woman of color in her field, kindly offering us a glance into what it means to be a woman of color at work in her world.
Hi Stephanie, thank you for joining The Corporate Sister as a guest contributor. Can you start off by telling us a bit about yourself?
Stephanie Samuel: I am a reporter with over nine years of experience writing for various print and online publications. In that time I’ve been blessed enough to interview major newsmakers from 2008 presidential candidate Mike Huckabee to actor Laz Alonso. I’ve also learned that there are many hurdles facing professional women of color from being the only one in the room to being overlooked for advancement. It is my desire to encourage readers to defy the odds and push forward in their careers.
How has being a woman of color affected your career?
Stephanie Samuel: In many ways being a double minority (Black and female) gives me an advantage. I have a unique view of the world and I incorporate that viewpoint into every pitch, every interview and every article. However my biggest struggle has been exchanging notes, so to speak, about the industry with other women of color. Unfortunately some of us harbor a sense of competition and one-upmanship because we fear of being surpassed or replaced by an energetic newcomer. I believe that for all women of color to truly thrive in the professional arena, we must be willing to open the door for others.
What has helped you, and also what has hindered you in achieving your full potential at work?
Stephanie Samuel: The key for me has always been to challenge myself. When I started writing in college, I was terrified of interviewing strangers because I wasn’t confident about myself and ability. So for every story I challenged myself to approach people and get them to talk to me. Succeeding at that challenge gave me the confidence to take on another challenge and another challenge and another. Never stop pushing yourself.
You’ve accomplished so much in your career, and I’m sure you’re planning on accomplishing even more. What are you most proud of?
Stephanie Samuel: My proudest moment is working as a freelancer for the AFRO-American newspaper. Before becoming a freelance writer, I had graduated from college with no internships to speak of and no job leads. I didn’t know what it meant to be a freelancer but I knew I wanted to write for a living. Looking back on it, I can’t believe that my shy 20-year-old self walked into that newsroom and negotiated a job. It was truly a leap of faith. But without that leap, I would not have the career I have now.
If you were allowed a “do-over”, what would you do differently in your career, and how?
Stephanie Samuel: While I have made some embarrassing mistakes, I would never want a do over. I believe my mishaps help me to become better at my craft. The secret to turning a mistake into a valuable lesson is to get pass the emotion and ask myself what could I have done differently.
What books have helped/motivated you in your career, if any?
Stephanie Samuel: Two Books – At Home in the World by the late Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl and But Enough about Me by Rolling Stone Writer and MTV VJ Jancee Dunn. Pearl writes with a curiosity and lust for life that I admire. Dunn’s memoir is a lot fun but it also offers great tips for interviewing high-profile people.
Last but not least, if you had to give only three tips to women in general, and women of color in particular, as to how to be successful and happy in their careers, what would these be?
Stephanie Samuel: My tips would be join a professional group to connect with others in your field, continually strive to top your best performance, and find ways to achieve work-life balance so you don’t burn out.
Thank you so much, Stephanie!
Readers, any other questions for Stephanie? For those of you who are in the journalism field, or would like to enter this field, would you like to contribute to the conversation?
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Feb 16, 2015 | Career
Photo credit: ssets.wornon.tv
We’ve all seen it, at some point or another. The rising associate with the latest Tory Burch bag, the newly promoted lawyer sporting her brand-spankin’ new Birkin bag as a sign of achievement, the CEO with the sparkling Rolex watch…
Fashion, and clothing especially, have become a way to celebrate our achievements, especially in the professional realm. Just look at celebrities vying for the New York FashionWeek shows’ front rows! Especially for the few women who are able to stand out from the crowd and break their own professional glass ceiling, haven’t they earned the right to display their bigger status? The higher the status, the more abundant the signs of prosperity. Hence the rationale, the better I dress, the more credibility I can buy myself, right? Does this mean we are expected to dress in expensive clothing to make it at work?
My $0.05: I think being well dressed at work is important. Not only does it increase your confidence, but it also projects a positive professional image. Yet, sporting $1, 200 Louboutins as an entry-level associate may raise a few eyebrows among your peers and even management. Although what you wear is really your business, the workplace is filled with subjective perceptions, of which you should be aware.
Truth is, very often, expensive clothing and fashion accessories are worn as a symbol of professional status, whether it reflects your title or the type of company you work in. At the end of the day, you need to know your workplace culture and adapt to it. Expensive clothing will buy you a certain image to a certain extent, however the only thing that will guarantee continued credibility is the quality of your work!
Thoughts? Do you think expensive clothing can buy you credibility at work?
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Feb 16, 2015 | Career
NYFW 2015 DVF – Photo credit: washingtonpost.com
I’m always interested in observing how fashion portrays the various stages of a woman’s life and growth (besides the sheer fact I simply enjoy anything fashion-related, please don’t judge me). And when it comes to stimulating our intellectual and physical “fashionable” senses, New York Fashion Week hardly ever disappoints.
After picking a few styles from NYFW you can actually rock at work, today’s post is around Power Lady career wear picks I’ve spotted
Victoria Beckham NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: fashiontimes.com
of New York Fashion Week’s online coverage. Here is a look at the 10 Power Woman styles that made me think of boardrooms, power meetings, and impeccable, look-at-me-rule style from no one else than dress gurus Victoria Beckham, Diane Von Furstenberg:
Jason Wu NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: instyle.com
Jason Wu NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: instyle.com
dion-lee NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: fashiontimes.com
Jill Stuart NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: hollywoodlife.com
Altuzarra NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: instyle.com
DKNY NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: vogue.com
NYFW 2015 DVF – Photo credit: washingtonpost.com
Derek Lam NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: washingtonpost.com
Diane Von Furstenberg NYFW 2015 – Photo credit: vogue.com
by Solange Lopes | Feb 16, 2015 | Career |
Hold your own in meetings – Photo credit: the gloss.com
My first meeting as a freshly minted associate in a prominent Public Accounting firm left me gasping for air seconds after it was over. I was the only associate in the room, out-numbered and out-ranked by engagement seniors, managers and client directors. I uttered not one word, feeling the sky would crumble over my head if I dared saying anything. The next ten or so meetings I attended were similar, and again, felt like sheer torture. College had taught me the basics of accounting, yet when it came to holding my own in a meeting room where I was the youngest ,least experienced, not to mention the only woman of color, that did not come with the degree, or any technical manual for that matter.
Holding your own in any meeting is challenging. Speaking up and effectively contributing to the conversation when you’re out-numbered, out-ranked, and frankly over-powered, can take you over the edge. Yet, it’s in these types of challenging situations that younger, ambitious career women (and men) can set themselves aside from the crowd and attract opportunities early on in their careers. How does one behave when not taught what to do, say (or even how to breathe) when everyone else in the room seems to have an edge over you?
1. Prepare, prepare, prepare! You never want to be caught in a situation where you have no clue what is being discussed. There is a reason why you are in this meeting, other than providing copies and occasionally arranging coffee runs (yes, it happens). Even when it seems your opinion is not valued or asked for, make it your responsibility to inquire of what will be discussed during the meeting, research it, and gather at least three points of discussion you could contribute if the opportunity presents itself. This is especially important for introverts at work, who feel more comfortable when coming in over-prepared. Make sure you are familiar with the basics, i.e. the agenda, who the attendees are, the time and location (showing up in the wrong conference room will not cut it). Oh, and make sure to bring enough copies for everyone in the room, even if you’re not asked! Hooking up the partner on the job with an extra copy of the agenda will always work in your advantage…
2. Repeat after me, NEVER, EVER diminish yourself by emphasizing your rookie status! In other words, even if you feel you ain’t got no business even gracing the wallpaper in the meeting room, refrain from digging your own grave! You have as much right to be there as anyone else, otherwise you just wouldn’t be. Women especially tend to feel out of place in high-powered, more masculine work environments, especially when subject to “manterruptions” and other obstacles to speaking up effectively at work. Whatever you do (or think), do not mention your lack of experience, newness or lower rank; you’ll only succeed at making yourself feel worse, and everyone else doubt why you deserve to be here in the first place.
3. Fake a Power Attitude! This is when the “fake it ’til you make it” mantra comes in. You could be at the job for two minutes or ten years, and nothing else will ever beat a power attitude. A study by the Harvard Review found adopting a power pose like the Wonder Woman for just a few minutes before entering a stressful situation can boost testosterone levels, which are associated with feelings of power and dominance. Practice a power attitude, put your shoulders back, take a deep breath, and walk into that room like you own it…because really, you do!
How do you hold your own in meetings when you are out-numbered and out-ranked?
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Feb 15, 2015 | Career
Black History Women – Photo credit: http://blackartblog.blackartdepot.com
It’s Black History Month, and as Chris Rock puts it, it happens on the shortest, coldest month, just in case we want to have a parade...As we commemorate the firsts of pioneering African-Americans through history, celebrate our heritage through educational and artistic events, even recreate their images in the media, let’s also be reminded that our individual stories, as women and minorities everywhere, whether in life or at work, happen every day, every month, every year. And we get to make a difference every day, to re-write History, and tell our own stories for others to be inspired as they write their own…
In 1773, Phillys Wheatley became the first African-American woman to publish a book, despite the fact she was sold into slavery at the ripe age of 8! Ms. Wheatley is my personal heroine, across history, gender and race, because not only did she make her own story, she also managed to let her voice be heard by telling it! At a time when commercial hits such as Selma, which has grossed over $32 million and was nominated for both Best Picture and Best Song Oscars, speak historical truths to our hearts and minds, we still need to own our stories and tell them for all to hear! Despite the fact our economic power does indeed have the power to sway the balance, too many of us are still painfully silent…
It takes more than 28 days to own our history, past and present. While Black History Month is a great time to be reminded of those who fought, struggled and let their stories be told for the rest of us to walk through the doors they’ve helped open, let’s let it be just that, a reminder! A reminder to keep on keepin’ on every day of every month of every year of our own personal History. A reminder to make a difference in our own lives and that of others, amidst our own circumstances, however challenging or fortunate they may be.
A reminder that just like Phyllis Wheatley, it is our responsibility as people, across race, gender, nationality and ethnic origin, to always strive for more. You are the heroine of your own History, you have the power to write and re-write it the best way you know how. And this History, your History, lasts much longer than 28 days…
“The world is a severe schoolmaster, for its frowns are less dangerous than its smiles and flatteries, and it is a difficult task to keep in the path of wisdom.” – Phillys Wheatley
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Feb 15, 2015 | Career
Weekly news update – Photo credit: thegrio.com
Happy Sunday!
Hope everyone had a good “Love Day” yesterday, and that you found a way, however unconventional, to spread the love around! Dear hubby and I went out with some friends to our local Fogo de Chao and enjoyed the best meat cuts and spiciest caipirinhas (a Brazilian cachaca-and-fruit-juice drink). As I’m still (painfully) digesting and checking out the blizzard conditions outside my window (Mr. Winter is still not letting out), here is my weekly news update, with a side of extra love for all of you my readers:
- Last Sunday, the Grammys were in full swing, and while many say it was Sam Smith’s night, I say girls ran the Grammy’s in so many ways;
- Black History Month is every month for me, not just in February. Still love Huff Post‘s shout out to the forgotten heroines of Black History, and Essence’s announcement its editor-in-chief Vanessa K. DeLucas will be moderating a Black History discussion at the White House;
- As we are just getting (somewhat) used to the idea Jon Stewart is leaving the Daily Show, Inc. reminds us the Daily Show was actually created by two women;
- New York Fashion Week started this week, and USA Today shares some beautiful news about the first model with Down syndrome walking the runway, while I took a first look at some NYFW styles you can actually wear to work;
- Congratulations are in order for Google Maps, which celebrated its 10th year anniversary last Monday. Fortune kindly reminded us of the woman behind the one tool that allows you to discover your local restaurants as well as it can take you to the mythical Greek monuments;
- Speaking of congratulations, we send our biggest “hurrahs” to Deloitte’s Cathy Engelbert, who became Deloitte’s first female CEO;
- Business Insider confirms sexism is still rampant in the airline industry, and frankly, we’re not al that surprised;
- Speaking of sexism, Slate reveals teachers give girls better grades in maths when they don’t know they are girls (yes, the glass ceiling starts very early on);
- As we’re in the swing of complaints against sexism, ThinkProgress reveals students see male professors as brilliant geniuses, while female professors are perceived as bossy and annoying;
- If you can’t wait for your next vacation, you may want to move to Japan! Huffington Post reveals Japan is considering making vacation mandatory, and frankly, the US should too;
- Mark your lingerie shopping calendars! The Root reveals actress Halle Berry launches an affordable, French-inspired, affordably priced lingerie line (ooh la la);
- NY Mag writes we should all take a nap right now, and Huff Post Healthy Living confirms with this article on how to sleep at your desk, while Elle explains why your office needs a nap room (now I’m sleepy);
- Last but not least, to all the “yes” people out there, Oprah has some inspirational words for you on what she knows for sure about always saying yes.
Happy Sunday, and much love!
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Feb 14, 2015 | Career
Girl Boss – Photo credit: amazon.com
I finally read “Girlboss” by Nasty Gal’s ex-CEO Sophia Amoruso (she stepped down this past January, yet will remain active in the company she founded as executive chairman). Yes, the book is not a novelty, but with two toddlers and a non-existing dishwasher, you learn to celebrate small victories, like getting through anything, especially a book…
I was glad to read Girlboss after most of the mostly positive noise around it had subsided a bit. I finished it during a flight to a mini-vacation in the Dominican Republic, just in time to get me off my ass, out of a temporary funk and into some new determination territory. The book is un-pretentious, refreshingly honest, and so candid it makes you want to share your most intimate secrets with the author over a glass (or bottle) of Sauvignon blanc.
While it details in hilarious episodes Ms. Amoruso’s journey from middle-class kid to introvert anarchist (yup) and finally ground-breaking, magic-producing, no-nonsense girl boss, what this book really succeeds in doing is giving you hope, unabashed, get-off-your-couch-and-do-something kind of hope, with a side of funny, edifying quotes you’ll want to paste on all your social media walls. Things like ” It is she who listens to the rest of the world who fails, and it is she who has enough confidence to define success and failure for herself who succeeds“, or ” Money looks better in the bank than on your feet” (oh boy, how that spoke to me), or my introverted self favorite, “in no way does being an introvert doom you into a life of shadows“.
Sophia Amoruso is that introverted girlfriend who won’t come to parties with you (because dealing with people is not exactly her thing), but with whom you will recreate the world through endless conversations, exciting experiences and even meaningful silences. It’s that girlfriend nobody else gets (and even finds a bit weird), but you, the dreamer, the entrepreneur, you, the girl boss at heart, you get her. She inspires you, she lights that quiet fire within you, she gets you off your funky couch into Possibility Land, all in a very real, very funny way.
And that’s why this easy-to-read, no-nonsense book about life, fear, success, failure, money, work, and finding yourself in the midst of it all, may just be the one book you will keep on picking up off your bookshelf over and over again (or pulling up on your Kindle, sorry I’m old-fashioned), long after you’ve forgotten all about the conventional work and life wisdom advice your mama gave you…
A must-read, at any age, any time, any life station…
The Corporate Sis.
