by Solange Lopes | Dec 3, 2014 | Career |
Tanisha Robinson – Photo: fastcompany.com
Today I would like to introduce a new series I’ve been itching to start for some time, called “Woman of Impact”. This series is to showcase women, especially minority women, who are making a difference in the corporate and business world, and inspiring the rest of us. This week, it’s my pleasure to discover, and write about, Tanisha Robinson, female, black and gay CEO of Print Syndicate.
A self-proclaimed introvert and entrepreneur extraordinaire, Ms. Robinson is as authentic as it comes. And for a 5’11” black woman sporting a fro and openly declaring her sexual orientation, authenticity, especially in business, is no easy feat.
After being dismissed from the Army because of her sexual orientation, Tanisha Robinson went on to find a warmer welcome in the more diverse world of tech. Successfully experImenting with affiliate marketing at first, and creating a deals site she later sold, Ms. Robinson started making her mark in e-commerce, and enjoying it too. Her latest startup, Print Syndicate, launched with longtime business partner Michael Limes, helps people express their identity through customized apparel.
What struck me about Tanisha Robinson as I scoured articles about her, is her categorical refusal to compromise her identity for the sake of business success. And as it turns out, her authenticity and honesty about who she is and what she represents may just be behind her massive, and growing success.
It gives me hope to see Black and minority women striving without compromising, keeping their soul intact and baring it for the world to see that, in diversity, authenticity and truth, we all end up winning…
Thank you Tanisha Robinson!
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Dec 2, 2014 | Career |
Workplace giving – Photo: http://www.abilityconnectioncolorado.org
Happy #GivingTuesday! So you’ve had a day to give thanks (mostly for your stomach’s miraculous capacity at ingesting high-fat food), a couple of days to break the bank (and then some), and while you’re still standing (albeit with your wallet lighter and your body heavier), how about giving something away…at work? And no, I don’t mean the five minutes your computer takes its sweet time to shut down, or how you left the last donut in the cafeteria untouched (after ingesting three of its dough brothers), but really give something of yourself…
Are you an encourager, or is there a giant STOP sign somewhere between your teeth and the roof of your mouth preventing you from uttering a single word of encouragement to anyone? How about paying a compliment to one of your team members who’s been staying late every night? Or finding a way to help a co-worker solve a work problem? Or contributing as a team to a charity in need? What have you given at work lately, that did not reflect itself on your paycheck?
It’s Giving Tuesday, choose to inspire and encourage others, and watch how it will motivate you in return. Besides, motivating others is the true sign of leadership!
Happy Giving Tuesday!
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Dec 2, 2014 | Career
Chaps Colorblock Sheath dress – $73.50 – Photo: kohl’s.com
Loving this Chaps color block sheath dress in Women’s Plus size from Kohl’s! It’s perfect for curvy figures, with strategic (and slimming) color blocking down the sides and a classic, flattering sheath silhouette for work and after-hours! The black and cream color is versatile enough for day and night, and lends itself to endless styling options! This dress is on sale for $73.50 at Kohl’s!
I’d pair this statement dress with easy, understated jewelry like this pair of ice gem hoops from Baublebar, or this delicate wishbone bracelet for good luck and great style!
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Dec 2, 2014 | Career
do-not-disturb – Photo: mindfuldigressions.com
Bosses come in various packages, some have the “nice boss” tag on, and others, well…just carry the “do not disturb” sign like it’s nobody’s business. Working with, or rather around, a boss who’s hardly available can be a tough challenge. From not being able to get the support needed, to flat-out not knowing what one is supposed to do, dealing with a boss who’s never around can wreak havoc on your work, your self-esteem, not to mention the bit of professional sanity you have left.
There are still ways to thrive and kick ass, even when the boss is not around as much as we’d like.
1. Cut them some slack! If your boss is usually available and is no longer as available, it may be they’re unusually busy and unable to accommodate you! Besides, it’s probably not because or about you! They may just be bogged down with deadlines of their own, or have a big project in the pipeline. Cut them some slack and instead ask how you can help! If it is a consistent pattern though, consider whether you really want to work for a “ghost” boss.
2. Be the initiator! With a super-busy boss or one who tends to macro-manage, you need to initiate the dialogue. Be resourceful, shoot them an email, call them, and check in when needed! I worked for a manager who was constantly traveling, and made it a point to send a detailed weekly e-mail update to keep him on top of what was going on. Also, don’t wait for your manager to give you instructions, be one step ahead of the game! Initiate a much needed project, figure out how you can take something off their plate, ask the right questions, and thrive on your own!
3. Look on the bright side! Working for a micro-manager is very stressful! When you have the opportunity to spread your wings and show initiative without being put under the microscope, grab it and run! Instead of taking it personally, take it as a challenge and step up to the plate! Recognize you’re being trusted and show what you’ve got!
How do you deal with a boss who’s unavailable?
The Corporate Sis
by Solange Lopes | Dec 1, 2014 | Career
Photo: tbarm.com
‘Tis the season of gift-giving, and if you were out shopping on Black Friday, and are raiding the Cyber Monday sales today, chances are you’re wondering what to get your co-workers for the holidays. Most offices will do a Yankee swap style gift-exchange, while others will leave their employees to decide what is the most appropriate gift to give co-workers, colleagues and managers.
I’ve looked around for inspiration, and here are a few resources you can use to get something appropriate, yet inexpensive, to your co-workers or boss:
- The Wall St Cheat Sheet has a list of 20 of the best holiday gifts for your co-workers;
- BusinessWeek curated a nice selection of last minute gifts for your office colleagues;
- The Huffington Post Canada has some pretty innovative Christmas gift ideas for Secret Santa at work;
- And if you happen to be in doubt, WSTP has a list of the worst 8 office Christmas gifts ever;
- Last but not least, Business Insider has 18 perfect gifts to offer your favorite young professional guy!
My $0.05: As a rule of thumb, I’d advise getting gifts up to a value of $25 each to keep these reasonable and conflict of interest free, not to mention non-taxable to the recipient. And always, always keep it tasteful! If you can’t give it to your boss, you can’t give it to anyone in the office.What are you planning to offer your co-workers this holiday season?
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Dec 1, 2014 | Career
Notched-collar suit – $99.99 – Photo: macys.com
I’ve written earlier about the holidays being the ideal time to give your career a boost, and so should you with your work wardrobe as well…This Tahari suit is sharp, both for work and after-hours! Loving the bold hue of this suit, and the original notched collar which adds a contemporary edge to an otherwise classic suit. The straight fit of the pants is universally flattering, with the waistband sitting below the natural waist. This suit is on sale for $99.99 at Macy’s!
I also like this sleek Santorelli crepe wool suit from Nordstrom, or this sharp Albert Nipon tweed pantsuit from Neiman Marcus, or even this splurge of a one lapel Giorgio Armani pantsuit. For added umph, I would even consider merchandising this pantsuit with a show-stopping belt like this leather woven chain belt from Ann Taylor, or this sleek patent belt.
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Dec 1, 2014 | Career
Photo: workingnurse.com
Yes, the holidays are in full swing, and in between Black Friday, Cyber Monday, shopping here and decorating there, your career may have taken bit of a backseat…And you’re certainly not the only one. Yet this may be the very (busy) time you may be able to use to your advantage to give your career a very serious (and probably much needed) boost.
Although December is the slowest hiring month, there are still ways to use this time to advance yourself at work:
1. Leverage the holiday partying! Nothing like a holiday party to get your networking on! Be sure to exchange contact information, try and meet as many new people as you can, and make a favorable impression!
2. Explore work opportunities! Now is a good time to reach out to recruiters or potential employers for work prospects! It’s the end of the year, and they may not only take your phone call, but be looking forward to it!Don’t forget to look into temp work as well, to make some side money or even explore a new field for a potential career transition.
3. Time to re-energize! While the holidays may push us into overdrive, it could also (and should) be a time to slow down and transition into the new year more energized! So, as much as you can, limit the exhausting shopping trips to the strict necessary, skip the boring parties, and give yourself the one gift you’ve been craving: time!
How are you planning on using the holidays to boost your career?
The Corporate Sis.
