2019 Update: We still stand by this advice on how to handle necessary personal calls at work and images and links have been updated below. Sometimes you simply have to make personal calls at the office — perhaps to ask your doctor a question, call a plumber about a broken hot water heater, or something … Read More about How to Handle Necessary Personal Calls at Work
Feeling Jealous of a Younger Colleague
What should you do if you’re feeling envious of a colleague who’s younger than you, seemingly unappreciative of the opportunity you’re giving her, and also — in your opinion — inappropriately flirty at networking events? Reader J wonders: I’m a 40 yr old business development manager at an engineering firm. I’ve formed a group of female colleagues that helps … Read More about Feeling Jealous of a Younger Colleague
Decorating Your Office Walls: 3 Ways to Jazz it Up
So you want to make your workspace look nice & professional—great! But where to start, beyond a framed diploma? Here are 3 tips for decorating office walls.
Career Hiccups
I’ve gotten a few requests lately to address “career hiccups” — how to deal with failing the bar, being awkward with coworkers, making a huge mistake — and I think this is a great question. So: let’s discuss. For my $.02, I think that YOU are the biggest hurdle to get over after a career hiccup. You … Read More about Career Hiccups
Should You Ever Hire a Friend?
Hiring friends: yea or nay? Does your answer vary if you’re hiring a friend to be a colleague/equal versus hiring an assistant? We’ve talked about interviewing with friends, but not the reverse situation, hiring a friend. Reader M wonders… I work at a small law firm. I’m pretty junior, but I have a considerable amount … Read More about Should You Ever Hire a Friend?
The Sleeveless Professional: Body Types, Bare Arms, and Expectations
Is it professional to go sleeveless at the office — even if you don’t have perfect arms? When you want to bare your arms at your sleeveless-is-acceptable office, is it worth considering other people’s potential reactions if you don’t exactly have Michelle Obama arms to show off? Do people adjust their expectations of what’s “appropriate” when considering coworkers of … Read More about The Sleeveless Professional: Body Types, Bare Arms, and Expectations
Being Confident at Work vs. Being Arrogant
What’s the difference between confidence and arrogance, especially at work, especially for women? How can you tell if you’ve crossed that line at work? Reader A wonders… I’ve got a sensitive subject that I haven’t seen discussed about discipline at work. I was recently hired at a law office where I’ve summered the last two … Read More about Being Confident at Work vs. Being Arrogant
Are Crossbody Bags Professional?
Are crossbody bags professional? Could you wear one to a business lunch, or a networking event? Reader C wonders… Is a crossbody bag considered professional? I’m tired of carrying a ton of bags to work (briefcase, pump, lunch bag, and purse) and am trying to downsize my handbag. I’m considering purchasing the Lo & Sons … Read More about Are Crossbody Bags Professional?
What to Wear to an Alumni Lunch Event
If you’re planning to attend an alumni lunch for your law school — and you’ll be taking the opportunity to network there — how should you dress? Is wearing a suit a must in this situation?
Women Leaders: Being Liked vs. Being Respected
Do you feel like you have to be a “bitch in business” to get ahead? How do you reconcile as a woman leader wanting to be liked — versus wanting to be respected?
How to Style Long Hair for Job Interviews
Wondering how to style long hair for job interviews? We weigh in on whether wearing it down will make you look too young…
Over-the-Knee Boots at the Office?
While doing our round-up of knee-high boots, I was struck by how things have changed in such a short time — when I first started this blog, knee-high boots were still pretty scandalous, and over-the-knee boots (or OTK boots) were completely, totally risqué. Cut to today, and they’re EVERYWHERE — flat versions, high-heeled versions, on … Read More about Over-the-Knee Boots at the Office?