Motivate Monday"Why is it the older we get the more competition we feel with other women?
We can all rise to the top by lifting each-other up. The first step in igniting any sort of change is #awareness - next time you notice yourself making a not so kind (let's be honest...rude) comment about a fellow female. Check yourself WHY did you do that - to make yourself feel "accepted" in a group? To boost your own ego? Get clear on your intention - forgive yourself (you're only human) and make a CHOICE to change your words in the future. And... hey! Don't forget the little playful girl inside of you - hug a friend today. " - Rachael Bozsik, Founder and CEO of The Brand Girls
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4 STRATEGIES FOR THE COLLEGE GIRL WITH ANXIETYExperts say that 1 in 5 college students struggle with anxiety or depression and The Brand Girls team knows that no one is immune. If you’re a college gal who is feeling mega-anxious about the uncertainty of your future, our program is here to help! Check out these additional tips to help build your confidence while learning to manage your feelings of anxiety. ![]() Know your triggers and prepare BEFORE them: This is a big one! Whether you’re anxious, stressed, or just feelin’ like you want to crawl back into bed, the key is getting to the root of why you feel that way. What situations, people, or things are making you feel worse? Once you acknowledge that studying for finals always kicks your anxiety into overdrive, you can come up with a plan to start studying earlier this year so it's more manageable. ![]() Grab a buddy: It's true, almost EVERYTHING is harder to get through solo! Having a go-to gal to help you through the hard days, especially if she’s struggled with anxiety herself, can be a game-changer that makes you feel supported and understood. ![]() Focus on things you can control: Psychology Today shares that a major part of anxiety is stressing over things that we can't control. Acknowledge the things you can’t control, but then flip the script on your negative thoughts by focusing on the things you can control. Try making a list to remind yourself even though many things are outside of your control, there are also many things that you have the power to change. ![]() Find your outlet: Many people struggling with anxiety swear by yoga, reading, walking and even meditation. Our advice? Be open to trying new outlets to release some of your anxious energy until you find whatever works for you! We hope these tips help ease your anxieties. Remember, The Brand Girls team is always here to help if you need it! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ Tuesday Tips: 3 Ways to Kick Your Crutch Words to the CurbWhat is your crutch word? You know what we’re talking about. That word you always use. That word that helps fill the space while your mind plays catch up. That word that you don’t even realize you say anymore. Yep. We’re talking about these words: like, um, actually, literally - you know the ones. Ring any bells? The Brand Girls team knows that putting your best foot forward is crucial for your personal brand, so we’re here to help you kick your crutch words to the curb. ![]() Identify them: Do you know what your crutch words are? You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what it is! Ask others who know you well what words you overuse. You can also read back over your papers and social media posts - chances are you’re using the same words there too. Pro tip: Set up your iPhone and take a video of yourself speaking + play it back. Not only will this help you realize what words you may rely on too much, but you’ll also get a glimpse at your body language. ![]() Start thinking about WHY you use these words: Now let’s get to the root of the problem. Why do you keep leaning on these same phrases over and over? A lot of times, we revert to crutch words because we're not prepared. How many times have you said “um” during a presentation because you forgot what came next? How often do you say “like” when you’re trying to fill more time, but have nothing else to say? The more you prepare, the less you'll rely on crutch words! ![]() Try a new technique: Whether it’s a business presentation or a speech in class, many of us tend to use filler words to fill the silence. *face-palm* Taking a pause is one of the most powerful things you can do when you’re speaking. It gives your listeners time to reflect on your insight and think through it. Another way to do that? Ask them a question. These two techniques allow you to give yourself a break instead of using one of your default words. You’ve likely been using these words for a long time, which is why they’ve become second nature to you. Remember, it takes time and practice to break our bad habits. But if you start to address them now, you can only improve. Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ 4 Tips for Juggling a Job or Internship as a Full-Time StudentYou’re a full-time student, a leader on your campus, an intern for your dream company - all while trying to have a social life, workout and get enough sleep. Sounds like you’re living the life, right? Trust us, The Brand Girls team knows it’s not that easy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed from trying to do everything, check out The Brand Girls tips for juggling it all with grace. ![]() Choose your priorities: I’m an all or nothing kinda gal, and so many of our brilliant Brand Girls are too! I like to remind myself, “You should be all in for a few things, but you can’t be all in for everything.” Everyone wants to work out 5 days a week, nail it at their dream job, save more $, travel the world, spend time with family/friends, and also never leave the couch… but we can’t do it ALL flawlessly. Choose your priorities - it helps if you write them down as a reminder of what you’re committed to the most right now. ![]() Consistency is key: Once you choose what priorities you’re keeping your focus on, you have to stick with it in order to be successful. Schedule time on your calendar and set reminders to hold yourself accountable! (An accountability partner never hurts either). ![]() Stop beating yourself up already: No one looks back and had their life all together by 22. It’s time to stop expecting yourself to be perfect at EVERYTHING. If you’re really struggling, try this: Pick one area of your life at a time that you want to see yourself improve and write out a plan to reach your goals in that area. Rinse and repeat! ![]() Embrace the chaos with gratitude: Do you ever feel like you have way too many things going on at once? Like your head is going to explode from the endless to-do lists and deadlines? Take a deep breath. Remember how badly you wanted to get into that college. Think back to the number of job applications you sent out before landing that position. Don’t forget how hard you worked to get where you are. Let the craziness of right now turn into gratitude for how far you’ve come and how far you’re going. You’ve got this! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ 6 Female Millennial Entrepreneurs to WatchAs a member of The Brand Girls, it’s likely that you strive for certain things: a challenging and fulfilling professional life is at the top of the list. Well, we hear you - and while it’s always good to look up to those who have become household names, it’s also important to know about the women in OUR GENERATION that are getting things done the #girlboss way. Whether they are in the boardroom or working in the field, these ladies are making some big moves and seriously impacting the world for the better. Below, you’ll find six female millennial entrepreneurs to watch. ![]() Rachael Bozsik - The Brand Girls Of course, we have to start this list with The Brand Girls CEO and Founder, Rachael Bozsik. Rachael started The Brand Girls out of her college dorm senior year, and as you can see that business is going strong. We love her passion for empowering college women so they have the head start they need to get their dream jobs. ![]() Jess Ekstrom - Headbands of Hope Another college start-up, Jess was inspired to help the world when she noticed a lot of children wearing headbands to help with their confidence after losing their hair to chemotherapy. Driven by her desire to help these children, Jess started Headbands of Hope, which went from a single order in 2012 to a wildly successful international brand that is supported by major organizations and donates headbands to 16 countries. ![]() Monique Lindner - Unlimited U Monique is another lady who believes in one of Team BG’s favorite catchphrases: empowered women empower women. Her journey began when she started her podcast, Unlimited U, as a way to help build a sense of community through interviews with women who had overcome terrible things. She now has given a TEDx talk, became a coach for other entrepreneurs, and supports women’s efforts worldwide. ![]() Justine Ezarik - iJustine This woman is every aspiring YouTuber’s dream. Justine Ezarik, or iJustine, has managed to rack up over 5 million subscribers and almost 1 BILLION views. While her path to entrepreneur goals was a slow climb (she started her channel in 2006), Justine proves that sometimes it really does pay to be funny. ![]() Lauren Bush - FEED Remember those bags and t-shirts in Target from a few years back? The ones that had little numbers at the bottom? Well, those items were produced by Lauren Bush’s FEED, and those numbers tell you how much food you are giving back to those in need by purchasing that item. Straightforward, and so so awesome. Thanks, Lauren! ![]() Lisa Wang - SheWorx Lisa graduated from Yale, worked on Wall Street, AND became a USA Hall of Fame Gymnast all before 30, but that’s not why she is on this list. Lisa is also the CEO and Founder of SheWorx, a platform designed to help female entrepreneurs get the support and funding they need to be as successful as possible. How awesome! We hope you’ve taken inspiration from the fabulous ladies above as you continue to break boundaries and glass ceilings while you work towards your goals. Maybe next time, The Brand Girls will be talking about YOU.
Tuesday Tips: 4 Secrets to Help You Nail Your Work or School PresentationsWhether you’re still in college or your second job post-grad, perfecting your presentation skills is an important skill. Presenting isn’t something that comes naturally to everyone, so The Brand Girls are sharing our 4 secrets to help you nail your work or school presentations. ![]() Keep it simple: One problem with a lot of presentations is they’re too complicated for the audience to follow. You want to make it as easy as possible for your listeners to connect the dots. ![]() Get to the point: Here’s one of our quick guides to check if your presentation gets to the point:
If your friend didn’t get the point of your presentation, go back to #1 and simplify until your point is clear. ![]() Find the WHY for your audience: Spend a few minutes thinking about your audience and WHY they should care about your presentation. Ask yourself questions ahead of time like “How will this affect them?” “Are there any actions they need to take after this presentation?” “What questions might they have?” You want to do as much of the work for your audience ahead of time as possible. ![]() Practice, practice, practice: We’ve all seen a presentation that someone threw together the night before… The most important thing you can do to perfect your presentation is PRACTICE. Pro tip: Practice in front of your mirror or take a video of yourself so you can check your body language and pace of the speech! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ 4 Things You Need to Do Before Your Summer Internship EndsWow, where has the summer gone?! The Brand Girls team certainly can’t believe that we’re halfway through it. In a month, so many of us will be getting ready to go back to college, so this is a great time to think about how to gracefully exit your banging summer internship. Here is our advice on what to do before your internships ends so you can leave as a total #girlboss! ![]() Complete your brag sheet: This one is super important to do BEFORE the end of your internship. Write down everything you’ve accomplished at your internship with concrete numbers and facts so you can wow future employers. ![]() Send out thank you notes: Kindness goes so far today, and in the work world something as simple as a thank you note can go even farther. Show your team that you have enjoyed and appreciated the opportunities that you have had with and because of them. This will boost your networking credibility! ![]() Collect letters of reference or recommendation: Another tip that is super important BEFORE the end of your internship. You want to make sure that your references are able to write about you while all the amazing skills you’ve showcased are still fresh in their minds. ![]() Update your resume: This is kind of a given, but you would be surprised by the number of women who wait too long to update their resume and then look out of date. This doesn’t just apply to experience by the way; if you learned something new on the job, it could be a great addition to your skills section! We hope you have a great rest of your internship and you use these tips to help land your next one!
The First Job Etiquette Rules All College Grads Should Live ByHaving your first job out of college can feel freeing. Money in your bank account? Check. Food in your fridge? Check. New work friends? Check. But your first job also sets the tone for your entire career, so it’s important to make a lasting impression. Here are The Brand Girls’ first job etiquette rules that all college grads should follow. ![]() Go easy at happy hour: Having work friends to grab dinner with can be a fun break from the office, but go easy at happy hour. While every industry and company is different, Business Insider recommends staying in ‘professional mode’ even when you’re not in the office. The Brand Girls team agrees - that means sticking to the tried and true two-drink maximum rule for any happy hours or work events. P.S. Always be responsible and share an Uber home! ![]() Put your phone away: In college, we’re used to being able to talk to our friends whenever we want. While sending a silly Snapchat in class may have been funny, it can be seen as unprofessional at work. Our BG pro tip: Flip your phone down on the table during meetings so you won’t be tempted to check what your cousin just tagged you in on Facebook! ![]() Eye contact and handshakes aren’t old school: Our friends at Forbes share that body language reveals the ‘true meaning’ behind what you say. Actions like nodding, making consistent eye contact, giving handshakes and thanking people for their time go a LONG way for making (and keeping) relationships in the business world. Keep The Brand Girls’ first job etiquette rules in mind and you’ll be destined for the boardroom in no time - you go girl! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ 3 Tricks for Overcoming Anxiety and Rocking Your First JobAs unfortunate as it is, anxiety is a very common issue in society today, and millennials are dealing with it at much higher rates than previous generations. Your first job is no exception. There are many different types of the disorder and dealing with it can feel annoying, tiring, and even embarrassing, especially in the workforce. While there is no cure all for anxiety, The Brand Girls want to offer you these three tips to help you overcome anxiety around your first job and in the rest of your life too! ![]() Stay Busy: Most people who suffer with anxiety get so tired out from their stressors that they just want to sleep it off. However, it is much better to make plans after work so that you can have some work/life balance and your job isn’t your sole focus. ![]() Fake It Till You Make It: When you’re anxious, it feels like the world can see what’s going on. Luckily, it’s been proven that faking a smile, saying affirmations or even doing some “power poses” can help you get into the mindset that you need! ![]() Ask For Help: This tip can be the scariest of all. No one wants to feel weak, and it’s easy to think that seeking help does just that. It’s important to remember though, that you’re not alone, and there are many people who want to help you. We hope these tips can help you fight off your anxiety - work-related or otherwise. For more information on anxiety, you can visit https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety
3 REASONS COLLEGE WOMEN NEED TO START PUTTING THEMSELVES FIRSTAs millennial women we are known for wanting it all - our dream jobs (and salaries, hello!), strong relationships, travel, you name it. Despite our big plans, we’re still notorious for putting the needs of others first and taking care of ourselves last. And It can be easy for us to get so caught up in helping others that we lose sight of our own goals and passions. The Brand Girls is here to help you finally make your dreams a reality with three reasons college women need to starting putting themselves first. ![]() Your future is just that - your own: No matter who else is along for the ride, your future truly belongs to YOU. Putting yourself first empowers you to take the reigns in your own life! Now is the time to decide what you want and then make. It. happen. At The Brand Girls, our Founder and CEO, Rachael Bozsik, strives to make all millennial women realize “you are a chooser of opportunities.” ![]() Prioritizing builds strength: The Herald Sun shares, “You slowly leak confidence as you start to question your abilities.” And The Brand Girls couldn’t agree more. By prioritizing yourself and your own needs FIRST - you’re breaking the mold and setting your own tone as a bold, fearless, young professional who can do it all. No room for doubt here, ladies! ![]() You can’t fill from an empty cup: Focusing on yourself and your own goals first will only give you more energy + inspiration to help others later. “...by tending to our own needs and practicing good self-care, we alter the very quality of how we relate to others,” Psychology Today shares. “Our families, friends, and coworkers get to experience us as the best and fullest versions of ourselves—happy and present.” Remember, working on yourself and your own dreams is healthy. Focusing on your goals first will only strengthen your relationships and leave a better version of you to others! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ Our 3 Favorite Ways to Make Your Break From School ProductiveNow that we are into the second month of summer (I know, time flies), it’s time to start getting back into the grind. However, if you’re like me, you can sometimes really need some motivation to get it in gear, especially if you’ve been pushing yourself for the last few months. To ease that burden, The Brand Girls has put together our three favorite ways to make your break from school more productive. So roll up your sleeves girly, because it’s time to get moving! ![]() Do something that you have been putting off: Remember that gallery wall you were going to create in your bedroom, or the yoga class you keep “forgetting” to sign up for? Summer is the perfect opportunity to switch some things from “to do” to “it’s done”! ![]() Network your sandals off: This is a repeating theme here at The Brand Girls, but we say it for a reason. Now that most companies are out of their busy season, the time is right to send out emails to moguls you admire and check off informational interviews. ![]() Get into new habits: Since this season is one that is out of routine for most of us, the change creates a perfect storm to start your healthier habits! Maybe you want to start habit tracking or juicing in the morning, but whatever it is, the best time to start it is now. We hope these tips provide you the support and motivation you need to get into a productive groove for the rest of the summer and school year! Motivate Monday"Do your thing
Do it unapologetically Do not ask for permission And DO NOT apologize for being yourself after" - Rachael Bozsik, Founder and CEO of The Brand Girls 4 Reasons to Give Back Over Your College Summer BreakSummer is finally in full swing! You know what that means - vacations, internships, and tons of iced coffee! BUT have you thought about spending some time serving your community? There are a ton of different ways to get involved, from cooking for a soup kitchen to spending time at a local animal rescue, and everything in between! We’re here to give you four reasons that giving back this break might just be the best way to spend your summer. ![]() New People: Volunteering is a great way to get out into your community and meet people that you wouldn’t otherwise. This is so beneficial because you’re meeting people who care about the same causes that you do! ![]() Mental Health Benefits: There have been a number of studies that prove that volunteering can help with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety and depression. It’s a wonderful way to shift your focus off of yourself. ![]() A Sense of Purpose: Volunteering is fantastic to help you through a rough patch in your life. If you are unsure how to move in the next stage of your life, helping others can give you an excellent sense of perspective and purpose. ![]() Experience: Getting out of your comfort zone through volunteer work can help you learn skills and have new experiences in a creative and fun way. These open so many doors to opportunities and allow you to grow even more as a person! These are just a few of the things you can accomplish through volunteer work. Volunteering is an incredible way to spread joy this summer, and we hope you will give it a try!
Motivate Monday"Surround yourself by those who lift you higher. Simple as that
Take one minute to get clear in your head - what sort of negative personalities have you been entertaining in your life? Now, here comes to hard part - choose to separate. Either ... 1. Separate yourself physically by not spending your free time with them or 2. If you can not remove yourself physically due to them being a family member, co-worker etc. then make an effort to remove yourself from the conversation as soon as they start to speak toxic words. This means you physically get up and leave or do not respond back and forth in encouraging their voice. What you speak becomes your reality" - Rachael Bozsik, Founder and CEO of The Brand Girls So You Graduated... Now What? Tips and Tricks For Navigating Post-Grad LifeEach graduating class of fierce millennial women who goes through our BG program impresses us more and more. Graduating from college is one of the most important milestones in your life. One that’s exciting, scary, and bittersweet all at once! Our CEO Rachael Bozsik always says she created The Brand Girls because she wishes she had The Brand Girls. So we decided to give you the BG secrets to navigating post-grad life we wish we had sooner! ![]() There’s no such thing as a ‘traditional’ path: “I wish someone told me that you can create your own roles at companies… you don’t always need to look for applications,” says The Brand Girls Founder and CEO Rachael Bozsik. “You can pitch a company you love.” ![]() Be prepared for your plans to change: It’s great to have an idea of what you want to do and how you’re going to get there, but don’t grow too attached to your plans! “Throw your plans and expectations out the window, develop your personal brand and elevator pitch, never miss an opportunity to network, and know that it’ll all be just fine,” says Harris Walker. ![]() Nobody ever has it all together: It’s easy to look around and think everyone else’s life is perfect, but remember that the grass is always greener on the other side. Let go of the comparisons - trust us on this one! ![]() Challenging yourself is the only way to know what you’re capable of: Don’t be afraid of taking a risk by accepting a job with responsibilities you have never done before. This is the time in your career to go out of your comfort zone and learn. ![]() You will figure things out as you go: This might be our most important piece of advice. You’re not supposed to graduate knowing how to do everything. You’re going to make mistakes along the way and there are days that it’s going to be tough. But remember that every mistake you make is also an opportunity for growth. Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ Our Top 5 Secrets for Getting What You Want Out of Your CareerSo, you made it! You’ve got a job in your field. Is it your dream job? Well no, but it’s a great place to start. The question now is: how do you go from little more than an intern to CEO status? The BG Team is here to help! The following tips will help you maximize where you are without getting you stuck. ![]() Decide what it is you actually want: There’s no way you’re going to get moving without a destination in mind. While you might know where you want to go in general, make sure that you figure out at least what your next step is, and move towards that. ![]() Stick with that idea: Once you know where you want to be, stick with it. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a stellar career. Everyday remind yourself of your goal so you can keep it in mind when you’re going about your tasks. ![]() Incentivize others: When looking for a little help moving up, help others too. People are much more likely to do you a favor if you’re willing to do the same for them. Not to mention, this goes right along with one of our favorite catchphrases - empowered women empower women. ![]() Learn by doing: While you might be trying to continue forward in your field, you’re going to need to work on skills to make you promotable. At each stop on your journey, always remember to work on getting the most out of your current position so you can take your knowledge with you to the top. ![]() Ask for feedback: We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: one of the best ways to excel in your field is to learn from those who have been in your shoes. If you want to get to a certain position, it’s a great idea to ask your superiors for feedback to get you there. Tuesday Tips: 5 Tips to Starting Your First Job with Good Savings HabitsOnce you get your first full-time gig post-grad, it’s so tempting to blow through your paychecks now that you’ve got some money in your bank account - finally! But, The Brand Girls knows how crucial it is to start your first job with good savings habits. Never been great at managing your money? Don’t worry, our 6 tips make it easy for millennial women to make smart money moves! ![]() Set realistic goals: The Brand Girls is all about setting goals in every aspect of your life. Grab your notebook and think about what’s realistic. How soon do you want to pay off your student loans? How much do you want to have in your savings? Don’t forget to schedule check ins to monitor your progress! ![]() Write down the goals or events that you’re saving towards: Apps like Qapital make this super easy by allowing you to set aside a little bit each month toward specific goals. The reminder of what you’re saving for pump up your motivation. You’ll be ready to splurge during your trip to Cabo in no time! ![]() Don’t forget to pay yourself, too! Forbes recommends putting money aside in your savings before any other expenses to help you build up your emergency savings fund (3-6 months pay). Studies show this method can help boost your savings much more quickly. ![]() Set a budget - and stick to it: This is a tried and true method for increasing the cash in your pocket. Now, you can do all of your budgeting right from your phone. Check out Daily Worth’s 5 Best Money Apps for Millennials here. ![]() Plan for your future: If your employer offers a 401(k) or pension plan, take advantage of it - especially if they have a matching company contribution. Investors.com shares that the sooner you start contributing, the more money you’ll save over time! Remember, no matter how much money you’re making in your first job out of college, it’s important to set your strong saving habits now - trust us, you don’t want to regret this later! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ Don't Have a Summer Internship? Here's 4 Things You Should Do InsteadNo internship, no problem! Whether you will be away for a good part of your summer, you couldn’t get your applications in on time, or something just came up, there are a TON of reasons why an internship might not be in the cards for you this summer. Don’t worry though, The Brand Girls have everything you need to keep you up to date professionally this summer - even if you’re not interning. ![]() Find your passion: Now that you have some breathing room, the summer is the perfect time to figure out what really lights up your world professionally. This is especially good for those of us who did not want to intern somewhere they were unsure about. Now is your time to find what you love and start working on it! ![]() Network, network, network: This is something that our CEO, Rachael Bozsik, is constantly championing. Summer is the perfect time to start expanding your professional circle and get some informational interviews. Summer is usually a bit more relaxed in the work world, depending on your field, so now is the perfect time to chat with someone you admire. ![]() Volunteer: This might be the best tip of all. Whether you want to donate your time professionally to a local business that needs a helping hand, or you begin working at a soup kitchen, there are many ways to volunteer and better your community. While you can also use this as a resume booster, remember that you should always give selflessly. ![]() Keep learning: If you don’t have too much else on your plate, summer is a great time to educate yourself on something related to your field, or even a hobby! The more you know, the better you look to potential employers, and there are tons of paid and unpaid options - you can even watch YouTube how to’s! Ready, Set, Reflect: 3 Reasons You Should Take Your Journal EverywhereMany times, we have one friend who is the queen of journaling - she was the first one to jump on bullet journals, she tracks her habits daily, and her penmanship deserves to be made in a font. On the other hand, there is also that one friend who is decidedly against keeping a journal; she is usually the one caught saying, “Keeping a journal is just more work than it’s worth.” Whichever of these you are, hopefully we can help remind you why it is important to always keep a journal handy. ![]() Get more organized: Journaling is a great way to keep track of your life. Ladies who plan, journals are a wonderful way to stick to your ways while allowing you to be a little more flexible and creative. This is also fantastic if you want to become a more organized person, but you’re not sure where to start. ![]() Keep track of decisions: Sometimes, the best strategy for decision making is writing it out, and a journal is the perfect place to do it. Whether you need to write down how much it will cost to get a dog, or you want a pro-con list for a job change, journaling can be your new go-to. ![]() Look back: A journal is a great place to document your life, so when you are writing your memoirs you know exactly how you became the world’s #1 fashion designer or a Fortune 500 CEO. With a journal, you have a safe spot to keep track of your personal and professional ups and downs so you know where you’ve come from. We hope these ideas have inspired you to start working on your journaling skills. Now grab a Moleskine and get going!
Oops! 4 Tips to Fixing Your First Big Screw Up at WorkMaking mistakes is a part of life, and will also be part of your career. But The Brand Girls wants to let you in on a little secret… It’s not about the mistake you make, but how you handle it that really counts. Whether you’re at your dream job or first internship, here are our 4 easy tips to fixing your first big screw up at work! ![]() Fess up: Once you realize that you made a mistake, the most important thing to do is to be upfront about what happened. Don’t try to cover it up or hide it from your team - this will only make the situation worse when the mistake comes to light later! ![]() Take responsibility: This one will earn you major points with your team. Your boss will appreciate that not only did you keep them in the loop on the mistake, but you were accountable for it too. Pro tip: Don’t play the blame game! If you played a role in the mistake, take ownership of it. ![]() Come with your game plan: When you alert your boss or your team with a problem, you always want to have a solution ready. If you accidentally posted a tweet meant for your personal account to the company Twitter (with 1K followers - yikes!), what would your game plan be when you approach your boss? Tell us in the comments! ![]() Correct & plan for the future: There’s a big difference between the first time you make a mistake and the 7th time you make a mistake… Once you’ve corrected the situation, make sure you take the proper steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again! The most important thing The Brand Girls wants all fierce millennial women to know is that it’s okay to make mistakes! As your career coach, we want you to know that a big part of growing in your career is going to be taking risks - and they’re not always going to be successful. But with these tips, you’ll handle each one with style and class - and earn a lot of respect from your team for keeping your cool! Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ 4 WAYS TO MAKE YOURSELF A MORE VALUABLE EMPLOYEEWhen it comes to work, while many of the things Millennial women want may differ, we do all have one thing in common: we want to be appreciated. But it can be tough to get the kudos you deserve at your first job or first internship especially because, let’s face it, you haven’t been there very long. Here are 4 ways to make yourself a more valuable employee- ![]() Find your ‘go-to": Being known as the ‘go-to’ employee for something (or multiple things!) is a great way to show your value. At The Brand Girls, we love encouraging you to learn new skills as you go - it will only increase your worth! Make professional development a priority now, you won’t regret it. ![]() Be proactive: One of the easiest ways to boost your value? Think ahead and plan, plan, plan. Always being one step ahead shows your team that you’re a forward-thinker, which is a major asset. According to Glassdoor, Employees who consistently go above and beyond without being asked are on the fast track for a promotion... ka-ching! ![]() Always offer to help: Think about it - do you have a coworker who always lends a hand, no matter the task? People tend to think of these employees as more reliable As Harvard Business Review shares, “your goal is twofold–to get what you ask for and to do it in a way that enables the other person to feel good about helping out.” ![]() Keep track of your successes: Don’t forget to take weekly notes of your big wins and key data points on your BG brag sheet. This is an important tool when it comes to updating your resume or discussing your future promotion (and bonus!). Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ Motivate Monday“If you are reading this post you now have the gift and the challenge to practice a sense of mindfulness.
Look around you and recognize three things that make you smile...next, close your eyes and think of someone in your life right now that needs a hug. Keep your eyes shut and picture yourself giving them a hug - what do they look like, how do they react, how do you FEEL. Mindfulness brings you in the HERE in the NOW so you can be happy for this moment.”- Rachael Bozsik, Founder and CEO of The Brand Girls How to Keep it Professional (When You're About to Lose Your Cool)Do you ever have one of those days where it feels like things just couldn’t get worse? First you get stuck in traffic, then you trip and spill coffee all over your new white blouse, and by the time you make it to lunch, you realize you have a presentation in an hour and you are WAY under-prepared. We’ve all been there. So here are some BG approved tips on how to keep it professional when you’re about to lose your cool. ![]() Drink a glass of water: We all know that being around water makes us calm - who doesn’t feel relaxed after a day at the beach? Drinking some H2O can help you out too! Often times, our bodies get dehydrated from consuming too much caffeine or just not having enough water in general, and this can increase our anxiety. So next time you’re getting a little too nervous, take it over to the water cooler and quench that thirst. ![]() Plan out the rest of your day: When things start piling up, it’s time to take charge of your priorities. Get out a piece of paper and make a cross right in the middle, creating four boxes. Write “Importance” across the top and “Urgency” down the side. Now, fill in everything you need to do based on which box it falls under. Once you’re done, you can see what is of high importance and high urgency, and get those tasks done first. From there, you can check things off as you need to, but you’ll know that you are working smart. ![]() Come in dressed to impress: Dress for the job you want and not the job you have, right? This comes in handy when you’re stressing over professionalism too. When you look the part, you begin to feel the part, which makes you act and think the part. Sometimes the best way to get over professional stress is just fake it till you make it, and this is one of the best ways! So bring out those new pumps and get to work, girl! ![]() Use your stress as a motivator: Instead of letting your stress get the better of you, try reframing the issues. When you change the way you think about your stress and make it motivation, you lower your stress levels as a whole. This technique allows you to channel the tenseness in your body and mind the way it was meant to - to help you get things done. Now you can accomplish more and destress even further. ![]() Take a minute and just breathe: There’s a reason you hear this one all the time - it works! Slowing down your breathing clears your mind and lowers your blood pressure, making it easier for you to get back in the zone. While there are a ton of techniques to try, one we love is the 4-7-8 breath. First, you clear all the air from your lungs and then inhale through your nose while you count to four. Hold your breath for 7, and then exhale through your mouth to a count of 8. Simple and effective. When you’re managing your stress, you automatically look more professional. Let us know how these tips worked for you in the comments below! 3 Tips to Spring Cleaning Your WorkplaceSpring is here, Spring is here! And there’s something about the warmer weather that just makes all of us at The Brand Girls want to get organized. According to Inc, a clean workspace can “create an environment in which people can improve their performance and productivity,” and The Brand Girls team couldn’t agree more! Kick off your office spring cleaning with our 3 easy tips. ![]() Use it or lose it: Getting into a ‘use it or lose it’ mindset helps us keep what we really use and throw away what we don’t. The longer you stay at your job, the more stuff you’re going to collect over the years. If it’s not something you use often, file it away or toss it. ![]() Cut back on paper copies: Are you one of those people who always has papers allllll over their desk? How many of those documents do you also have on your computer? Unless you really need printed copies for your first job or internship , stick to digital and cutting back on paper copies. Don’t forget to recycle (or shred) any copies you already have! ![]() Scrubba dub dub: How many times a day do you touch your desk? Keyboard? Phone? Mouse? Germs live all over these surfaces, so bring in your disinfecting wipes and clean everything thoroughly. Pro tip: Wipe down your desk and phone weekly! We feel better already, don’t you? Check out more Tuesday Tips from The Brand Girls here. Written By: Jasmine Williams
Brand Girls Client + BG Blog Intern https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/ 3 WAYS TO STAY OUT OF OFFICE DRAMAIt’s so exciting when you walk into a new office for the first time. There is so much work being done by passionate people, and they want YOU to be a part of it. Unfortunately, having a group of people working together 40 hours a week means there is always some kind of drama. While this is no fun, we at BG have some tips to make sure you know how to navigate these situations. ![]() Don’t talk smack: If you get roped into this kind of drama, it is so easy to just go along with whatever the person you’re talking to is saying, but that is an easy way to make enemies. It is okay to disagree with a choice one of your coworkers makes, but that can be done professionally and entirely to their face as part of an open discussion. Keep people’s personal business out of it. ![]() Don’t be exclusive in your professional relationships: In any office, there are bound to be coworkers that you become closer to than others. However, don’t let the fact that you’re besties with one person make you exclude another. Just because you are not close with a coworker doesn’t mean that you should give them a reason to think poorly of you. ![]() If you can - just stay out of it: Tying back to tip one, it is so so easy to just go along with it when you hear someone else engaging in gossip. However, you are much more likely to gain respect from EVERYONE in the office if you don’t take part. The best thing you can do is change the subject and move on from that negative conversation.. |
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