Thursday, January 19, 2012

The Skirt Suit...

So let me paint a picture for you:  If you crack open Eureka Middle School's 95-96' yearbook, you'll quickly spot a cute little girl on the front row (so placed because she's notably short).  She's wearing an all-light pink outfit to match a colossal pink bow which is almost hidden by impressively fluffed bangs.  She's even sporting fold-over white socks with lace trimming, and the lace skims right along the top of her white Keds. So precious.  Fast forward a few years (ok, about 15 years), and that little girl is nearing the end of her first year of a prestigious MBA program.

What happened to that adorable "girly-girl" who, even in the 5th grade, still loved Barbies and experimenting with makeup?  Wasn't she supposed to be a Marine Biologist or Horse Caretaker?  Or even a Wedding Dress Designer?? Oh, don't worry- she's still there... only she, or rather, I.... have traded light pink overalls for a skirt suit.

So why the blog?  Partly because it's an experiment for my Social Media Strategy class.  But mostly because I want to tell all business women- you don't need to become something you're not to have an influence in the business world.  Just because there are a lot of men doesn't mean you need to change your behavior or adopt certain characteristics to fit in or be acknowledged.  It is possible to be feminine and a business woman. This blog will be dedicated to observations, advice, and thoughts of how men and women can work better together in a business setting.

Of note: There are many with strong opinions about women and gender roles in the work place.  In these posts, it is never my wish to offend.  I believe if you are working to be your best self, and you embrace who you are, the world will do the same.  Lastly, self-respect, and respect for others, can make all the difference in the world.

My sign off signature from now on: Be classy and kind, and you'll earn the respect you deserve.

5 comments:

  1. I love it! I know you're ridiculously busy, but if the day ever comes that you're not, you still need to read Wendy Shalit's books. So so up your alley.

    On another note: I bought my last Barbie in 8th grade.... super cool.

    I love you!!

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  2. Um, you are hilarious!! I loved this! I read it last week when you sent the link but totally forgot to comment!

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  3. You are woman -- we hear you roar. Your comments make me think about how I find myself returning back to those dreams & ideals I once had many, many years ago, and now those are my current dreams. It seems the older we get -- the more convoluted we make life. I yearn for those simple perspectives and ideals I had so long ago.

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  4. I absolutely agree that the time has come for women to be themselves in business and not be obsessed with "wearing the pants." I would argue that it makes people trust a woman leader more if she is real with honest - it's okay to show a little emotion in the boardroom once in a while. ;)

    I look forward to reading your blog!

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    1. Thanks Melanie!!! I'm so glad you agree- it's exactly how I feel!

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