Hello December? OMG, 2015 is Over!?

Hello December!
Can you believe 2015 is almost over?! Me neither!!! It went by so fast. It's already the time of year when people reflect on all the ups and downs of the last 12 months and start thinking about what opportunities the new year will bring.

When I think of the year, especially the last three months, I think about the amazing strides we've made with CMB. We've raised our visibility tremendously this year. Since September, we've launched our mentor program, hosted two webinars, organized fabulous meet-ups and made strong connections with other lady boss millennials. **happy dance**

We had so much fun hosting this meet-up with
Marissa Germain's blog, "The Millennial Takeover!"

It has been amazing and if you follow us, you've seen my face all over these events. I love it all- our programs and services, our mission, networking- I'm always reppin CMB, hard! What some people don't know, is I also work just as diligently and passionately for my full-time position, in human resources.

While growing CMB, I've been grinding just as hard at my 9-5, implementing new processes and tightening up others. I expose myself to every learning opportunity because I want to both be better at my job, and use the knowledge to help my CMB community. It has been a wonderful learning experience but guess what?!

I was exhausted!

Don't get me wrong, I realized committing to this Hustlapreneur life would be a lot of work. Balancing a full-time corporate job, a part-time stylist position, and managing a nonprofit keeps me very busy honey. 

Photo cred: https://ronetheboxhouston.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/boss.jpg?w=300&h=225

What I didn't realize is my ambition and drive for excellence had taken priority over my personal life. In 2015, I can count on one hand how many times I've gone to brunch with my girlfriends. My calls home have decreased, and I feel that love and laughter missing from my everyday life. Shame on me. Family and friends are the cornerstone of my success. They are so important and instrumental in my life. I need to prioritize them as I do my professional life. 

In 2015, I focused on gratitude and being thankful for all the experiences God blessed me with - the good and bad. In 2016, I want to focus on being present. I want to be more present with my family, friends, future friends and colleagues. Seizing the day and appreciating life's moments will be the focus of my life next year. 

What are you looking forward to in 2016? Let's hold each other accountable and help each other achieve our goals. Join our mailing list so we can keep in touch. I want to be more engaged with millennial women in 2016 so expect opportunities to meet-up and talk about our work life, the struggle, millennial fashion and more!

<3

xoxo,
Courtney
www.thecolormeb.com

Why #BlackGirlMagic Will Change the World

What exactly is #blackgirlmagic ? 

Clarissa Joan poses this question and other inquiries of race and womanhood in her article, "Black Girl Magic Defined: Do You Put Your Race before womanhood" in Madame Noire.

When I first saw the hashtag, I knew #blackgirlmagic was all about our limitless strength and power. Every day, I’m in awe of the goals, accomplishments and grace of black women --

My BFF, a Nigerian American, finished law school and is using her degree to start a natural hair care and education empire- #blackgirlmagic

Another bestie started her PhD in 2010 when we finished college; and despite roadblocks, she's defending this Friday- #blackgirlmagic I'll be there giving her a standing ovation because we celebrate each other - #blackgirlmagic

Me and my BFF at our first event collaboration! #naturalhaireverywhere
Check her out at whollyhair.com

Are black women more black than woman though? Personally, I'd say no. Historically and socially, black women have had a subordinate status in both their gender and racial social groups. During the women's movement in the early 20th century, white women advocated and benefited. The needs of black women were not included. Many black women including myself and Alice Walker have felt ostracized in the feminist movement and identify more as a womanist. Being a woman is incredible but as a black woman, I don't see myself in the American feminist movement. Furthermore, historically and currently, black women take a backseat in the fight for black rights and liberties. An example is President Obama's My Brother's Keeper initiative. Don't get me wrong, it is an incredible program and much needed; but black girls are not included.

We will support and contribute to the program’s success though because that's #blackgirlmagic. In both our identity groups, our needs are secondary, so we've learned (and are taught) to create our own opportunities and support each other through it. This past Friday, I experienced an amazing #blackgirlmagic moment.  

Marissa Germain of the Millennial Takeover and I hosted a happy hour in Washington, DC for millennial women. Most of us did not know each other but as soon as we met, it was like we were old friends. We laughed, talked, shared our weekly accomplishments and really enjoyed ourselves. I left the meet-up feeling inspired and motivated. 

A little grainy but you see the magic :)!!!

It was really encouraging to spend time with women that understand and empathize with my journey. Since I was on such sisterhood high after the event, I didn't learn of the Paris attacks until Saturday morning.

Heartbreaking. Devastating. Evil. My heart goes out to everyone affected by these horrific crimes. I pray the culprits are brought to justice, by any means necessary. 

However, I'm happy I learned of the news after experiencing a night of #blackgirlmagic. Being around these women reminded me that we have the power to change the world. At a time when we're consistently seeing unprecedented acts of violence and terrorism, we can be the change we want to see. How? By continuing to be exemplary role models in our community and at home. As mothers, aunts, sisters, girlfriends and cousins, we will continue to show love and how to love to the next generation and our peers. As successful career women, we'll teach the next generation tenacity, perseverance and how to be a contributing member of society. 

We'll do this with grace and integrity because that's what we do. That's #blackgirlmagic. Our CMB community it's full of #blackgirlmagic and I'd love for you to join it. Click here to join our mailing list!

3 Things to STOP on Job Interviews

There are so many jobs available right now! I see scores of postings added to job boards every day. If you're thinking about leaving a job or if you're a recent grad that has not found work yet, continue searching because there are positions for you! If you're at the interviewing phase, congrats! Now it's time to let your amazing, confident, hard-working personality shine fiercely. We talked about interview tips a few weeks back on "Krystal & Courtney's Career Chat." You can watch it here. You can also download "10 Really Hard Interview Questions Answered" when you join our mailing list!

www.thecolormeb.com

 

I want to elaborate on a topic we discussed on a couple weeks back. These no-no's apply to everyone, but I had millennial women of color in mind when I crafted it. Read these tips and make sure you're going into job interviews with your mind on getting that offer!

1. Stop coming unprepared Friends, it is 2015 and recruiters expect a lot more from you than the ability to talk about your qualifications. You have access to the job description, the company website, employee blogs, and the company's social media stream. In addition to your own qualifications be prepared to discuss

• why you specifically want to work at that company

• how you see yourself growing in the position, at that company. Are you looking for a promotion in 2 years? Are you trying to leave in a year? Be able to articulate a plan for your future at the company because these are things recruiters want to know

• how you're a great team player. You should have examples of how you work well with a multitude of people. You should also have examples of how you overcome conflict and obstacles with your team. We had great conversation about this on the periscope broadcast.

2. Don't apologize for your confidence and stop complaining about your haters

Job interviews are the time to "toot your own horn." You have to market yourself in a way that the company see value in hiring you. Don't apologize for your confidence or belittle your achievements because it shows lack of confidence. You're awesome! If you don't think so, email me and we'll make a list together! It's ok if you're a recent grad and most of your experience is in student leadership. It's just as impactful and amazing. Proudly share those experiences. As you're sharing the positive, you might remember some of the less positive moments of your work experiences. You might have had a crappy boss or a really negative experience. Be careful not to get too much in the details of that experience. Instead, focus on how you persevered and displayed tenacity.

Don't apologize, own your fabulousness and rock that interview!

3. Stop being too relaxed - #sorrynotsorry I love being a millennial. I love being part of a generation that ignored society's tendency to function in "black and white." We like to live in "the grey." When it comes to interviews, specifically in corporate america or a professional organization, dress code is clear. You should dress for the job you want. I always go in with collar, more than likely a blazer. I also wear minimal jewelry and will have my hair pulled back. I'm not saying you have to dress like me, but I strongly recommend you leave casual clothing at home and bring professional attire to the interview. Research the company ahead of time and figure out what their culture is. You don't have to spend an arm and a leg either. H&M has great separates to mix and match. Ideel.com is also a great site for affordable, super cute and professional attire. 

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xoxo,
Courtney
www.thecolormeb.com

CMB 10 #WorkFashion Picks for Fall - Under $50!

I love fall. 

As it finally starts to cool down in NYC, and I smell pumpkin spice everywhere, I'm excited about the season. I'm especially excited about revamping my work wardrobe with these fun #workfashion picks!

Work fashion is a lot more fun in fall because you can play with lots of layers and accessories; and, the weather is a lot kinder to your shoes. I spent an afternoon going through my favorite stores and picking cute, comfortable and professional pieces for the millennial woman's wardrobe. Each piece is under $50 so it fits the college student's budget too. 

Do you have any of these #workfashion finds? Tag us when you wear it! We want to shout you out on instagram @TheColorMeB !

1. Window Pane Infinity Scarf from NordstromRack.com
I'm loving this fly pink scarf from Nordstrom Rack! Their scarves are so beautiful and affordable. This pink scarf would look great with black, browns, greys, brighter colors, skirts, pants, blazer or no blazer. Cost: $12.97 ! I like it for work because it's one of those scarves you can leave at the office and it matches with everything!

Window Pane Infinity Scarf from NordstromRack.com

2. H&M Sleeveless Dress
This style of dress is great for the working millennial woman because it looks great at work and transitions nicely to after-work fun. This rich navy blue is flattering to many skin tones and body types. The blue also matches well with different accessories. I'd wear it with some big stud earrings and a power watch. And big hair of course. 

H&M Sleeveless Dress

3. Express Studs, Online Exclusive - 3 for $30!

Check out the spectacular earrings! They're glamorous! Express has a lovely assortment of fashion earrings. There are studs, jackets, hoops and more included in this promotion. 

Black Stone Ear Jacket

Gold Cut-Out Hoop Earring

Gold Fireball Post Earrings

4. H&M Ankle Boots
I love this style shoe for work. It's so comfortable and it gives you the extra height you get with high heels - but way less pain! I'd like a pair in black, brown, grey, and navy blue and in leather. I'll be getting these next for my fall wardrobe. They're also super affordable - $34.99!

H&M Ankle Boots

5. Old Navy V-Neck Sweater
Every store has fall sweaters. I chose this v-neck from Old Navy because it is on sale for $16. When it comes to #workfashion, I try not to spend too much money on sweaters, blouses and skirts because I get sooo many of them! It doesn't make much sense to splurge on $50+ sweaters when I'm trying to get one every color! Go for something comparable and less expensive like these comfortable, cute sweaters.

Old Navy Lightweight V-Neck Sweater

6. Old Navy Blazer to match!I also suggest a lightweight sweater because it's easy to layer and match with weather changes. I want this blazer so I can wear the sweater and some cute booties with it to work, on 5th Avenue (seems like the perfect outfit for it right?!). 

Old Navy Jersey Blazers

7. A cute watch!

Target always delivers. If you're looking for a fashionably chic watch, under $50, check out Target's accessories. I like this watch, and they have a bunch more affordable styles. If you recall from our Work Wardrobe Essential post, I mentioned how having a watch, at work, is important because it shows you "have the time" and you're on a schedule. Invest in a power watch today. I'm eyeing this one at Vince Camuto.

Peugeot gold-tone watch, $49.99

8. Pencil Skirts from NY & Co. - $21.97 - $49.99

Yessssssss! NY & Co! You know every fashionista loves a good sale! They have select pencil skirts with 50% off right now, including the skirt pictured below! Again, skirts are great because they're comfortable in the cold + warm fall weather. You can also add a pair of cute tights if it gets really chilly. I would wear this skirts with a simple black top and some poppin jewelry.

NY & Co Pencil Skirts

9. Hair Accessories from Nordstrom Rack

Year-around, I have those mornings where my hair will not do anything besides fall neatly (kinda) into a bun. I need these fun ponytail holders to keep it cute (and lazy)!

France Luxe Bow Ponytail Holder

France Luxe Bow Ponytail Holder

10. Cute Rainboots!Here's an affordable option for your rainboots! Living in NYC, the weather can be pretty cruel to rainboots and shoes in general. Sperry is a great brand, and their rainboots are $49.99 at Nordstrom Rack. I really like these because they don't look like rainboots. I'm always searching for a pattern that makes the shoe look less rubbery and more like a chic boot. Aren't these fabulous?!

I love talking about affordable #workfashion for millennial women! Do you have anything to add to our top 10 list? Tweet us at @thecolormeb !

Join our mailing list for updates on our blog , programs and services,+ exclusive access to my periscope tutorials !

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

Confidence at Work: 8 things NOT to say

As bold and fierce as we are, we sometimes have the tendency to unwittingly undermine our own confidence. This comes out in the way we speak - little subtle phrases that we use unwittingly signal to our audience that we lack confidence. Here are 8 things NOT to say if you want to sound more confident and assertive at work: 

1. DON'T: end a sentence with "...if that makes sense"

WHY NOT? Underlying this statement is a hint to your audience that you don't really know what you are talking about. The implication is "I know I'm being unclear so you probably don't understand what I am saying."

INSTEAD:  Be very purposeful and clear in your statements. If someone needs clarification, let them be the one to ask. Or you can say, "let me know if you need further clarification?" 

2. DON'T: use the word "JUST"

...as in "I just wanted to know if you reviewed that document yet" or "just wondering if you could meet with me today" 

WHY NOT? The word "just" is a permission word. Using it makes you sound apologetic (and weak) when you don't have a reason to be. 

INSTEAD: Eliminate the "J word" altogether. "Please let me know if you are able to meet with me today" makes you look way more confident and assertive. 

3.  DON'T: say "I'm not good at..." or "I suck at that"

WHY NOT? As women, there are already so many messages out there about why we are not as good. Don't feed into that. 

INSTEAD: Draw attention to your strengths. If you actually do suck at something, say "I don't have experience in that," and then highlight your ability to learn it or desire to improve. 

4. DON'T: say "This may be wrong , but..."

WHY NOT? You already lost credibility for anything that comes out of your mouth after this phrase. Again, you are highlighting your lack of confidence.

INSTEAD: Of course, it would be best to fact-check before engaging in conversations. But sometimes you're in a situation where that isn't possible. Try to only speak on things you are confident about. If you have a hint of uncertainty, you can say "I'll make sure to double check this, but..."

5. DON'T: Use Excuses

WHY NOT? Excuses are the tools of the incompetent. And you are not incompetent.

INSTEAD: Try to avoid having to come up with an excuse altogether. If you find yourself needing to explain something, be firm and offer alternative solutions.

6. DON'T: Be Silent

WHY NOT? This is passive communication. Even though you said nothing, your audience might perceive that you don't have an opinion or you are not confident that your voice matters.

INSTEAD: Speak up! One caveat here: sometimes less is more. But you definitely don't want to be silent. Your thoughts and input are important. 

7. DON'T: use "umm", "uh" or "like"

WHY NOT? This is a tough one. We are all, uhh, guilty of, like, using these words. It makes your speech less smooth and less clear.

INSTEAD: Practice not using these words, even in casual conversations. Speak more slowly. It's OKAY to take a minute to think before you respond, so take your time and make sure your statements flow well.

8. DON'T: Avoid eye contact (I know this isn't a phrase but it is nonverbal communication)

WHY NOT: Eye contact is one of the most important, yet underestimated, communication tools. 

INSTEAD: Hold your head up and look your audience in the eye. But don't be weird about it. One trick I've learned is to look at the middle of their forehead.



By Christyl Wilson
Guest Contributor


Christyl is a currently pursuing a PhD in developmental psychology at Georgia State University. She is also a program manager at www.cinnamongirl.org.

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CMB Item of the Week - Cute Booties for Fall!

Hello everyone!!!

Now that Labor Day is over and the pumpkin spice lattes are available, it's time to start buying new #workfashion for the fall! I'm so excited to rack up on autumn-colored booties, scarves and sweaters. This week's CMB Item of the Week is from Nordstrom Rack!

Ladies, Nordstrom Rack has so many nice booties, UNDER $90! I chose these 14th & Union booties to feature because they're super versatile and easy to match with a myriad of outfits. These booties look great with tights, leggings and skinny jeans, as well as just about any and every color!

Nordstrom Rack also has really nice scarves and matching hats for under $15. If you want an affordable, professionally-chic wardrobe this fall, I highly recommend looking at Nordstrom Rack's site. I'll also share the fun finds I pick up from there. 

Check back tomorrow for pictures of my new #workfashion finds from Old Navy! I'll post them here and wear them on my Periscope broadcasts. Download the app and follow me @courtney_ball6 so you don't miss it! 

Have a wonderful week!

-Courtney

Click here to join the CMB mailing list and receive career advice, #workfashion tips and more!

14th & Union, Kimber Bootie

Even cuter in grey!

Join our mailing list for updates on our blog , programs and services,+ exclusive access to my periscope tutorials !

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

3 Things You Need in Your Next Interview!

Let's talk about everyone's favorite topic - interviews! Ok, probably not your favorite thing to do, but everyone experiences some form of an interview. For college and career women, interviewing for a job is a popular one. 

It can be a nerve-racking experience but it doesn't have to be. As an HR pro/recruiter, I'll tell you a secret- an interview is simply a conversation. You and the recruiter agree on a time and setup a meeting, similar to your other meetings. You come prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you're good for the job. For the most part, the recruiter enters the meeting with the intention of finding the right candidate for the job. 

What happens when you're in the interview together? You TALK! You're having a mature, professional conversation. To rock this interview, remember to bring the most important piece- your confidence. You're reading this blog so I know you're smart, organized and focused. Your experience is robust and compatible to the position. I know you'll have your resume memorized like your favorite Beyoncé song, so when you answer the questions, really go for it! Tell the interviewer about your accomplishments and experiences with pride and integrity.

You can also show your unique experience. 2nd thing to remember is a hard copy of your resume and a professional portfolio. Yes, you sent your resume via email. The recruiter can print it out and probably will print it out. However, bringing your resume is classic professionalism and it's a kind gesture. Your professional portfolio can be emailed or brought in, if appropriate. For example, my 9-5 job is in HR. When applying to a different job, I will send a recruiter a link to CMB's website because it highlights experience not included on my resume. Graphic designers may bring in a portfolio to share. Interviews are not the time to hold back and be shy about your experience, especially as a recent grad. Did you complete a branding strategy for a small business during your capstone project in school? Did you write a policy brief in your political science course? Before an interview, think of the requirements and responsibilities for the position and make a list of all your experiences that would be helpful to mention. Then, practice answering some questions you’re sure to get. 

Check out the episode of “Krystal & Courtney’s Career Chat” that covers interviews. We include sample questions and how to answer them.

You have to look super cute for your interview! 3rd thing to bring is an amazing outfit! When you look good, you feel good. When I'm feeling my outfit, you can't tell me nothing! My confidence is at an all-time high. Next time you have an interview, put on your favorite professionally-chic outfit or buy a new one. If money is funny, no problem. Call your best friend, and borrow something from her. When you get to her house, discuss a hairstyle that will be on point, for the occasion. You can also practice a couple interview questions with her.

We want to do a webinar about interviews! Would you be interested? What difficult interview questions would you like me to cover?! Let me know in the comments!

For more information about career development, networking and work fashion, go to our website at www.thecolormeb.com and join our mailinglist!

CMB Item of the Week: $15 Old Navy Pencil Skirts!

Happy Monday everyone!!

Thank you so much for all of your positive back over the last week! My article, "What's a Hustlapreneur? 5 Tips for Succeeding in the Workplace as a Millennial Woman," was published in Bustle magazine last week, and I've received soooo many messages of kind words. It feels great and I'm elated that the article is helping millennial women navigate work life.

Over the weekend, I came across this steal at Old Navy. Check out these super cute and versatile pencil skirts! They are only $15 each! I also got 35% off! 

Old Navy is having a Labor Day sale this weekend too which means it's a GREAT time to find some work fashion pieces at a really affordable cost! Will you check it out?

I'll post a picture of the outfit I wear this week, with the skirt on our instagram. You can find us at @TheColorMeB and on our website!

UPDATE - I wore this skirt to our first networking event! I posted pics on our facebook and instagram and got soooooooo many compliments! 

Join our mailing list for updates on our blog , programs and services,+ exclusive access to my periscope tutorials !

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

Old Navy - Women's Patterned Pencil Skirts!

LOVE!

CMB Item of the Week: Perfect little green dress :)

Happy Monday everyone!
I got this dress last week and had to share this excellent find! I spent my lunch break perusing the H&M sales rack, looking for a couple cheap dresses that paired well with a cardigan and were just long enough to wear to the office. It's still sooooo hot in NYC, and finding weather-appropriate and work-appropriate clothes has been hard.

Thankfully, the rich green in this dress caught my eye immediately. It's fun but also professional and chic. 

H&M Textured-knit dress

Let's be clear. The dress looked much longer hanging up. I bought it without trying it on because it was only $17.99! Can't beat that. The color is also super versatile. This is cool for a summer evening out for drinks with friends, followed by more cocktails at a chill lounge. 

But this green! It's perfect for a brisk fall day. I'll take these booties, or maybe some brown booties. If I'm feeling really jazzy, I'd grab some patterned tights too. 

(That's really living on the wild side for me. TWO patterned pieces in one outfit?! #yolo)

After I bought this dress, I hung it up and was so excited to wear it the next day. I got up that morning and put it on. Yup, just as I suspected. The front was long enough but the back was losing a fight with my backside. It was too short to wear to the office. Dammit.

What was I to do? I had 5 minutes left before I needed to leave home for the subway. I still had to make lunch, get my hair together and pack my purse. I grabbed a pair of long leggings (Target) and this necklace from Stella & Dot. I really like this necklace because it's a 3-in-1. I decided to wear one necklace and these studs.

When I finally put everything together, I liked it! Once I got to the office, I switched to some black leather flats (not pictured). 

Outfit plus a twist-out :)

Great pic of the Fortuna necklace.

Fun because I'm living for taking pics in cute outfits for yall!

What's your favorite new item of the week?

Join our mailing list for updates on our blog , programs and services,+ exclusive access to my periscope tutorials !

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

CMB Item of the Week - Stackable Rings for $19!

Happy Monday! 

This week's item of the week is super versatile and perfect for your wardrobe as we transition to fall. 

I LOVE these Stella & Dot stackable rings. These rings are sterling silver. Yes, I said ringSSS. When you purchase this set for $19, you get three rings! Another reason I love it! I like to wear super cute rings when my outfit is a bit more dressed down/plain. 

Ann stacked rings by Stella & Dot. Only $19! 

Stella & Dot has tons of really cute and trendy jewelry. These rings are great for many work environments. You can also dress them up with a pearl bracelet or a nice statement necklace. 

I also wanted to feature this piece because Stella & Dot is all about women empowerment through business. S&D hires women to sell their products while also building their own empire. Check them out!

Also, I hope you LOVE our new blog and website as much as I do! Tweet us @thecolormeb with suggestions and feedback. 

We'd love to hear from you :)

Super cute as one ring too!!

CMB How To: Job Offer

Hey everyone!
"CMB How-To's" are email templates to help you communicate specific work situations. Here's the newest template - "CMB How-To: Job Offer."

Obviously, there is a lot to consider when accepting a job offer. You can also reference the CMB How-To on salary negotiation (below). I suggest scheduling a time so you can review your entire compensation package and, if necessary, review expectations and responsibilities. I think that's best to do in person or over the phone, so start with this very brief email. Also, you'll notice I use "thank you" as a salutation. You can use what you deem appropriate.

We've given all the templates a new look. Check them out and tweet us topics at @thecolormeb!

Informational Interview

Resigning

Salary Negotiation

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A few of our CMB Mentors shared their wisdom and experiences during the #SheLeads2016 virtual conference. Our facilitators shared tips on networking, taking on leadership roles at work, self-care and more! Sign-up here and get access to some of these fantastic workshops!