CMB How-To, Email Templates!

Sometimes I struggle with finding the right words to say in a professional email. Whether I'm delivering serious news or crafting a brief unbiased summary of a situation, at times, I struggle to find the right words to use. If the subject matter is going to impact my job/job performance in a major way, I will run the email by a couple friends and mentors first. It would be awesome to have a resource to write the emails for me!

I decided to start "CMB How-To's" to help other young professionals find the right words. I've started with these three common occurences. Resigning, asking for an informational interview, and negotiating your starting salary are three topics we all encounter as young professionals. These slides provide a template for you to start and summarize the conversation. 

Do you struggle with any other topics? Tell me in the comments and look out for your suggestion on our website!

CMB How-To's: Resigning email

CMB How-To's: Informational interview email

CMB How-To's: Salary negotiation email

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

Adding Self-Care to Your Daily Routine

I've always been a multi-tasker. In high school and college, I participated in countless activities and held many leadership positions. In graduate school and now in my professional life, I give my all to work. I volunteer for every opportunity presented to me. I try to connect with all my colleagues to increase my network. My mind and body are constantly on the go, living my hustalpreneur life.

I haven't had time to write a blog in over a month. No doubt, I've had content because work life has been in overdrive. In addition to my 9-5 being crazy busy, @TheColorMeB is gaining more traction every day, and I just became a stylist for Stella & Dot. 

I am elated with my newest purchases from Stella & Dot. Check my page here.

My schedule isn't to blame for my inability to write, however. I have carved out time to sit down and write, and even with my light and sweet coffee, I couldn't muster the focus to write. Something has been off. I haven't been eating right, haven't really had an appetite. I've been worried about finding a place in the middle of summer in NYC and moving my apartment and two dogs.

Then it hit me. I was stressed out.

The feeling of stress

I had been waking up with worry on mind. Worry about my moving situation, my personal life, my work situation, my new opportunities - it was overwhelming. The smallest thing would make me feel this great sense of anxiety. It was exhausting. 

I went to visit my family, in San Francisco, and realized what was going on. My friends and family noticed physical and emotional changes in me. I noticed the changes too. While at home, I called on my spiritual sisters and mother. I allowed myself to be vulnerable with them, and really got to the bottom of all the anxiety. More importantly, I went to church and gave all of my worries to God. 

Self-Care

I always rely on my faith to get me through trying times. While at home, I also realized how absent God is in many facets of my life in NYC. I made a commitment to change that. I made a commitment to stop worrying and start taking care of myself. While I was starting to thrive professionally, I was neglecting to feed my spirit, nourish my body and rest my mind.

Here are 5 specific things I've committed to adding to my daily routine:

1. Finding a church home

Joining a church where I actually live is very important because to foster and cultivate my faith, I must join a fellowship. Joining a church provides you with a place to worship and find others that can support you in your trials. I enjoy going to church because it's a chance to connect with other black women that understand me and can suggest spiritual coping mechanisms to overcome. 

The brutal winter in NYC had a lot to do with my stress. Snow every week made it difficult to explore possible churches. While at home, I found a church that broadcasts their weekly sermons on their website! It has been a God-send.

2. Eating three meals a day

For the past few months, it has been a struggle to commit to eating three meals a day. I'll have a large coffee for breakfast and forget to eat more until lunchtime. For lunch, I'll have a helping of spaghetti and water. I snack on candy bars in the late afternoon. When I get home, if I'm not too tired, I'll have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. That's so unhealthy!

My challenge is three meals a day! Pinterest is my best friend for this one. On Sundays, I make my lunch for the week in my slow-cooker. It's usually chili or chicken and vegetables. Try this sticky wing recipe. To accompany the slow-cooker dish, I make a big pot of rice. Still working on incorporating more vegetables in my lunch. For my dinner, I try to keep it simple too. I'll make pasta, and load it with my favorite vegetables. Spinach and cabbage are great vegetables to quickly make also.

#pinterestwinning

3. Alone time

Working full-time, having a coupe side hustles, being in a relationship and being a dog mom of two requires a lot of my time. I challenge myself to take time to do things for myself. Another challenge is being more financially responsible, so I'm not going to start splurging. I bought supplies for a DIY pedicure. When it's sunny outside, I wake up early in the morning and go for a walk. My alone time is all about taking the time to embrace the simple things that make me smile. Add that to the top of your priority list.

Treat yourself! Every day! Maybe not a pedi every day but something funners :)

4. Financial responsibility

I'd be a lot less stressed about money, if I took more time to be proactive. I usually make my budget for two weeks and spend until I get paid again. That's clearly not working. I needed to wake up, and realize to be a legitimate entrepreneur and businesswoman, I need to get my personal finances together. Instead of worrying about paying this bill and that loan, I'm focusing on financial goals. 

I use Mint.com to keep track of my monthly bills. Those amounts are stagnant. Rather than focusing on all the money going out, I've cut all unnecessary bills. I started prioritizing better and leveraging the leftover money to save and invest. I'm saving to move to a better apartment. I'm also saving for a big summer birthday party!

5. Celebrate yourself!

My birthday will be a chance to celebrate months of progress on my self-care challenge. You have to remember to create opportunities to celebrate yourself and your accomplishments. My boyfriend's birthday is the day before mine so it will be a joint birthday party and celebration for both of us. 

Self-care is important to remember because without it, it's hard to appreciate life's gifts. We can easily get caught up in the hustle and bustle of urban living. We shouldn't do that. We have to remember to take care of ourselves - body, mind and spirit.

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

P.S.

Celebrating yourself can include treating yourself to something beautiful like the ring above. Check out my page!

My stylist page!

Networking + Girl Bosses Mixer

On Sunday, I had the pleasure of joining Cotten Kandi Media company, as the host, for their Girl Bosses Networking event. 

@epiphanykendell @mieks_summerdove @cottenkandimedia @beautifulket

The event was absolutely amazing and inspiring.

Four millennial women shared career and life advice with attendees, while I served as host. We discussed the different industries our speakers represent and heard tips about how to be successful. It was a beautiful event because all of us were so supportive, knowledgeable and willing to share with others.

There were moments when I had to stop and reflect on the strength and power that was in the room. Between the speakers and our audience, we successfully created a safe space where everyone felt comfortable being vulnerable and supporting each other. As women of color in professional industries, the ability to do this is so important because oftentimes, women struggle to find these spaces in their work life.

Of course some companies and industries are better than others, but with this event, we wanted to show young women that the support is there. We also stressed the importance and benefits of networking. Hearing "networking" can be intimidating for some, but really, networking is simply intentional communication. Networking is attending events like the Girl Bosses event and connecting with someone in your field. It doesn't have to be super serious or formal. If you're nervous about how to "network" make sure you employ these three simple tips.

1. Remember their name and their relevance to you. 

A tip I learned very early in my career (maybe 13 years old) is when I collect someone's business card, I write one interesting fact about them on the back of it. When I'm doing follow-up, I send an email to the new contact and mention something we discussed. Now, as an adult and a businessowner, I make sure to include how we can collaborate. Try it!

2. Attend networking events! 

There are companies (like @thecolormeb) and people that host these events to get young people talking and engaged. Go to eventbrite.com and search for events in your area. On instagram, search the hashtags. If you're shy about speaking with people, this is a great place to start because you can search for events that will make you feel comfortable. Also, some of these events are FREE. You just have to find them.

3. Be yourself. 

Like I said previously, networking is simply intentional communication. There's no script, no formula - just do you. Talking to someone in a c-suite position or a managerial position can be scary, but they are people just like me and you. Also, if someone is not a nice person, chances are their employer wouldn't send them to recruiting or networking events, so don't worry about that. If you need help overcoming nerves, try practicing with a friend. You can also shoot me an email at cmb.nyc1@gmail.com. Happy to help!

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

Girl Bosses Networking Event

"Girl Bosses Networking Mixer"

Ms. Toni, Founder of Cotten Kandi Media, LLC

Sunday, March 22, 2015 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM (EDT)

Cambria Heights, New York

Want to network with women who've inspired you? Our Girl Bosses (How She Did It): Networking Mixer will bring a panelist of women from various backgrounds in media and journalism, finance, public relations and business consulting in one room. Here's your opportunity to not only meet and mingle, but to learn from some of the women you aspire to be like.

Get your tickets here now!

My Natural Hair in Corporate America

Without fail, every day, I take a moment in the morning and make sure my nappy hair is ready for the work day.

Please excuse me if you find the word "nappy" uncomfortable or offensive. I don't intend to offend anyone. However, my hair is happily nappy, thick, curly and kinky. I am so thankful and grateful that I work with highly intelligent people that embrace and love my hairdo. 

To some folks, this probably doesn't seem like a big deal. For me, someone that has been treated adversely because of my natural blackness, acceptance of my natural hair at work is huge. I love feeling comfortable and not worrying about my supervisor staring at my tightly coiled curls.

When I started my job in December 2013, I straightened my hair every day.

Ain't nobody got time.

I wanted to make sure I was "appropriate" for the office. Millennials in corporate America are well-aware of our age, seniority and position in the workplace (because countless articles and baby boomers remind us daily). As a young woman of color, in corporate America, working in New York City, I wanted to put my best foot forward and set myself up for success. After two months, I was over it. I didn't have time to do that every morning, and it was hard on my thick hair. So what was I to do?

Coming to work with my big hair would already make me stand out. Wearing a weave was out because I've stopped paying hundred of dollars for hair. Don't have time for that either. I didn't want to approach my supervisor and risk turning a non-issue into an issue. 

So what to do?!

I asked my homegirls at work. They told me to be free. I did and everyone loved it. Now, I don't know if that will work in everyone's office but I do have a couple tips for you to consider:

1. What is your company's culture? Since having the come-to-Jesus moment with my homegirls, I decided that I'm comfortable straightening my hair if I ever have to interview for a job or become client-facing. I believe client interaction warrants changing your hair because you are now representing your company. Is your company culture business-professional? Or casual? Look around and talk to your peers. 

2. Is your hair distracting? My hair is big and nappy and I LOVE it. We sit in cubicles so my hair doesn't block anyone's view- I'm good. Now, if I were to dye it purple, people might turn their heads when I walk by. Just like you wouldn't wear a super tight pencil skirt with a donkey booty, you probably shouldn't wear your Cassie-shaved-on-the-side to the board meeting. If you're in San Francisco, at one of those cool millennial-run tech companies, DO IT!

3. Is it cute? No shade but make sure your hair is on point. There is no specific style you have to rock in the workplace. I'd be hypocrite if I said your hair has to be bone-straight; but I do think your hair should be like your outfit- on point and super cute :)

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

New Everything

2015 is the year of excellence. Over the last couple months, I've been saying "we're on the precipice of change." So many things are happening politically and socially in our cities, our country and globally; and millennials are involved and influential in this discourse. From the #blacklivesmatter movement to the upcoming presidential election, we are informed, opinionated and motivated to make change. Some call it idealistic, that's fine. I know communities can come together and make sustainable change. That's why I started my company.
 
And that's totally characteristic of the millennial generation right? We see a problem and we look beyond the black and white binaries of the world, and find a solution in "the grey." 2015 is our time.
 
We're trying NEW things! I look around my social and professional network, and my peers and I are switching it up and attempting to mitigate social problems created and exacerbated by institutional isms-racism, sexism, ageism, etc. We are taking the social justice theories taught to us in school and applying it to real world problems to find peace, safety and fun.

Ari Takata-Vasquez opened Viscera, a 3-D printed apparel company and storefront in Oakland, California. In addition to her products being fabulous and innovative, they're all made on the U.S. Perhaps her masters degree in urban planning from UC Berkeley influenced her decision to operate in and produce her pieces in the United States. She is combating some of the adverse effects of globalization and adding jobs to the city. She's also providing us with really cool, unique fashion!

Viscera Studio



Viscera Studio

Viscera Studio

Viscera Studio

Many of you know @TheColorMeB is involved with the 2015 Global Millennial Conference. GMC15 is a premiere conference for millennials, by millennials. GMC15 will focus on career and business development, as well as networking. Part of the reason conference producer, Amber Aziza, decided to develop the conference was to give the millennial generation an experience that fits their unique needs. The conference is a place for millennials to market their personal brand, to conduct business with other millennial game-changers, and to grow their network!

www.gmc15.com

www.gmc15.com

www.gmc15.com

Are you interested in attending the Global Millennial Conference, but you're unsure if it's right for you? Want to learn more from the Millennial Powerhouses that will attend, present, and perform at the conference?
Click here for more information

To cultivate peace and balance, a group of friends and I have decided to commit more time to nurturing our spiritual selves. We are going to read Purpose Drive Life by Rick Warren and discuss it together. Some young professionals have the opportunity to live their adult life near their family. Some of us have the opportunity to go far away. Nonetheless, you might go through a time in your early adult life where you lose touch with the institution that helped form your moral compass. That institution might have been family, church or a support group. We are starting this Bible study group to learn more about God's word, and also, to find support and solace in our girlfriends during these difficult times in society.



Purpose Driven Life

As my network grows, and I connect with more people in career consulting, I'm noticing a void in the industry. I've found so many wonderful women-run career fashion blogs. Awesome! I love it. However, it has been difficult to find women of color on these blogs. I am committed to finding more women of color that blog/post career advice and fashion tips. I am also stepping out of my comfort zone and creating my own content. Leading by example :)



@thecolormeb





@thecolormeb

@thecolormeb

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

The Precipice of a Movement, Hello 2015!

As I reflect on this year, I've realized it went by extremely fast! There were some amazing highs and utterly exhausting lows. Because 2013 was such a tough year for the black community with unbelievable headlines about heartbreaking events like Trayvon Martin’s killer being acquitted and the mysterious death of Kendrick Johnson, I dedicated 2014 to my community. 

Trayvon Martin

Kendrick Johnson

When it came to the greater community, 2014 was worse than 2013, however. My natural and Christian inclination to help my community brought many nights of pensive, anxious and somber feelings this year. In 2014, we saw the personification of the pain that Ferguson citizens and those that stand in solidarity with them, experience regularly.

I have refrained from discussing Ferguson or the Eric Garner verdict because I agree- burn it down, shut down Grand Central and the Westside Highway. My emotional, visceral response is one of anger and embarrassment. At 26, two degrees later, I understand what James Baldwin meant when he said, “to be a Negro in this country, and to be relatively conscious, is to be in a rage almost all the time." I have three nephews, a brother, and boyfriend at home that I could easily lose like the families of Michael Brown and Eric Garner lost their loved ones. To think, to even slightly imagine that I could lose them, and their killer walks, makes me sick.

In 2014, I spent a lot of time in prayer. I prayed for the families of victims of gun violence, especially the mothers that lost their children. The state of black women in America has been characterized by the stories of Janay Rice, #iamjada, Stephanie Moseley, and grieving mothers.

Janay Rice

#iamjada

There's so much to unpack with all these moments - spousal abuse, sexual assault, cyberbullying, suicide, etc. Each of these women experienced something terrible and had their stories broadcasted. These stories about black women are quite different than the stories about black men in the media this year. As a critical race scholar, I argue that one resounding theme of these 2014 headlines is #blacklivesmatter. Our voices, our lives, our bodies, our privacy – it all matters and should be respected at all times. I'm tired of the contention, apathy and ignorance towards that fact.

As I prepare to start 2015, it is hard to be optimistic. It’s hard to believe that real change involving community-police relations will happen when representatives from the NYPD blame the mayor and describe their relationship with the community as “in wartime.” It’s hard to believe that real change involving women and our bodies when Jada, after months of living through this horrific experience, still gets little support from her own community. It’s hard to be optimistic when media and society are constantly telling me that my life and community is not worth as much as others.

It’s hard to be optimistic, but it is easy to be motivated, passionate, angry, and most importantly, faithful. 2014 was a rough year, but we made it and gained wisdom and understanding. I’m going into 2015 with a new found awareness of what it is to be black in America and leveraging my power to help my community. 

The deaths and tragedies in the black community in 2014 started a dialogue that will facilitate change; and I want to be a visionary leading that charge. Thousands of people continue to congregate nationwide, in protest about police brutality. Thousands of people joined the #iamjada campaign via twitter and social media; and eventually the alleged perpetrators were apprehended. 

Millions March Los Angeles

Harvard Medical students "die-in"

We are at the precipice of the next great social movement, and now is the time to decide what your role will be in the movement. In 2014, I started my nonprofit to mitigate the cyclical social issues that millennial women of color endure. In 2015, I will continue to do great work with my organization. I will also make a conscious effort to use my organizational reach to spread love and positivity to our community.

What will you do in 2015 that will positively impact your community? Take a moment and fill in the blanks below, save it somewhere and make the conscious commitment to do it.

“In 2015, I will________________________________ to help the _____________ community.”

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB

10 Work Wardrobe Essentials!

When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you do better work. I feel exponentially more confident at work when I look fly. From my hair, to my accessories, to my outfit and of course, my shoes, I like to look suited and booted at work. I am dressing for the position I want, a potential networking opportunity; and, as Papa Pope would say, because "we have to be twice as good."

Building a full-blown, all seasons, flawless work wardrobe can be daunting and costly. I want to open my closet and see Ann Taylor and Banana Republic pieces. I also want to pay my student loans in a timely fashion; so I have learned to balance my financial priorities with my love for over-priced blouses.

To build your wardrobe, you should start with the essentials and slowly add your personal favorites. Here are our 10 favorite work wardrobe essentials. You probably already have some of these pieces. Great! If you’re wearing one this week, post it and tag us in it @thecolormeb!

1. WORKING watch

This is the watch I wear to work every day. It matches pretty much anything I wear. It is fashionable and professional. Wearing a working watch also let’s your colleagues and supervisors know that you are aware of time and (hopefully) punctual! MK and other designer watches can be pricey. You don’t have to buy one a month, but maybe consider splurging. Until then, you can fake it until make it or buy a similar style watch from a less expensive brand.

2. Wool scarf

A nice scarf can add a pop of color to a work outfit and keep you warm in a chilly office.

3. Blazers

Blazers can easily “dress up” an outfit. I like to wear a blazer with a plain dresses. Depending on the accessories and shoes, I could be in training for the day or meeting with external clients. I’ll add a big necklace, comfy shoes and I’m ready for anything.

4. Ballet flats

If you know me, you know I LOVE flats. They’re easy, comfortable, fancy, versatile, all of the above. You can find flats at any apparel store but finding cute and professional flats are clutch. I love Tory Burch’s signature flats.

5. Nice fitting slacks     

Sigh, my favorite – not. When you have a butt, hips and thighs, it is hard to find pants period. For the office, it is almost impossible to find pants that fit AND the fit is appropriate for work (not hugging your goodies). For well-fitting pants, you have to go to the grown women stores. I like buying Banana Republic’s tailored pants. H&M and Forever 21 have cute work clothes and if you can fit them, go for it. However, if you’re thicker than snicker, go ahead and upgrade.

6. Tights/Stockings      

Stockings and tights are essential because they keep you warm and they help you pull off skirts that are just a bit too short for work. I recently started wearing more patterned tights. I usually pair them with a very plain dress and cardigan and add pearl/stud earrings.

7. Black pencil skirts

Black pencil skirts are flattering, super cute and really easy to match and dress up. Keep in mind, your black pencil skirt should fit loose enough that it is appropriate for work. When I wear a pencil skirt, and it’s too tight on my bottom half, I wear a longer top and/or a blazer. J.Lo always looks flawless. In this pic, the skirt is too tight to wear to work (perfect everywhere #werk), however. If it's your only option, definitely consider wearing a long blazer.

8. Pearl/gold/diamond stud earrings

Accessories are great for dressing up you work wardrobe. However, sometimes we can’t use the same accessories at work that we use at brunch with friends. You can wear colorful jewelry but it should never be distracting or too flashy. Stud earrings are classic and chic. I like wearing oversized studs to compliment my toned down outfits.

9. Comfy Pumps          

A nice, reliable, comfortable pair of black pumps are also essential. Actually, you can get them in every color. Comfort isn’t a requirement either. When it comes to shoes, the more you have, the better. They can be fun – just not distracting. Please please please make sure you know how to walk in them #noshade.

10. A smile

:)

Follow @thecolormeb for more #workfashion tips. When you post a pic, wearing one of these work wardrobe essentials, tag us! 

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

xoxo,

Courtney

Founder/CEO 

@TheColorMeB