An American Girl: At Work

I'm excited to launch a brand new series on the blog called, An American Girl. Over the past couple years I've been lucky enough to find a wonderful group of women who have become my friends, and in turn, have served as the inspiration for the series. There is, in my opinion, nothing more beneficial to a woman today than peers who understand what you do professionally, support your growth and provide guidance and empathy when needed.

Over my life I've encountered other types of women as well. Those that compete at unhealthy levels. Those that are so insecure they need company down there in the doldrums, so they try and hammer away at you until you accept the invitation to join them. Those that will come to tire you with their vapid problems and complaints. Those that you will realize are not good for you.

I hope with this series I can share a bit of what I've learned from the latter's insight and experience. Along with posts that highlight their beneficial advice, I'll also be interviewing and sharing profiles of women I admire and hope to learn even more from. Step 1 to aging gracefully and continuing on the road to one day "getting it right", the illuminating realization you don't know everything and you're willing to ask for help. Luckily, I now have several numbers I can dial when I need to.

We're starting today with the place that has consumed my days and nights for the past few months....work. Here's the question I asked our contributors:

"As a woman trying to make her way in the business world, what advice do you wish you had been given?"

• In work, and in life, you can never be overdressed.
•  Don't be surprised if women are tougher on you than men. Sometimes it's because they want you to work as hard as they did to get where they are and sometimes it's because they're jealous. Either way, knock it out of the park.
• Never be afraid to speak up and raise your hand. 
• Learn to embrace, fully embody and own the word "bitch".
• The only way to prove yourself is to do the work.
• It's ok that you don't know, but that you're willing to find out.
• Never accept a first salary offer.
• People will test your boundaries. Let them know early on you can be flexible, but you expect respect and compensation. 
• Work is not the place to find bridesmaids for your wedding.
• Never say or type the word sorry!
• Do what you have to do the night before to be prepared the next day. 
• Some people will tell you that appearance shouldn't matter, but frankly they don't know what they're talking about. If you look like you just got out of Freshman Psych you're never going to be taken seriously. Dress for the job that you want and realize your wardrobe can be a bit like a suit of armour. 
• Bad things will happen, you will make a mistake....it's how you handle it that will get you ahead. 
• Find a partner that makes you feel like you're on the same team, not keeping score. 
• Always be willing to say no.