Stretch Your Legs: Why you should take a walk
Biking to Work? How to Do It Right
Home Sweet Home: How to Decorate Your Place Like a Grown Up
Is 60 the new 40? How to Manage a Second Job
Contents This Issue 10
Ride On
Changing up your commute for your health and planet. Your body will thank you.
08
The New 40
Working the bare minimum isn’t an option for young professionals trying to get ahead. Why putting in overtime is a good idea.
25
2ndCareer Passion
How keeping your job and pursuing your passion may be the ticket to finding a career truly you love.
40
Owning Your Space
Perks of moving out – owning your own space. Now it’s time to decorate like an adult.
14
Walk About
Australians aren’t the only ones interested in walking around. Why you should get up from the cube and take a stroll.
Every Issue 06
From the Editor
The first brush with 40 (hours) is always the hardest
51
Breakroom Bites
Quick recipes for lunch you have to try.
30
Career Spotlight
Not all careers are created the same.
16
Dress for Success
Style tips for the young professional.
44 Follow Us
FortyMagazine.com Your online source for everything professional—covering life up the ladder, off-the-clock, and in between. Facebook.com/40Magazine Trending articles and posts we love to share. Plus Buzzfeed articles and animal videos to get you through the workday. Twitter.com/40Magazine Like Facebook, but shorter
Corporate Wellness
Tackling physical health and wellness
37
Out of Office (OOO)
A guide to planning your next vacation
Masthead About Us
Forty Magazine is a digital publication dedicated to young professionals. Intended for recent grads, employees, and professionals under 40, Forty Magazine helps millennials transition into the workplace with ease.
Our Website
Can’t wait for the next issue? Visit fortymagazine.com. Our website can help you navigate the professional world in between publishes.
Our Team
Kian Hervey Editorial Director and Co-Publisher
r! witte T n o us Follow oreKian @M eo92 @pd miee elyA @Lov OldG72 e @Sam AtYoGirl a @Hul LeWa E @ m Aberin dne @Aria
Morgan Hancock Creative Director and Co-Publisher
Contributing Writers Ariadne Aberin Parminder Deo Amie Kromis Molly Price Gareth Riley-Ayers Ashley Tanaka Emma Warren
Photo Credits PicJumbo
Gratisography
Viktor Hanacek
Ryan McGuire
Death to Stock Photo
RGB Stock Pixabay Unsplash
David Sherry & Allie Lehman
Cover photos, unless otherwise stated, are taken from the Internet and assumed to be in the public domain. In the event that there is still a problem or error with copyrighted material, the break of copyright is unintentional and non–commercial and the material will be removed immediately after the evidence is presented. The October 2014 cover of Forty Magazine features corporate design work by YLAB Arquitectos based in Barecelona, Spain. The image was borrowed from the company’s online portfolio available at http://ow.ly/CO3Jp.
Wan Sen t to co d nt Edit an e-m ribute? sub orial D ail to mitf orty irector our @gm a ail.c t om
40 HOURS
Devoted to your day-to-day interactions and experiences in the workplace, here you’ll find articles about appropriate office attire, trendy desk accessories, and co-worker etiquette. 40 Hours helps young professionals make it work from 9 to 5.
antsy and craving movement after sitting at a desk 8 hours a day, and I adopted a schedule that included gym by 6, bed by 11, and had the Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. life down. But when my internship ended and I returned to campus life, I realized many of my peers had no clue about the professional life that laid before them. Post graduation, we would all face the dreaded 40.
S
aying I applied for a full-time internship my junior year of college on a whim would be a lie. I applied to a Fortune 500 Company my junior year of college after much meditation and thought. Since the internship would require trading a full semester of credit hours for full-time employment, I sought counsel from a former Employee, researched the Company like crazy, and prayed like never before. Applying for a writer position would mean giving up a lot. I eventually cleaned up my resume, hit the submit button online, and hoped for the best. Months later, when I nearly had forgotten about my meditated endeavor, I received a call from a recruiter saying I had the job. Working 40 hours a week my senior year of college called for huge adjustments. No more sleeping till noon— I had to be up at 6:30 a.m. to get dressed and deal with a 30 to 40 minute commute. I found myself
40 Magazine comes from that first brush with 40. Dedicated to young professionals, 40 Magazine helps make the transition to the workplace easier for recent college grads and professionals under 30. In every issue, you’ll find articles devoted to personal and career development, day-today interactions in the workplace, and life beyond 40 hours, covering fitness/health, food, travel, romance, and technology. 40 Magazine provides young professionals with the tools and direction needed to become effective leaders in the workplace and champions of their personal life. Join our Creative Director Morgan Hancock, our team of contributors, and me as we navigate life moving up the ladder. It’s going to be a hell of a ride.
-Kian Kian Hervy Editor in Chief, Founder
I remember
sitting at my new desk, wondering what the protocol was for quitting a job after just 3 days. Did I need to write a letter, or could I just vanish and never return? My new co-worker was training me on the new software I’d be using; it was utterly overwhelming. At that moment, I decided that I could not stay. But I did stick around for the rest of my internship. I learned to use those new tools. I learned how to stay alert and productive for 8 hours in a row, 40 hours a week. I learned how to work with my managers and coworkers, speak up in meetings, balance my schedule, and manage my earnings.
40 Magazine is about that feeling-- the uncertainty of the new, the loss of availability, and the uneasiness
of giving so much of your time and yourself to work. 40 Magazine is about the excitement of creating, exploring, and learning, and the pride of surviving on your own. We don’t work because it’s fun—we work because we have to. We work to provide for our families, to pay off debts, and to prepare for our futures and the unexpected. We work to fill days and to support passions. Some work because they embody the spirit and fire of their industry; some work to build a ladder to reach that feeling.
40 Magazine is about this new, unwritten part of your life. Whether you’re living to work, or working to live, we’re here. We’re ready. Let’s go.
an
-Morg
Morgan Hancock Creative Director, Founder
is ............. the new
40?
The Benefits of Turning 40 Hours a Week into 60 Working 40-hour work weeks is a huge adjustment post-graduation. College schedules of classes two days a week or no classes on Friday are unrealistic in the real world. Life is now a 9-to-5 grind where young professionals sadly long for the weekend and happy hours with friends that keep us sane. This new lifestyle adjustment is just our first step into becoming an adult. Maximizing your off time is the second.
Instead of partying Thursday through Saturday, take that energy and focus it on a part-time job. Do freelance work (check out Fiverr), dog walk, baby sit for a nice family, or bartend. After working 40 hours a week, it might sound completely insane, but there are tons of benefits to picking up a second job. As long as you can mentally and physically handle it, why not work some extra hours? Here are just a few benefits of turning your 40-hour work week into 60.
EXTRA CASH
1a
Working a part-time gig on the weekend can help you pay back student loans, save up for a new car, or save for your dream nest egg. Working extra hours can also help you avoid maxing out credit cards and living the life of a $30,000 millionaire. With extra cash on hand, you’ll be more likely to live within your means, however lavish or modest they may be.
BETTER TIME MANAGEMENT
4a
BIGGER NETWORK
NO HANGOVERS
2
By working extra hours, you’ll lower your chances of getting an awful hangover. You won’t want to feel like crap the next day at work, so you’ll put the drink down instead of trying to re-live your college binge drinking days. With a second job, you’ll be more conscious of your drinking habits, and won’t have the opportunity to get drunk.
5a
HEALTHY MIND BODY+SPIRIT
3
Working the same desk job from 9 to 5 can get dull and boring. Chances are you took a job for the stable income and aren’t really feeling fulfilled at work. Besides binge watching Netflix, get an active job you’re excited about. Find something that forces you to move around and stretch your mind like working at a gym, arboretum or museum. Your mind, body and spirit will welcome the change of pace.
Your time management skills will greatly improve from picking up a second job. You’ll mentally prioritize what is truly worth your time and avoid things that waste it. The limited free time you do have becomes a much more valuable treat when you have two jobs. You’ll always remember time is money!
6
Every interaction at your parttime job is a potential networking opportunity. You never know who will cross your path as a client, customer or restaurant guest. If you spend your weekend going out or staying home, you may not get the opportunity to network effectively. The likelihood of you meeting someone with a great network is slim if you’re just drinking at a bar or sitting in bed. Taking a second job can put you in front the right person, at the right time.
YOYO- YOU’RE ONLY YOUNG ONCE! Drake’s motto for living it up applies to working hard. It’s easy to stack cash for vacations, clothes, and the things you really want with no kids, bills or major responsibilities. Make the extra cash now while you’re still young and not loaded with adult pressures.
Author Bio
Ashley Tanaka is a recent graduate of Southern Methodist University. A native of Kaneohe, Hawaii, she promotes happiness through current events on her personal blog ashleytanaka.com. Follow her on Twitter @HulaAtYoGirl.
Ride On More and more workers are skipping long car commutes and biking to work. Before making the switch, there are a few things to consider.
The U.S. Census Bureau recently found the number of bicycle commuters has increased by about 60 percent over the last decade. Of the 33.7 million workers under 30, nearly 2 percent commute by bike to save the environment, and improve their overall health. Our buyer’s considerations help you see if your work commute allows you to “Ride On.�
Like owning a car, owning a bike requires maintenance. Inevitably a tire will go flat, a chain will loosen, or a pedal will fall off. But unlike a car, fixing a bike doesn’t require expert skill. Visit your local bike shop for specific part guidance and get familiar with your bike for self-repairs.
Buyer’s Guide: Considerations Terrain
While you may just see open sidewalks and roadways, underneath the thick concrete is a number of valleys, hills, and elevation changes that can impact your commute. The average bike commuter travels for about 10 to 20 minutes, and in some places, it isn’t a smooth ride. When considering biking to work, think about the many routes you can take. If you plan on off-roading, cutting through paved alleys or public parks, certain bikes aren’t for you. Avoid fixed-gear and road bikes and opt for mountain bikes or hybrids best for rugged terrain.
Storage
All offices are not created equal. Think about cubicle or office space when selecting a ride. Frame sizes, measured from the top of the seat tube to the bottom holding axle, can range from 43 to 66 cm. Workers with enough space at their workstation should consider buying a bike shelf, pedal pod or other storage unit to properly stow their bike during the day. If there’s not enough room inside your building, you may be forced to leave your bike outside where it’s more susceptible to theft and damage. Solutions to potential theft and storage include buying a reliable security lock or compact folding bike.
Health
Commuting by bike requires a serious amount of physical strength. Besides requiring cardiac endurance for the entire commute, biking to work requires strength for hauling the bike around. The world’s lightest bike, weighing a little over 6 pounds, cost German cyclist Gunter Mai $45,000 to build. If you don’t have that type of cash to spend, expect to carry between 20 and 40 pounds around on a daily basis. Injuries to your knees, back, hamstring, groin, and other engaged muscles and joints are possible during a commute, so consult a physician before hitting the road.
Cost
Beyond the initial bike purchase, new commuters can expect to shell out additional dough for bike gear like helmets, racks, and panniers. A helmet can minimize brain damage in the tragic event of a fall or accident, and in certain cities, prevent ticketing and fines. Know the ordinances of your city and be safe rather than sorry by investing in a helmet. For carrying gear to and from work, consider adding a rack to you ride. Coupled with panniers, storage bags that hang over the wheel, you’ll hardly miss car trunk space. There are a number of accessories and add-ons that can enhance your ride.
Luxe Buys Bikes have come a long way since the kindergarten years of powder blue and light pink. Upgrade to wheels sleek in design and luxe in taste. These city bikes ranked by Bicycling magazine can set you back anywhere from $400 to $1900.
TWIN CITY STEP OVER 5-SPEED, MSRP: $599
SHINOLA BIXBY MSRP: $1950
Support Gear Affordable bike accessories to get you started.
Able to carry up to 55 pounds, this aluminum rack is a sturdy bike extension. (Topeak Explorer, $40)
Designed with bikes in mind, u-shaped locks offer more protection and security. (Kryptonite, $40)
Designed for multi-sport use, this helmet is stylish and practical (Bell, $40)
Provides an extralong hose that can pivot 360 degrees. (Topeak, $40)
Escape the Office One Step at a Time
The numbers are out for the British— the average UK worker spends 5 years of their life sitting at a desk. The data isn’t quite available stateside, but with longer work days (the average American age 25 to 54 working around 9 hours a day) we can assume much of our lives are spent sitting at a desk. Writer Emma Warren shares how she escapes being stationary with a mid-day walk.
W
ith doctors likening the harmful health effects of sitting to smoking, it’s important to move around at work. If you aren’t lucky enough to have a gym in your office, extensive exercise may not be possible during the work day.You may not have access to gym amenities such as a shower or locker room, but with a good pair of sneakers, you can find a number of creative ways to stay active on the job. I prefer escaping fluorescent lighting and getting some real fresh air with a midday walk. Whether you’re in a high rise downtown or mid-sized building in a suburb, there’s a trail or concrete path nearby for you to explore during the day. Before taking a walk, I complete some subtle stretches and exercises at or around my desk to loosen my muscles tense from a few hours of sitting. My current office, located on a canal, has a nice a path that takes about 20 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. For a majority of the walk, I don’t see the building that takes over 40 hours of my life every week, and I can easily clear my head of the day’s work problems.
While walking, I pass people walking their dogs and wonder what do they do for a living. What sort of job affords them the leisure to be out in casual dress, playing with puppies, and strolling about while I’m sweating in my business-casual dress? The ducks swimming in the canal make annoying noises as I pass by, but I prefer their natural sounds over the incessant clicking of pens in cubicles around me in the office. It also feels great to stretch my legs and move around as human nature intended. (Think pre-historic, hunter-gather days.) Before our office moved, my company was located in a remote building surrounded by asphalt on all sides. Instead of letting the concrete environment stop me, I took laps around the office building. The brief break from my desk, despite its minimum natural surroundings, enhanced my mood and helped me feel recharged for work in the afternoon. Some days, there is no escaping the monotony of the office: work must get done. But as many days as you can, take a walk outside. I highly recommend it.
Clothing in the Professional World We’ve all heard the term “business casual” tossed around in the professional world. Most companies adopt the dress code policy to encourage a corporate culture that’s cool, relaxed, and productive. But if you’re used to wearing heels and oxfords, it can be hard to switch your wardrobe to a more casual tone. Writer Ariadne Aberin breaks down what business casual really means and how to dress the part for interviews and the workplace.
What Business Casual Means Opinions Around the Web “Mix traditional business formal pieces with everyday clothing items (save for your weekend wear).” -Lauren Conrad, Dress Coding: Business Casual “On a crisp fall day, there’s really nothing better than a tweed jacket...If you’re going to wear jeans to the office, they should be as professional as a pair of dress pants.” -The GQ Guide to Business Casual
“Business casual” is such a vague term that people interpret it differently from place to place, so when asked to dress business casual attire, think where am I going and who will be there?
“For many men, business casual means a polo shirt, beige chinos and casual footwear such as boat shoes. Whilst this look may be great on the golf course for a Saturday tee off with the boss, it’s not ideal for the office.” --Business insider, A Gentleman’s Guide to Business Casual
The term “business casual” is tossed around quite frequently in the workplace. Business casual is usually appropriate attire for work-related functions such as conferences, outside meetings, and the office, but it also tends to vary based on corporate culture, event, or type of people you’re meeting could veer your business casual look towards a more formal or more casual approach. A good rule of thumb for dressing business casual to keep your clothing a step down from the formality of a suit. In general, an appropriate business casual look encompasses the basics: well-fitting pants or a skirt, a button-down shirt or blouse, and a blazer. You can get away with wearing separates in different colors or textures. You don’t have to match your trousers
(or skirt) with your blazer. And you have a little more wiggle room to show your personal style. Dressing business casual can be tricky because of how different the term “business casual” is interpreted. Business casual means you don’t need to suit up, but you still need to look professional and put-together. Whether dressing business casual or business formal, your attire should be a reflection of you and the quality of work you can produce. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have, and use your attire as a way to present yourself the way you want to be perceived. When you’re dressed for success, motivated, and maintaining a great work ethic, there’s nowhere to go on the corporate ladder but up.
Looking the Part
For Men
An appropriate business casual look for men can include well-fitting slacks in a neutral color, such as gray, navy, or brown, or even some khaki trousers, with a button-down shirt and an optional blazer. Here, I’ve paired khaki slacks with a blue plaid button-down shirt, and brown leather oxfords. In general, avoid black slacks, as black tends to be reserved for business formal attire, and it may be too formal for a business casual setting. And, avoid sneakers at all costs--no matter how cool they look, stick to something classier and more professional, such as loafers or oxfords.
For Women A great business casual look can include slacks or a skirt paired with a chic blouse, or a dress. Complete the look with a cardigan. Pant options are also flexible in business casual attire-- traditional slacks, slim-fitting or cropped pants are all appropriate. Wedges, espadrilles, and peep-toe shoes work well for finishing your look. Avoid sandals or flip flops to keep your look professional. Here, I’ve started with a blue striped button-down shirt and paired it with a polka-dot skirt. Mixing subtle prints like stripes and polka dots are a great way to add some interest to a basic, professional look. Keep the look simple with some nude pumps, and a tan leather belt to define your waist. Throw on a gray cardigan and a bold handbag for a happy medium between professional and chic.
Interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience. If it’s a job you really want, the pressure is on to sell yourself as a competitive candidate perfect for the job. Take the guesswork out of deciding what to wear with tips from Writer Adriane Aberdin. Her easy-to-follow advice helps you focus on what’s really important-- landing the job.
The search
is just about over. You’ve landed that coveted job interview, and you’re well on your way to starting your career. You’re confident in your abilities, and you’ve practiced your interview answers to potential questions. But one thing remains on your interview prep list dressing to impress. Interview attire, while not the single determining factor in whether you land your dream job or not, certainly plays a significant role in giving your hiring manager a great impression. Your interview attire conveys much more than just appearance; it can give an interviewer a good sense of your business etiquette, work ethic, and how seriously you are taking the job opportunity. For instance, under-dressing or dressing inappropriately for an interview could show an interviewer that you lack professionalism, may not take this job seriously, or even want the job. This sort of impression could raise potential questions about how you might represent the company and the quality of work you can produce--both of which are crucial factors in determining if an interview candidate should get the job.
While your interview attire should not be the focus of your preparation for a job interview, your attire can help sell the skills you have to offer. A great skill set, relevant work or internship experience, and positive comments from your references will look even better when represented by someone who is dressed the part. Conversely, a stellar resume and great work experience can all be overshadowed by lousy interview attire.
So how should you prepare your interview attire? First, do some research on the company culture. Is the environment more laidback, and do the employees dress more casually? Or, is the environment more conservative and formal, with employees dressed professionally? If you’ve visited the company before, you may have an idea of how casual or formal the dress code is. Your interview attire should be a more professional version of the company dress code. However, if you’re unsure of the dress code, it is always safer to be overdressed than under-dressed.
For Women
Try a black skirt suit paired with a natural blouse. Pearl drop earrings add a hint of class without being too flashy. A black leather tote makes for a chic way to carry around your resume, portfolio, and other interview essentials. Keep the makeup minimal and natural with a sheer foundation, natural blush, and mascara. For lips, a natural pink or subtle red is a great way to go.
For Men
Get started with a navy suit paired with a light-blue button-down shirt. For this look, A bow tie, but a standard tie or skinny tie works. A brown leather belt and oxfords give off a classic vibe, and a brown leather messenger bag is great for carrying copies of your resume, portfolio, and other essentials.
What Did You Wear? We asked our staff at FORTY what they wore to interviews for their current job. Even though their companies encourage business casual (or even plain casual) dress, they stepped it up for their interview with business attire that can work for any corporate interview.
I never know how long an interview is going to last so I always wear attire that fits my body comfortably. Royal blue is my favorite color and it helps me feel really confident and standout in a sea of black suits. -Kian Hervey, 22, wore blue heels to her first interview at Southwest Airlines.
A power suit is always nice. I dressed for the job I wanted not necessarily the job I was applying for.
-Tremaine Millender, 24, wore a navy suit and red tie to an interview at Xerox.
I look for outfits that project strength. Sleek black pants, pumps, and a red blouse feel sharp and confident to me. Sometimes I’ll add a black wool blazer, depending on the company culture.
-Morgan Hancock, 22, wore slim-cut black slacks and a red blouse to her interview at National Instruments.
Second Career Passion
By: Gareth Riley-Ayers Finding success in the professional world does not have to mean sacrificing your personal passions. Writer Gareth RileyAyers shares how his first loves, music and writing, will always be a part of his professional life, and how following your passion can fuel your second career.
The world we’ve spent our lives preparing for is changing. You can keep your day job, and find a more enjoyable second career outside the office.
F
or most people, entering the workforce generates feelings of excitement and fear. On one hand, working full-time means no more homework, academic tutoring, office hours, hard electives, boring classes, allnighters, or early morning cram sessions. The days of attending job fairs, completing phone interviews, asking for recommendations, and sending follow-up e-mails are gone. But on the other hand, getting to this point can feel like the culmination of your life’s work, and it may seem like there’s no margin for error. That anxiety can push people to unhealthy work habits that maintain success in a competitive environment, but neglect personal wellness. Whether an intern or the owner of a new startup, it’s easy to fall into habits that deny yourself ultimate happiness. But these efforts of sacrificing passion could ultimately be for naught. Riley-Ayers with his stepmother Shameeka Ayers at the signing for her book Instantly! How I Quickly Realized I Hate My Job. (Caryn Oxford)
A New Era Of Career
Our parents and grandparents lived when one could keep a career with one company for 45 years, and then retire with a gold watch. But according to experts, our generation will likely need 15-20 job changes in our lifetime. The thought may be stressful, but now is as good a time as any to remember balance and perspective. Now is the time to rediscover your passions. After years of structured education and corporate climbing, taking a leap of faith and switching careers may seem daunting. But beyond the reach of even the most ferocious of “Tiger Moms” exists a person off the resume fueled by deeper passions long forgotten or unknown.
The Sound Of Music
For me, music was a huge part of my past that I left behind for the sake of academics. For years growing up, my Aunt Linda, a professionally trained vocalist, lived with my family. She, most notably, sang in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. She sang her scales with me and practiced performances for me almost daily. She helped nurture in me a love for classical music and Broadway musicals. Her passion and excitement about her field was infectious. I eventually fell in love with classical
instruments and took to the string bass. For nine years, I played with large orchestras and small ensembles at school. I loved my instrument. Practicing and performing brought a refreshing calm from my alwaysbusy school schedule. And interestingly, I was most productive in school immediately after playing. But when it came time for college, the commitments of a college orchestra were too great. My academic aims, undergraduate employment, and football pursuits would pull me away from music. However, college did bring a new type of fulfillment—writing.
Writing Passion
My stepmom, Shameeka Ayers, launched her second career through writing. She started in a conventional corporate career and experienced the job hopping phenomenon with limited satisfaction. She had four or five jobs top-tier jobs, ranging from a private travel agent to a project manager at Oracle, but she grew to hate corporate life. Initially, she started her small lifestyle blog, The Broke Socialite, for personal fulfillment. But gradually, she gained a loyal following, expanded that brand to social networking sites Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook, and culminated her experiences in her book Instantly! How Quickly I Realized I HATE My Job. Her success in social media and blog writing made her a local expert in food. She now works as a consultant for a bakery in Atlanta and owns Sugar Coma Events, a national tour of dessert tasting experiences. By following her passions, she has been able to completely abandon the corporate world and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
only for myself. Writing was therapeutic. The medium demands an organization of thought that helps me process and understand complex life situations. However through the generosity of friends, I’ve been able to get some writings published in an online newspaper, The Other Perspective, and the SMU student newspaper, The Daily Campus. This stroke of good fortune has allowed other social and career opportunities to blossom. And as I enter the corporate world, writing will certainly remain an invaluable part of my wellness. I will continue to find other outlets for my writings and ultimately hope to write a book, like professional sportswriter Clay Travis.
Your passions shouldn’t interfere with your responsibilities, but they can become a healthy part of your long-term work life.
In many ways, I have emulated her in my young adult life by using writing as an escape. Initially I wrote to clear my mind without aims of publication—
Clay Travis graduated from Vanderbilt Law School in 2004 and began practicing law soon after. But as an avid SEC Football fan, he started a college football blog, and parlayed its success into an entire career in sports writing. He’s written a travel book for SEC Football stadiums Dixieland Delight, served as an editor for Deadspin.com, and owns a successful website under the Fox Sports masthead OutkickTheCoverage. com.
Following your passion can enrich your career.
Riley-Ayers verbally directing a group of student-athletes at a Dallas volunteer event. (Jessica Gardner)
G
areth Riley-Ayers is a senior at Southern Methodist University. His writings are also featured in political science journal Dialogue and SMU’s The Daily Campus.
Whether it be writing a book, starting a blog, or performing in an orchestra, finding passions outside of work, and exploring them fully, can bring more fulfillment and balance to your life. To this day, I miss being regularly involved with my instrument, and plan to engage with a community orchestra after I settle into a new city and start my career. You could find your passion by participating in the marketing, set design or tech crew of a community theatre, or by joining an adult recreational league for sand volleyball, kickball, or flag football. Your passions shouldn’t interfere with your responsibilities, but they can become a healthy part of your long-term work life.
Finding Your Outlet
The world we’ve spent our lives preparing for is changing before our eyes. You can keep your day job, and find a more enjoyable second or third career outside of the office. Be true to your personal desires and fill your life outside of your career with passion. There’s no time like the present to find what you out what you truly love.
Career Spotlight A glance into a reader’s exciting career.
DIVERSITY &
INCLUSION
The executive team critical to corporate success. As companies strive to enter the marketplace and serve more diverse audiences, they must create a culture in which diversity and inclusion is supported and can thrive. Diversity and inclusion allows companies to have an environment where all employees are respected and valued, which increases employee satisfaction and retention. The cost savings alone in not having to replace unsatisfied employees that don’t work to their full potential is a value in itself. Companies are realizing the society we operate in is becomingly increasingly diverse, and realize the value of having gender, ethnicity, and educational backgrounds properly represented. The value for external diversity and inclusion processes is also significant. Community engagement allows companies to know the pulse of their community and understand the needs of current and future clients. Companies that exercise their economic and social responsibility by doing business with historically disadvantaged businesses through supplier diversity programs ensures community empowerment, development of historically disadvantages businesses, and job creation.
Diversity and inclusion extends beyond internal processes. An inclusive culture impacts engagement with clients and the community. Community outreach and supplier diversity, encouraging the use of historically disadvantaged businesses, allows companies to leave a positive social and economic footprint in the communities they serve. More and more companies will hire full-time Diversity and Inclusion staff. Diversity and Inclusion will move from not just being the right thing to do, but will become a key business strategy for all companies in the future.
cts Fast Fa y Range: r ge Sala tive
cu Avera 00 | Exe 0 , 3 5 $ r ato Coordin 225,000 Officer $ y & Inclusion Diversit : s e l t i T anager, Job M r, o t a sident e r Coordin P e ic V anager, ce, Senior M uired: Experien eq Skills R nication & Commu ohnson J , Y E : s Leader ble Industry , Procter & Gam fice of Johnson rsity Inc, US Of es: Dive anagement c r u o s e R el M Personn
In the Field My boss uses the idea of dating to describe the ideal hiring process for an employee. My initial romance with Skanska was a regional affair. I had my first “date” with the company in my hometown of Nashville, TN in December 2012. I sat down for a breakfast meeting with a highranking yet humble executive and talked about my qualifications for and interest in a career at a world leading project development and construction group. I hadn’t taken an engineering course in my life and knew nothing about construction, but left feeling energized about a potential career in a completely foreign field. Skanska followed up with a second date in the heart of Dallas right across from my alma mater, Southern Methodist University. Again, I was meeting with high-ranking, yet down-to-earth executives, but this time, our interview focused on how my values would align with Skanska’s culture. I conducted more research on Skanska and fell in love with the possibility of taking a leap of faith into a career field I knew nothing about. I was ready for Skanska to pop the big question.
Meet Amie Kromis Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator Skanska, Nashville, TN
graduation and silently mourning being jobless, I received a phone call from one of Skanska’s co-chief operating officers. He offered me a position with Skanska as a diversity and inclusion coordinator for the company’s Midwest region, and my journey to learning the world of construction began. Coming into a company with no industry knowledge made me realize how vital it is to select a company that has the knowledge and resources readily available for your development. During my undergraduate career, I truly enjoyed representing my university well, internally and externally, and always expected myself to provide an “aha” moment or intriguing contribution to whatever I was involved in. When I joined Skanska I was a little frightened because I had no unique insight to contribute to certain discussions. To combat my lack of knowledge, within my first 90 days, I interviewed employees in every department to gain insight into the construction industry and how Skanska does business.
Weeks passed by without a phone call. In the metaphorical world of dating, it seemed a sign of waning interest. In the corporate world of interviewing, it was time for decision making. While sitting at my graduation brunch, simultaneously celebrating Kromis co-chairs the 2014 Women in the Workforce Forum and Awards with Joyce Searcy, Director of Community Relations at Belmont University.
With each meeting I had under my belt, I not only began to understand all of the moving pieces within the company, but also began to formulate how Diversity and Inclusion could integrate into those processes for maximum results. The job was very different from my previous experience at Southwest Airlines, where I interned in their diversity and inclusion department the last semester of my undergraduate career, but each day, I felt vital to Skanska’s understanding of how to exercise and define diversity. In moments of tough decision making, I looked to my role model, broadcast journalist Soledad O’Brien, a true champion for bringing diversity to the forefront of the American public. Skanka’s
President and CEO Mike McNally, another source of inspiration, describes diversity and inclusion with a simple, yet impactful statement-- “Diversity is a noun, and inclusion is a verb.” If a company has high diversity and low inclusion, internal conflict is always near and employee success is deterred. It is vital to create a culture that encourages everyone to contribute their background and perspectives so they can work to their full potential. Diversity and Inclusion has been and continues to be an emerging field. After a little over a year on the job, I’m happy to be right in the middle of it at Skanska.
Advice
Entering the field requires some navigation, as many corporate companies pull from within to create these positions. Companies want someone with prior D&I experience or who knows the company culture so he or she can integrate effective processes into the company’s operations. Here are some quick tips to getting your foot in the door and succeeding on the job:
Go to companies you admire. My internship experiences at Southwest Airlines and CNN added an additional pep in my step when I started the job. My admiration for these companies, and Skanska, stemmed from their emphasis on people and progressive thinking. Being in an environment you can enjoy dayin and day-out makes the job much easier. If your values and interests align with the company, you will care more about your work and be a better employee. Your performance will allow leadership to note your potential for departments within the company, and maybe even the creation of a diversity and inclusion department if one isn’t in place.
you must be confident that the amount of words you say in a meeting doesn’t equate to your effectiveness as an employee. “Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something.” Plato
Focus on your next 24 hours. When I entered into my position, I was overwhelmed with gratefulness, but also anxiety. In addition to my position covering four states, the next year and three months was filled with planning my wedding, moving to a different state, chairing an event for 200 attendees, presenting at Skanska’s national management meeting, learning a new job and learning a business community. All in all, if I viewed Talk less, listen more. When I first came on my life as a storm of life-changing events, board I felt I had to contribute something to the stress would put a toll on my ability to every meeting I attended. As the youngest accomplish all of my tasks. Even though member of the region’s leadership team I college students are taught to focus longput such pressure on myself to perform and term for professional success, I taught myself deliver fresh ideas that I was forgetting my to focus on the next 24 hours in front of me, position as not only an employee, but as a and just be aware of major events to come. student learning a new career field. You can learn the most from meetings you never speak By focusing on giving my best for the next 24 hours, my steps were naturally ordered so I at. Meetings where I only muttered my name was already prepared when a large event in as an introduction proved to be the most my life arrived. valuable because I was able to take notes from the masters. As a young professional,
Week at a Glance M T W R F
• Catch up on emails • Speak with diverse businesses interested in working on our projects • Meet with sub-committees for the Midwest Diversity & Inclusion Council • Attend advisory council meeting for Women in the Workplace Forum & Awards event • Attend community luncheon • Meet with community stakeholders for support on upcoming project
• Client meeting for upcoming $120 million project focused on community engagement and diverse businesses • Visit a job site to evaluate contractors use of diverse businesses • Set up a job shadow for a college student • Meeting with the City of Nashville to review diverse business participation on one of our projects • Midwest senior leadership team meeting • Attend the launch of Nashville’s ALPFA (Association for Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting) chapter launch • Meeting for a presentation focused on generational diversity for all Skanska USA offices during our annual Diversity and Inclusion Week • Meet to discuss the creation of a Midwest Young Professionals group
OFF THE CLOCK Devoted to life beyond 40 hours, here you’ll find articles about vacationing, dating, and shopping for gadgets we love. OFF THE CLOCK is all about achieving a healthy work/life balance around the clock.
OFF THE CLOCK Devoted to life beyond 40 hours, here you’ll find articles about vacationing, dating, and shopping for gadgets we love. OFF THE CLOCK is all about achieving a healthy work/life balance around the clock.
average annual travel costs, per person
Expenses break down: transportation food/beverages lodging entertainment
Sources: US Travel BLS EIA
Check out these cool travel apps!
how much more gas typically costs in California, over the national average
56% of trips are at least 100 miles away
Finding Time
F
ull-time workers with access to paid leave benefits have seen their paid holiday time decrease over the past 20 years. But the average worker, with at least 1 year of service, was typically guaranteed at least 10 days of vacation in 2012. Making the most of your vacation days starts with effective planning.
Peak Season Every industry has its highs and lows. Accountants dread year-end, retailers revel in holiday sales, and tax professionals live for April 15. Talk to a supervisor or tenured peer about demanding times on the job. These are the days you literally can’t afford to miss. A small suggestion can have a huge impact when the entire office is under stress. Stick around for the chance to really shine and become a face of encouragement and energy to your overwhelmed co-workers. Otherwise, co-workers may mistake your planned escape as a sign of laziness and weak commitment to the company. Show up when the going gets tough and plan a vacation after you’ve earned a break.
Vacation Hours Time is money and employers shell out nearly
$1.50 for every vacation hour off. Instead of asking for vacation days, ask your employer for vacation hours. Extremely valuable in November and December, vacation hours can translate into catching an earlier flight or spending extra time with family and friends. Split a vacation day to gain a few hours of relaxation before returning to work or rest up from a late night of travel and weekend blitz. As an added bonus, your employer saves some money too, and you take the exact time you need to unwind. Vacation hours are a measurable system that helps every one win.
Federal Holidays While each may be celebrated differently, federal holidays are equal in the eye of employers. Costing a mere 81 cents per hour off, holiday time is mandated, compensated time out of the office. Capitalize on the free day by celebrating in style. Pick a cherry from a New England orchard on President’s Day or cruise the Caribbean in honor of Columbus. Basing trips around federal holidays can become an annual tradition you can look forward to year-round. Finding time for vacations is important to employee productivity, attitude, physical and mental health. Invest in yourself by taking time off.
OWNING YOUR LIVING SPACE
After a long day of work, the first place you want to go is home. But for many fresh into the workforce, that home is often kept in a bare minimum state. Writer Molly Price shares her personal journey to owning her living space, and tips on making your apartment a home.
I loved
my college apartment. As apartments go, it was tasteful and almost adultlike. A three-story townhome in a corner of Auburn, Alabama, my cute little college town. The walls were actually painted a color, and it had laminate hardwood floors and a spacious kitchen. Fancy, right? Then I graduated. My once two-bedroom, three-story townhome became an itsy bitsy 500-square foot studio in the Uptown neighborhood of Dallas, Texas. It was a location thing, and I was pretty proud of my new digs. But small is small, and I had to learn a thing or two about making the most of my (basically microscopic) space. The unit was loftstyle, and that meant one teensy room housed my living room, office, kitchen, and bedroom. Talk about breakfast in bed! The only weapons in my seriously lacking interior design arsenal came from my internship at a home and garden magazine and a procrastination-fueled Pinterest account. I’d spent most of my days at the internship searching for stray commas, but occasionally, I ventured to home decor stores in search of photoshoot props and trendy items. It was then that I began to imagine what my very own home might look like someday. In the studio, I started with the bedspread. It was, whether I liked it or not, going to be the focal point of the one-room living space. I choose a pattern that appealed to me and had colors I could pull out with accent pieces. I went for something not in the dorm room color palette. No lime greens, bright purples or girly pinks. It was trendy, but not from the “Back to School”
aisle. From there, I choose a chocolate brown, faux-leather headboard from a discount home store. This is a great way to get the look of a finished bedroom without shelling out the cash for an entire bed. To define the bedroom space, I purchased a complementing rug and placed it beneath the bed. I had a decent looking hand-me-down couch and desk. Just because you’re out of the college apartment, doesn’t mean everything has to be new. The couch was a classic shade of khaki and the desk a light brown wood. I was determined to transition these into adulthood. From the bedspread, I matched accent pillows for the couch, coordinating the two adjacent spaces. Since I’d never really used a desk in college (read: writing papers in bed while watching Lifetime), I intently set up my computer, printer and all things editorial in the farthest corner of the room. You know, like a professional. I added a few more items; a large brown dresser by the bed and a TV cabinet for the living area, keeping with the browns and earth tones of the bedspread. The kitchen and bathroom didn’t offer much room for design, so I kept it simple in the kitchen with some small canvas art and two barstools (again, discount home store) for the dining area. A striped shower curtain, matching bath mats and a new set of towels completed the bathroom. All in all, my space was nice. Was it perfect? No, but it reflected my aspirations of adulthood and encouraged me to explore my personal style and make quality purchases that would last. When I think about the decisions I made in pulling together my first adult space, a few key points come to mind.
Do your research. In my
quest to conceive a design scheme, I found interesting tips and tricks, like the 60-30-10 rule of color in a space. The internet is a wild place, but with focused keywords and a little patience, it’s not so hard to find good design advice.
Splurge on a few items.
You know, the kind of items you’d be too afraid to display in college for fear of ahem, liquid laden table tennis tournaments. Lamps, great art and area rugs make perfect splurgeworthy accent pieces.
Take your time. This one is
hard. It’s so easy to throw away the last moving box and want to buy it all right then. Curating your precious pieces will take time and searching. It’s worth it to develop a space that is truly you. If you’re imagining something specific, chances are it’s out there! Keep looking.
Shop local. This is a great
way to explore a new city. To find things that reflect your individual style, it’s going to take more than a trip to the magical red bullseye of bargains. Chain stores are great for basics, but a few quirky details from a local antique store or market will make your space unique.
Don’t fear color. It’s scary, I know, but you’ve likely lived the majority of your renter’s life in a desolate white-walled space. If your lease allows, add color! Even a single accent wall can change a room. I’ve enthusiastically slapped a glob of paint on the wall, stepped back and hated it. Life moves on. And usually, the home improvement store will add a few drops of just the right hue and adjust the paint for free.
THE LOOK FOR LESS Affordable trends that fit the bill...and the budget. Whether it’s a loft, townhome, condo, or apartment, your living space could use a bit of sprucing up. Splurge on an item you can use move after move or opt for a budget-friendly piece that looks just as nice. These room accessories can have a huge impact on a room without breaking the bank.
Riley Club Chair, ZGallerie $399
Threshold Barrel Chair, Target $169
Rustic Storage Side Table, WestElm $299
Threshold Mixed Material Side Table, Target 89.99
Seagrass Bay Table Lamp, Havertys $199
Rattan Table Lamp, Kirklands $15
Treillage Pillow, Anthropologie $148
Cane Printed Down Filled Pillow, Overstock.com $27
Cut. Pulverize. Drink. Repeat. A TWO-DAY JUICE CLEANSE By Parminder Deo
Photo Courtesy BluePrint Cleanse Facebook.
For 48 hours, Writer Parminder Deo put his body to the test by following Nekter Juice Bar’s six drink cleanse. His story counts the highs and lows of being a first-time cleanser and motivates the rest of us to stop following everyone else’s advice and research the juicing trend for ourselves. We’ve all done it— looked hard in the mirror and said I could stand to lose a few more pounds. If you’re working out, toning up, and trying to build more muscle or burn fat, your body could use some help reaching your fitness goals. Resetting your body with a juice cleanse may be the best assistance you can give your body when switching to a healthier lifestyle. If you’ve thought about juicing, you probably asked a trusted peer their take on body cleansing. Chances are their answers ranged from “It was great” to “I was hungry the whole time.” When I first considered juicing, I heard the same thing. Instead of relying others’ opinions, I decided to start juicing on my own. I started my juice diet by doing some research. Supporters agree that juicing is a “quick reset” for your body. Since cleansing juice literally has the fiber crushed out from the pulp of vegetables and fruits, your body can quickly absorb the natural nutrients. A three-day cleanse really resets the body and can help dieters transition into healthier eating habits. But too many days of juice fasting can seriously mess with your health. A German study found that eight days of juice fasting with high physical activity can increase LDL cholesterol associated with blood clots, blocked arteries and heart attack. The study also found free healthy cholesterol is reduced during a long cleanse. Fortunately these hypocaloric effects, a result of consuming fewer calories than those burned, are normally short-lived and last only up to week after the cleanse. From my pre-medical training, I knew after more than three days of juicing, my body would start tapping into its fat reserves because my body would be hypo caloric, in taking fewer calories
than burned. Constant tapping of fat reserves could cause my liver to unnecessarily release glucose which would eventually break down muscle tissue. I settled on a two-day cleanse to avoid these harmful effects, and still get the effect of juicing. A quality juicer can run up to $300 dollars, and it would take a lot of time to buy groceries, process the fruit, and finally make my own juice concoction. I finally prioritized cost and time and starting researching what fast and affordable options were available. A one-day pre-made cleanse can cost upwards of $75. This seemingly high premium usually includes six bottles filled with “fresh, organic vegetables.” (Remember when juice was just juice! Sunny D and Mott’s, anyone?) I wondered if these prices were fair for a pulverized pulp-free potion. I decided to go with a more affordable company called Nekter Juice Bar. Nekter Juice Bar was close to my house, had clever names for its drinks, and a reasonable price for a two-day cleanse. For $103 (with tax), I received 12 juices and a convenient insulated tote to carry my drinks with me on-the-go. I was ready to cleanse, and adopted the mantra “Goodbye, toxins. Hello, new revitalized me.” Two-days on the Nekter cleanse worked wonders. I felt energized and my will to keep the cleanse up rarely faltered. After the cleanse I wanted to continue with healthier choices in foods. I felt less tired during the day and was more productive at work. After feeling dizzy and getting a headache on my first try workout, I limited physical exertion at the gym or with athome programs for the rest of the cleanse. The final size-up? A grand total of 4 pounds.
I could have achieved the weight loss with a regular diet and exercise, but juicing was a quicker way to achieve that goal. It’s a bad idea to do a cleanse with the sole purpose of losing weight, but people often go into a cleanse with the “get rich quick” notion of weight loss. If you goal isn’t weight loss but a restart, a two-three cleanse is beneficial. There is not a one size fits all standard for cleanses. For those thinking about juicing, decide at what cost juicing is worth it. Do what you think is good for you and your body. Don’t feel pressured to jump on a juicing purge. Do your research and have a safe and effective cleanse. Happy juicing is a possibility. Just give it a try! Our friends Jadah and Jen of Simple Green Smoothies are on a mission to spread their love of natural, green smoothies. The dynamic duo offer an, free online 30-Day Challenge for dieters looking to boost their immune system and revitalize their health. Try one of their 5-ingredient recipes below to quench your thirst for something green and healthy. Photo Courtesy BluePrint Cleanse Facebook. Taken by Maxwell Tielman of Design Sponge
Beginner’s Luck
Pomegranate Citrus Punch
Instructions Blend spinach and water until smooth. Next, add the remaining fruits and blend again.
Instructions Blend spinach, orange juice and water until smooth. Next add the remaining fruits and blend again. If you have two fresh oranges, feel free to add them to blender rather than the orange juice.
Ingredients 2 cups spinach, fresh 2 cups water 1 cup pineapple 1 cup mango 2 bananas
Ingredients 2 cups spinach, fresh 1 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed 1 cup water 1 cup pomegranate seeds 1 bananas
Photo Courtesy BluePrint Cleanse Facebook.
Outside the Box Forget a regular lunch box. Tote your midday meal with these multi-functional containers. Writer Kian Hervey explores the pros, cons, and style of each option.
Bringing your lunch to work every day doesn’t have to be boring. Mix things up by buying some new tupperware. These food storage items have Good Housekeeping’s tested approval, and what these containers promise, they deliver. All are dishwasher and microwave safe and BPA free. From preserving vegetables to preventing accidents, these containers have you covered for lunch and beyond.
Plastic Take a fresh look at plastic with tupperware that inspires healthy living. Fit & Fresh helps you pack in perfect, healthy portions, $8-23. Rubbermaid Produce Saver keeps salads and veggies tasting great longer, $4-20.
Vented
Let off a little steam with air vented storage that breathes easy. Sterilite has a colormatch system to help you never lose a top, $3-20. Freshvac vented containers have sturdy handles to make transport smooth. Never see or hear a popped top again with these vented designs.
Lock-Top Prevent clumsy accidents with secure lock-tops that buckle down. Lock N Lock has a container size for any food need, big or small, $2-35. Rubbermaid Lockits feature interchangeable lids for multiple bases, $4-20.
Glass Never confuse a lunch again with crystal clear glass tupperware. TrueSeal by Anchor Hocking adds color to glass with unique hues, $3-25 Snapware glass storage introduces oven reheats to your lunch, $6-30.
STEEL Not into plastic or glass? Stainless steel is a lightweight, durable alternative. Lunchbots are designed with lunch and snacking in mind with divided sections, $19-52: Innate Gear has a top that conveniently transforms into a microwave-safe bowl, $20.
BREAK BITES
Whether your break is 30 minutes or an hour, Break Bites keeps you full and satisfied all day long. Here you’ll find articles devoted to our favorite part of the workday– lunch.
Chipotle Chicken Alfredo Ingredients ½ pound whole grain pasta 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 tsp minced garlic 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (chile peppers optional) 1 cup shredded Parmesan 1-2 sliced chicken breasts
Instructions 1. Boil pasta and set aside. 2. Heat heavy whipping cream in a sautĂŠ pan over medium heat. 3. Stir in minced garlic, sliced chicken breast, adobo sauce, and chile peppers (optional). 4. Allow cream to boil for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. 5. Add Parmesan and stir until melted. 6. Add noodles and stir. Serve hot.
Pita Pizza
Sauce
Ingredients 2 sixteen oz cans of tomato sauce 1 eight oz can of tomato paste 1 tbs olive oil 1 tsp salt 1 tsp peper 1/2 tsp sugar Garlic, basil, and oregano Instructions 1. Mix all ingredients in medium bowl. Add garlic and herbs to taste.
Pizza
Ingredients 1 whole grain or white pita round 2-3 tablespoons pizza sauce 1/4 cup italian cheeses blend Garlic and Herbs Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 425. 2. Add sauce, cheese, and seasoning to pita round. 3. Bake for 7-8 minutes, until cheese is golden.
Stretch Your Legs: Why you should take a walk
Biking to Work? How to Do It Right
Home Sweet Home: How to Decorate Your Place Like a Grown Up
Is 60 the new 40? How to Manage a Second Job