By Dr. Yakini 
Ladies, it's official: Michelle Obama is the First Lady of American fashion, style, and grace! In the history of the United States there has ever been so much talk about the First Lady of the United States. With the exception of Jackie O, no one has really cared too much about what she wore, and certainly not what she said or how she interacted with her husband and children. Yet, each and every outfit First Lady Obama chooses to wear is under scrutiny by the media. Each magazine cover she graces is examined, re-examined and then discussed. Television appearances are closely monitored and can be found as topic of conversation in a blog or message board the very next day. I believe the reason is quite simple: Michelle Obama is fabulous! Mrs. Obama is not only attractive, poised, and quietly confident, she is also an intellectual force to be reckoned with. In case you have forgotten, besides supermom, wife, and public servant, Michelle holds the following credentials:
- Graduated Cum Laude from Princeton University with a Bachelor of Arts (1985)
- Earned her Law Degree from Harvard University (1988)
In this article I celebrate the fabulous lady we know as Michelle Obama by compiling the magazine covers she has graced over the last few years.
Lady Obama poses with Oprah Winfrey on the cover of the April issue of Oprah magazine (on stands March 17).
It's the first time Ms. Winfrey has invited somebody to appear alongside her instead of appearing alone. Obama dons a Michael Kors dress and Dear Cashmere cardigan, while Winfrey wears a dress by Rachel Roy New York. 
The New Yorker’s biannual Style Issue hits newsstands this week with a Michelle Obama cover and brief First Lady fashion commentary.
On the cover of People Magazine Michelle Obama wore is wearing the Tracy Reese Guipure Lace Kimono Dress in Dried Azalea.
Michelle Obama appeared on the cover of the March issue of the country's premier mainstream fashion magazine, Vogue, making history once again as the second president's wife to appear on the cover. Mrs. Obama wears a magenta silk sheath dress by Jason Wu, who also designed her inaugural gown.
Above Lady Obama appears in a J.Crew salmon wool cardigan, top, and tweed skirt.
Michelle Obama at the Hay-Adams Hotel in Washington, D.C. Narcisco Rodriguez dress.
For the Vogue photos she opted to wear labels by designers she has worn before: Wu, who made her inaugural gown; Narcisco Rodriguez, the designer of that Election Night dress; and J. Crew, which she and her children have famously worn.
Lady Obama gracing the August 2007 cover of Ebony Magazine
Michelle Obama on the cover of Essence Magazine.
Michelle Obama graces the cover of Newsweek on two separate occasions
September 2008 cover of Radar Magazine
First Lady Obama will be the subject of the latest chapter of Bluewater Productions' ongoing "Female Force" comic series. The book will follow Obama from her youth on the South Side of Chicago to her community, civic service and private-sector career successes through the 2008 presidential campaign and election day. The book is scheduled for release in April 2009..
Finally, in Glamour Magazine's American Icons issue, Alicia Keys poses as Michelle Obama for Glamour Magazine, noting of our First Lady, "She has worked hard for everything she’s accomplished, and done so with grace and humility. So many women and girls can identify with her story."
By Dr. Yakini
Congratulations to President Barack Obama! It is indeed a great day in our nation as President Obama assumes the role of commander in chief, shattering a racial barrier in the United States!
As always, our new First Lady was powerful and exquisite on President Obama's arm. It's evident that Lady Obama isn't afraid to take risks and express her own personal style, while still respecting the conservative tradition of her position as first lady.
I absolutely loved Mrs. Obama's inaugural fashion choices on Inauguration Tuesday. Her bold and unusual choices combined classic and conservatism with a modern edge, which I believe is a reflection of many women in this country today. Her silhouette is a classic one, but the color and fabrics are always modern.
Enjoy these images of the First Lady's Inauguration Fashions, courtesy of The Huffington Post.
Saturday, January 17th: The birthday girl boards the Whistle Stop train tour in a wool, faux wrap A-line coat. 
Revealing a purple ensemble on board the train.
Sunday, January 18th: Michelle arrives at "We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" in Washington wearing Narciso Rodriguez, who also designed her election night dress.
Arriving with Barack at the "We Are One" concert in Narciso Rodriguez
Monday, January 19th: Michelle volunteers at Operation Gratitude
Monday, January 19th: Michelle in J. Crew at the Kids' Inaugural concert
Tuesday, January 20th: Michelle Obama arrives at the inauguration ceremony wearing a matching lacy brocade and coat suit dress by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo and green gloves by J. Crew.
I love that she chose to wear lace, which is such a huge trend this fall, but interpreted in her own way.
Revealing the cardigan that was beneath the coat at the luncheon  Michelle Obama chose a white chiffon one-shoulder gown by Jason Wu as her Inaugural Ball Gown. Wu, 26, who was born in Taiwan and works in Manhattan, has been compared to Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. But that Park Avenue sensibility is often tempered with a touch of youthful whimsy.  "First of all, how good-looking is my wife?" asked President Barack Obama at the first of 10 official inaugural balls. Mrs. Obama also wore diamond drop earrings and a diamond cuff bracelet to match the sparkle of the beaded gown. CLICK HERE to return to the Homepage.
By Jennifer Wasilewski
Do you have a holiday office party coming up and you're not quite sure how to act? Office parties tend to be awkward because they combine the business atmosphere of work and the social aspect of a party. It's hard to know which lines you could cross and which ones you shouldn't. Finding the happy medium isn't always easy, but with these great tips you should have no problem getting through the night.
- Be There and Be on Time: Generally speaking, being fashionably late is a good thing for parties, however, for some reason this doesn't really include work parties. It's a good idea to come on time or only a few minutes late. This is especially important if a meal is to be served. You definitely should be there by the time the first course (often a salad) is served and you should leave no earlier than after dessert.
- Dress to Impress: Chances are you won't have to wear a suit and tie to your office gathering, but that doesn't mean you can wear anything you please. Leave the ripped jeans and the comfy sneakers at home. Opt for dress pants or dark denim paired with a nice button down top. Stick with casual dress shoes and you'll be ready to dance the night away.
- Watch Your Alcohol Consumption: It's a holiday office party, and chances are there will be
 alcohol available. It's okay to have a few drinks, even get a little tipsy; it is, after all, a party. However, it's never a good idea to end up too drunk to remember the night. Being the "drunken guy in the corner" doesn't show much respect for your boss. The last gift you want for the holidays is a pink slip that you don't' remember getting.
- Take Advantage of Opportunity: An office party is a great time to interact with co workers and senior staff members so take advantage of the opportunity at hand. This is an excellent place to show your strength as a person without having to discuss business. If you share common interests like golfing, fishing, or other hobbies, with your boss feel free to chat with them.
- Don't Get Greedy: Even if you feel you're really impressing your boss with your witty conversation, don't monopolize him or her the entire party. It's important to mingle and share your boss with everyone. If your boss wants to speak to you more, rest assured that she will find you. Mingle with your other coworkers--you never know who you will meet.
- Be Gracious: Be sure to thank your boss and whomever else was responsible for throwing the party. A lot of work goes into a Holiday party and it's important that you show how much you appreciate that. You don't need to go over board and make a big display of it; a simple, but heartfelt, "Thank you" should be just fine.
By Diane DiResta
Glass ceiling or partners in sabotage? While the glass ceiling exists, very often we undermine our own success by how we communicate in the workplace. We’ve learned to dress for success but have we learned the language of success?
When Catalyst, a non-profit organization dealing with women’s issues, asked. “What holds women back from top management?” Fifty-two per cent said “Male stereotyping and preconceptions of women.” When they asked “How can women succeed?” Sixty-one per cent said “Developing a style with which male managers are comfortable. ” It seems communication style is vitally important.
Here are ten ways women weaken their image and what they can be do about it.
1. Too much head nodding--When women nod, they mean “I hear you,” “I understand. ” However, men interpret head nodding as agreement with their ideas. Too much head nodding will be perceived as weakness and may result in miscommunication. Continual head bobbing creates a subliminal message of submissiveness.
2. Uptalk--A rising inflection at the end of a sentence sounds tentative, as if posing a question. This is a real credibility killer. Women will not be taken seriously with this vocal pattern. To speak with authority practice bringing the voice down at the end of a sentence. American intonation patterns use a downward inflection to declare or demand and a rising inflection to question or indicate uncertainty.
This is not true for all cultures. In Canada, India, Pakistan, France and China it is more commonplace to hear the voice rise at the end of a sentence. This pattern is sometimes used by American men in the South or by Generation X. It is not effective for either sex.
3. Weak Language--Tag lines-Some communicators make a statement and then ask for validation. “This is a good idea, don’t you think? or “We have the best team, right?” Tag lines weaken conviction and authority. Eliminate them.
Modifiers--Words such as some, just, only, hopefully, and guess, minimize the message and the messenger. “This is just a thought. ” “I’m only a beginner,” “Hopefully, I’ve done a good job,” “I guess I have a question,” are weak statements. They signal a lack of confidence and tell the listener that it’s not very important. Constant apologizing is not appropriate and will have the same effect. Weed out wimpy words and replace them with powerful language. This is most commonly a female pattern. It's time to sound confident and full of conviction.
4. Allowing interruptions--Men jump in and say what they think. They tend to interrupt more than women. Women are more likely to allow themselves to be cut off and lose credit for their ideas. Instead, they can say, “I’m not finished,” “ Please hold your questions,” “These interruptions break everyone’s train of thought” or continue talking and finish your point.
5. Not speaking up (Waiting to be called on)--Still waters may run deep but in our business culture, people who don’t speak up are perceived as not knowing anything. Commit to making one contribution at every meeting. It may be as simple as underscoring a point or adding to what's been said. Some women wait to be called on or have difficulty taking the floor. It may be necessary to interrupt to have your say. Do it. You must be heard to be a counted.
6. Dressing too sexy--A visual impression takes seven seconds or less. Clothing and appearance are a visual shorthand. Women who wear spiked heels, low cut blouses, heavy make-up, and micro-mini skirts are communicating sexual availability rather than career mobility. To succeed in the workplace, women must dress the part. You don’t have to sacrifice femininity, but don’t appear too flashy. The goal is to look professionally attractive. To achieve advancement, dress one level above your present position. If you are a supervisor, dress like a manager. On the opposite end of the continuum, executive women may dress too frumpy. At senior levels it’s no longer what you know but who you are as a leader. If a woman executive doesn’t look the part, she’ll lose respect and credibility.
7. Too soft spoken--A soft or breathy voice may sound sexy but it indicates insecurity or lack of confidence. Breathe from the diaphragm and project the voice so that every person at the meeting can hear. If they have to strain to listen, they will tune you out. A speaker loses conviction when ideas are presented in a soft voice. Confident women project their voices.
8. Allowing others to take credit for ideas--A common complaint of women is that men take credit for their ideas. When this happens women must learn to speak up and claim their contributions. “Excuse me, I just said that a minute ago. ” or “How is that different from what I just proposed?” Do not sit quietly while someone intercepts your idea.
9. Weak Body posture--Cute gestures such as shrugging shoulders, not making direct eye contact, standing with one leg crossed at the ankle and a weak handshake will weaken one’s visual impact. Men naturally take up more space. Hold your ground. Stand tall and sit up straight, make direct eye contact, and ground your energy. Channel nervousness by using hand gestures about the waist. Act like you belong. You have a right to be there.
10. Avoiding public speaking. This is one of the biggest mistakes women can make in their careers. Men don’t have a glass ceiling. Public speaking is an opportunity for visibility and equal exposure. Confront your fear, get some coaching, and get out there and shine. Diane DiResta, President of New York based DiResta Communications, Inc. helps executives to speak with authority and connect with passion to achieve business results and with women who want to make it in a man’s world. She is the author of Knockout Presentations: How to Deliver Your Message with Power, Punch, and Pizzazz (Chandler House Press). and Conversations on Success (Insight Publishing) To subscribe to a free online newsletter visit http://www.diresta.com.
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By Leesa Barnes
Every time you attend a networking event, mixer, cocktail party or conference, you’re bound to make contact with someone new. In order to build rapport, you will need to meet your new business contact over coffee, dinner or a game of golf. This especially becomes tricky if the person you just met is the same sex as your spouse or partner.
The last thing you want to do is spend each day arguing with your spouse or partner about the amount of time you’re spending with your new business contact. Yet, you may be making mistakes right now that are causing unnecessary friction in your personal relationship.
To ensure that you get to sleep on the couch night after night, here are some surefire ways to get the green-eyed monster in your spouse or partner to rear its ugly head every time you interact with your new business contact. You’ll also learn tips on what to do instead.
- Give your home number and home address to your new business contact. Wrong. The only phone number or address you should give to a new business contact is your office information. Anything outside of these office details is really pushing it.
- Tell your new business contact to call you at any time. If you want to continue having a happy relationship with your spouse or partner, inform your new business contact to call you anytime during business hours. Allowing your new business contact to phone you after dinner or into the wee hours of the night is an invitation to a heated discussion with your spouse or partner.
- Meet your new business contact at a nightclub, bar or other social setting. This is a recipe for disaster. Try to meet your new business contact in a more professional setting, such as at a coffee shop, an executive club or better yet, at your office. Nothing will irritate your wife or girlfriend more than to hear that you’re meeting your new female business contact at the spa. Your husband or boyfriend will be equally annoyed to hear that you’re meeting your new male business contact at a salsa dancing event.
- Skype or instant message your new business contact more than you speak to your spouse or partner. Another bonehead move on your part. You only have so many hours in the day dedicated to business and if you find that your leisure time is spent instant messaging or skyping your new business contact instead of relaxing with your loved one, be prepared to sleep on the couch.
- Keep the name of your new business contact a secret. Oh my, this is a cardinal sin. You can avoid an inquisition by sharing the name of this new business contact with your spouse or partner. Just be honest. Tell your loved one that you met someone at a networking event who you’ll be spending a bit of time with because they may become a client. Or, they may partner with you on a project. Don’t keep your significant other in the dark.
- Speak glowingly of your new business contact every minute of every day. This too is a no-no. Praise the skills that this person brings to the table, but do not compare how much more fabulous your new business contact is than your spouse or partner. If you continue to gush about how wonderful your business contact is, expect to receive a tough lip reception every time you reach over for a kiss from your significant other.
Relationships can be tricky, yet can become a nightmare if you choose not to inform your spouse or partner of a new business contact, especially if that contact is the same sex as your loved one. Being honest about your intentions and keeping your professional hat on will ensure that your partner remains happy while you forge ahead and network with new people. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leesa_Barnes
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By Leesa Barnes
 There's a time and place to network with people in order to generate leads, build rapport and form meaningful relationships. The change room at your gym, spa or country club isn't one of them. It's a lousy place to do any networking. Things dangle, imperfections are visible, and being naked means that you're vulnerable.
If the person is a yapper, you're stuck listening to him since you won't be able to scurry away to your car in your birthday suit. If the person is a looker, you may feel embarrassed asking her to keep her eyes focused on your own.
However, if you do find that you've bumped into someone you've been trying to get in touch with, and she's standing in front of you half-naked, here are some tips to remember to avoid embarrassment, while also seizing the moment:
- Don't stare. At a networking event, it's perfectly fine to look at what someone's wearing and even comment on how they look. In the change room, this is a no-no. Whether the person has a mole on their butt or a rash on their thigh, resist the temptation of eyeing that spot. Also, never ask how they got it. Instead, glance at the spot quickly, then return your focus to the person's eyes.
- Keep your eyes at eye level. While networking, it's common for people to make eye contact then let their eyes fall down to your chest area to read your nametag. Don't do this in the change room. Nothing is more embarrassing then dropping your eyes to scan the person in their birthday suit. Your best bet is to pretend the person is wearing a full body chastity suit and that you can't see anything below his or her neck.
- Don't have a long chat. At a networking event, it's okay to engage people for at least 5-minutes to find out who they are and how you can help them. In the change room, people are often not in the business frame of mind. For example, someone at the gym is there to workout and may need to get back to office quickly. Someone at the spa is there to relax and has left the office at the office. If you must chat, keep it very pleasant and very short. Then, promise to follow-up by email or phone later in the day.
- Resist the handshake. In a normal networking situation, shaking hands is proper business etiquette. However, while in the change room, resist the urge to stick out your hand. The person may have hair gel, body lotion or some other gooey substance all over their fingers. The last thing you want to do is stand there after a handshake with something wet drying all over your fingers as you chat. Instead, simply wave hello, keep your distance and just smile.
- Don't ask "Why are you here?" This is a normal question at a networking event. People are dying to know what you're looking for so they can help you. In the change room, asking that question is either stating the obvious or can be awkward. If you're at the gym, assume they're working out. If the person's at the doctor's office, most likely they have a medical condition that they'd prefer to discuss with their doctor. If you must ask questions, try asking about the family, a recent vacation or what they're reading these days and stay away from asking about the obvious.
Networking in the change room can happen, just remember how to do it effectively to avoid an awkward encounter. Keep your eyes level, resist the urge to touch and you'll soon learn that networking while undressed can be rewarding to the growth of your business. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
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By Leesa Barnes
Above image: Pepsi-Cola advertisement, 1959
You’ve been there. You enter a room and someone walks up to you, yelling out your name at the top of their lungs. You rack your brains, trying to remember who this lady is, but your mind draws a blank. Instead of yelling her name back, you shout out “Hey!” instead. Nice.
Remembering people’s names will help you to open doors and close deals. When you can recall someone’s name, not only do you make him or her feel special, but you also give the impression that you pay attention to the finer details. Knowing someone’s name can spell the difference between getting a warm referral or being brushed off.
Here are some clever techniques you can use so you never forget another name again.
- Repeat it over and over. Saying the person’s name a few times after meeting him or her can help you tuck their name into your memory for good. Because some of us learn best when we hear things, you should repeat the name over and over throughout your conversation. Just remember not to make every other word the person’s name; otherwise, you’ll come across as weird. Instead, begin every third or fourth sentence with the person's name.
- Remember a unique detail about the person. Ann could have striking blue eyes, Rod could have really broad shoulders or Yolanda could be wearing a pink dress. Because some of us are visual learners, associating a unique physical trait to the person you just met may help you in recalling their name at a later date.
- Give them a moniker. Use a nickname or an alliteration to jog your memory. For example, if you meet me, Leesa, at a networking event, you can tell yourself that I’m “Lovable Leesa,” simply because you felt I had a likeable personality. Diane could be “Delirious Diane,” because of her boisterous laugh or Milton could be known as “Miserable Milton” if he tended to frown all evening. Whatever moniker you choose, keep it to yourself so you don’t offend the person.
- Use technology. Using a personal data assistant (PDA) is an excellent way to remember someone’s name. Before you go to a meeting or head into a networking event, you can consult your PDA quickly to catch up on some of the names of people who you met at the event or company the last time you were there.
Just because you have difficulty remembering people’s names, doesn’t mean that you should stop networking altogether. Instead, follow the simple tips above and your memory will never fail you the next someone bellows your name from the highest terrace. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
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By Dr. Yakini
If stylish handbags are an important element of your everyday life then, undoubtedly, owning a fabulous luggage set is also high on your list of priorities. From the garment bag you take on a business trip to the overnight bag for a romantic weekend tête-à-tête, you'll find that many of your favorite purse designers also make functional luggage set combos. Read on to learn about the only type of "personal baggage" to bring into your relationships: the kind that matches!
 Just because luggage is practical doesn't mean that it can't also make a statement about your tastes and personal style, or even about your favorite designers and labels. If you travel often, or carry a lot of items with you, you'll be pleased to discover some of the fabuluxe luggage sets and travel totes on the market! Those who travel a lot may want to invest more into a top of the line luggage set. Those who travel less frequently may prefer an off brand suitcase or messenger bag rather than investing in a pricier set. In any case, you'll surely find selections on the market to meet both your budget and fashion needs.
Luggage sets can include a wide range of styles in various sizes, including but not limited to:
- Cosmetics bag
- Duffel bag
- Garment bag
- Hat box
- Messenger bag
- Rolling upright
- Satchel
- Suitcase
- Tote
- Overnight bag
Susan Breslow Sardone, Honeymoons/Romantic Travel Guide writer for About.com, notes that there is no better time than the present to begin acquiring a set of matching luggage. That way you have every piece you could need when it's time to travel. She names her Top 10 Matching Luggage Set recommendations for 2008.
1. Tumi T-Tech Matching Luggage Collection
Want to really go in style? There's nothing as design-savvy as a set of Tumi's T-Tech collections, which consist of a few dozen matching pieces ranging from a backpack to garment bags. I've seen top models and executives carrying Tumi. Distinctive features like the ergonomic handles and well-organized interiors in a contrasting color make this expensive luggage collection very desirable.
2. Diane Von Furstenberg Sexy Metal 3-Piece Luggage Set
Leave it to Diane to design luggage that's actually sexy. In gleaming bronze or subdued pewter, her three-piece matching set includes a carry-on and 21" and 25" expandable rolling suitcases. They're the perfect gift to say, "We're going places together, baby!"
High style and low price combine to earn this set of matching luggage a "Best of the Best" rating from eBags customers. Set consists of three rolling suitcases (28 inches, 25 inches, 20.5" plus a tote with a shoulder strap and soft-sided zippered case for cosmetics and toiletries.
This highly rated, versatile matching luggage set is sturdy and well-organized. Its construction strikes a balance between being lightweight enough to carry and durable to last. The selection of 27" upright, 23" upright, 19" upright, travel tote, and duffel means you'll always have a suitable piece to use, regardless of the length of your trip. Sensible and subtle (i.e. neither solid black nor flashy) color choices — plum, navy — help this nesting luggage set stand out at the carousel.
I've been using Claiborne luggage most recently, and it's held up well. The pieces seem to have a larger capacity than comparative ones; they expand generously. I don't use every piece when I travel every time, but there's always at least one perfect for a trip.
If you've got a lot to carry but not a lot of cash, this matching set provides a lot of pieces for a little bit of money. The pieces in this set are likely to work perfectly well on your first few trips as long as you don't overload them. Just don't expect it to last as long as a quality set of luggage.
A stand-out thanks to complementary stripes down the side, this matching luggage set has a sporty look. The versatile set includes four uprights with a matching tote and a rolling duffel bag, which means there's a suitable piece for any trip. A good choice for a trip of a week or less, this sturdy 3-piece matching luggage set offers more than meets the eye. It's guaranteed for ten years, significantly longer than comparative luggage. Well-organized interiors on the three expandable uprights help keep shoes and dirty clothing separate from items you haven't yet worn. Order the set in red, to stand out from all the black luggage on the carousel.
Whether you're heading for Florence, Italy... Florence, South Carolina... your Aunt Florence's house... or anywhere else, you'll definitely go in style if you pack your belongings inside this rich-looking set of matched luggage. Durable red and gold paisley fabric features extra support in corners. Set includes wheeled 28", 24", and 20" uprights a and train case. If you're already wearing your heart on your sleeve, consider showing it on your luggage as well. This four-piece set of matching luggage features a stylish polished nickel heart emblem The set includes three stylish rolling uprights and a boarding bag, all available in fuschia or olive. The price for this luggage set on eBags is significantly lower than if you were to buy it in a department store. Segments of this article courtesy of About.com.
By Leesa Barnes
Above image: Hart Schaffner & Marx advertisement, 1956
You’re at a networking event or in a business meeting and an attractive person walks into the room. You feel your pulse racing and something starts to stir in the middle part of your body. Not to worry, it’s not your lunch coming back up. You’re feeling the vibe–-the “I want to bag you” vibe.
It’s difficult to turn a business contact into a date. You met over very business-like circumstances and you could ruin a possible joint venture, partnership or alliance if you make the wrong move. A contract may not be signed if you ask for a date and the person just isn’t interested.
To avoid ruining a business relationship with an ill-timed request for something on the wild side, follow these six winning tips to turn a business contact into a date.
- Listen for clues about their marital status. When you’re at a networking event or when you sit in a meeting, the person chatting will always give clues as to whether they’re married, attached or single. Often, the person will say “My wife and I…,” or “My husband thinks…” You could avoid embarrassment by taking the time to listen for these not-so-subtle clues.
- Explain your intention for meeting up without sounding like a jock or jockette. At a networking event or in a business meeting, you should always have your professional hat on. Don’t say, “I think you’re hot. Let’s hook up for a drink.” Instead, tell the person that you find them interesting and you’d like to talk more at another time. By saying the word “interesting,” the person will see your request as harmless since it could just mean that you want to learn more about his or her business.
- Suggest meeting up for coffee. Ask for the business card and explain that you would like to follow-up. Then arrange a meeting over a low-pressure drink. Don't schedule your first encounter over lunch or dinner. Because of how long it takes to consume a hot plate of food, if the person turns out to be boring, you’re stuck wasting away precious time. On top of that, meeting over lunch or dinner can turn out to be expensive, especially if the person has a healthy appetite. Opt for coffee instead because by the time you finish your cup of brew, you may decide to end the meeting there or make an appointment for a future get-together.
- Keep the paws off. When you meet for the first time over coffee, you still have no idea if your feelings of attraction will be reciprocated. Avoid becoming touchy feely after the handshake. Instead, keep everything professional and treat the person as a business contact.
- Ease your way into personal questions. Remember, you’re still trying to find out if the person is even attracted to you. Keep your questions professional, opting to ask about business goals instead of sexual conquests. A rule of thumb is to ask 1 personal question for every 3 professional ones. If you’ve asked the person about their business goals for the current year, who their target audience is and whether they’re going to expand, you now have permission to ask a personal question. Your personal questions should revolve around these issues:
- Where he or she grew up
- What’s his or her favourite movie
- What type of music he or she listens to
- What is his or her parent’s nationality
- What books is he or she currently reading
- What is his or her favorite spot in the world
- Ask for the date. After following steps 1 to 5, if you’re feeling the vibe, ask for what you want-– a real date. If the person says, “Yes,” you’ve scored big time. It means that your gal-dar or guy-dar is bang on. If the person says, “No,” take the rejection in stride. Just tell the person that you misinterpreted their feelings and put your professional hat back on. Shake hands and tell the person it was nice getting acquainted. Then, go home and cry.
Just because you met the person at a networking event or in a business meeting, doesn’t mean you turn off your attraction radar and become a eunuch or a monk. Instead, follow the tips above and you’ll have more success of turning your business contact into a date, and less chance of getting rejected for crossing the line. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
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By Dr. Yakini
Congratulations to Senator Barack Obama for becoming the Democratic Nominee for President! Of course, behind every great man is a fantastic woman. Mrs. Obama has been influential, not only in the political realm, but across the fashion scene as well. Today Girly Home Webzine® celebrates Mrs. Obama's fabulous fashion sense, from day to evening, through a collection of my favorite images of our presumptive first lady.
Lady Obama is fabulous in more ways than one! In addition to being a naturally strong and confident woman who holds degrees from Princeton and Harvard Law School, she has also been hailed as the modern day, black Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. She is a striking image of femininity whose intelligence and savvy have put gloss and backbone into her husband’s bid for the White House. Writes the New York Daily News, “Like it or lump it, the personal style of each candidate’s wife has become an important part in establishing individuality, likability, and power."
Mrs. Obama is a sophisticated woman who embraces life with an unfettered sense of 'joie de vivre'. This is evidenced by the fun she has with fashion, making varied apparel choices that signal this woman never sees anything in life as constant. That’s change! And that is the essence of what fashion, and politics, is all about.
Vanity Fair’s style connoisseurs deemed Mrs. Obama ready for the crown of the world’s best-dressed woman for her ensemble of a Maria Pinto purple shift, with a black Azzedine Alaïa belt, worn when her husband claimed the Democratic presidential nomination on June 3, 2008. “She’s our commander in sheath,” the magazine said.
Michelle Obama stands on stage, in a gorgeous turquoise, three-quarter-sleeve, 50's inspired sheath in double-faced wool, with her daughters Malia and Sasha during day one of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the Pepsi Center August 25, 2008 in Denver, Colorado. The pendant is not part of this design but taken from Lady Obama's own jewelry collection.
Presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama and Mrs. Obama walk off the campaign plane August 23, 2008 in Springfield, Illinois. Obama is on his way to campaign with his vice presidential pick Sen. Joe Biden. Once again, Mrs. Obama is fabulous in a floral, lavender faux wrap knit dress.
Senator and Lady Obama, in a floral Radzimir kimono dress, after he accepted the Democratic Party's invitation to become its Nominee for President on August 28, 2008. The dress is part of New York designer, Thakoon Panichgul's, Spring 2009 collection.
 
When Mrs Obama appeared on the popular US daytime talk show, The View, wearing this black and white Donna Ricco dress from White House/Black Market that retails at $148, the sundress sold out overnight and made the designer a household name.
Classic, classic, classic seems to be Lady Obama's motto, pictured here with husband Barack in an orange shift and signature pearls.
Michelle Obama takes the stage in bold horizontal stripes when addressing about 900 people at the National Partnership for Women and Families annual luncheon June 20, 2008 in Washington, DC. Obama expressed her support for the organization and talked about the challenges of being a working mother.
A tribute to Jackie O? Lady Obama sports a vintage-style round collar at a benefit luncheon held at the New York Historical Society on June 26, 2007.
Mrs. Obama pairs her standard oversized pearls with a red, puffed-sleeve jacket on Super Tuesday in Chicago.
Known for mixing high with low and classics with trends, Lady Obama solidified her fashionista status when she was recently seen in one of fall's hottest trends: ruffles: Sporting a ruffle front Maria Pinto blouse, Mrs. Obama looked like she could have walked directly off the runway at Bill Blass, Moschino, Erdem or even Lanvin, where ruffles were all the rage for Fall 2008.
Mrs. Obama is simply stunning in winter white during a Vanity Fair magazine shoot for a piece on the Obama campaign in 2007.
Mrs. Obama pictured above in black and white with her signature, black Azzedine Alaïa belt.
Lady Obama's penchant for belts was again on display at the Waldorf Astoria in June 2008.
Mrs. Obama proves to us that a classic houndstooth print never goes out of fashion.
A fan of skirt suits, Mrs. Obama introduces her husband at a campaign appearance in Manhattan in March. This classic, pin striped ensemble features a nipped-in waist.
Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama celebrating his victory in the South Carolina primary in January 2008 with Lady Obama, pretty in pink, by his side.
Mrs. Obama applauds at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago on June 15, 2008, looking very "Breakfast at Tiffany's," in a classic A-line dress and matching cardigan.
Michelle works the crowd in khakis at a February rally in Los Angeles.  Mrs. Obama accessorized with both a belt and pearls at a Hollywood fund-raiser in February. With Mrs. Obama is Jennifer Aniston. At left is Morgan Freeman.
With her 5'11" statuesque height, Mrs. Obama becomes resplendent in the evening. Presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Senator and Lady Obama for an elegant evening out.
At a Chicago charity event in 2005
Mrs. Obama is simply lovely in a light blue, satin sheath with her brother, Craig Robinson, at a charity event in 2007.
The Obamas enjoying the 36th NAACP Image Awards at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles, CA on March 19, 2005.
Lady Obama in a striking azure halter dress at a fund-raiser hosted by Oprah Winfrey. At right are hip-hop mogul/entrepreneur, Percy Miller, and the always stunning Oprah Winfrey.
Mrs. Obama accessorized her asymmetrical gown with layers of silver necklaces at a fund-raiser for her husband, held at Calvin Klein's New York home on June 17, 2008.
Maria Pinto (left) is the woman behind many of the possible First Lady's signature looks. The bell sleeves, the tailored suits, the simple color palettes, all created by a Chicago-based designer who will open her first boutique in the "windy city," June 2008 according to blog "Runway to Retail."
Tom Julian, president of a New York City-based brand consultancy, laments, "I'd put her in an Oprah sphere in terms of influence." Julian predicted that Mrs. Obama will change the face of political fashion in that she could be the first first lady to wear both high and low-end fashion. It turns out it may not only be time for a political change, it may also be time for a change of clothes when it comes to first ladies.
She will bring affordable American sportswear to the forefront, and this is very appealing to the Middle American woman voter. She's modern–-a boomer, a woman of color with a real shape. It will be interesting what she picks as a signature piece, and I predict that it will be in the sportswear realm." Julian also says he would not be surprised to see her embrace some black designers such as Kevan Hall and Tracy Reese, to tell a modern American fashion story during the upcoming election.
Dr. Yakini is a clinical psychologist and freelance lifestyle writer living in Brooklyn, NY. She owns and edits Girly Home Webzine®, the online magazine for ladies living siddity in the city.
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