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Mind Control: How to create a positive digital footprint?

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What people think about us starts way before they meet us. Some people heard about us from friends. Maybe you’ve seen each other at an event but no one ever introduced you. It’s highly likely that the person went and searched your name on the internet. Creepy, but it happens. In the wild world of social media, people size us up by what we post, like, double tap and pin. 

I can’t tell you how many times someone has referred to something I posted on my social media page. The crazy thing is they didn’t comment or like the post (wide eyed emoji). 

Not everyone is worth impressing, there some case when what we post can effect us. For example, while looking for a job – the last thing a recruiter wants to see is you using foul language, drinking or half naked. Yep, it’s your personal page. Nope, it’s not private once you put it out there. We live in a world of screen shot hunny. You can thank Apple for that one. 

Here is a quick list of things you can do to manage your personal brand and make sure you’re getting all the good opportunities coming to you.

How to create a positive digital footprint?

  • Start by writing your professional biography. How did you start in your field? What are your strengths? Where did you grow up? What can you bring to a company? Be sure to add your personality to this. Don’t add emojis. Do paint a picture of your personality.
  • Get a professional head shot. You don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars for this. Just put on an outfit that fits your profession and have a friend take a picture of you in front of solid wall. It’s that simple.
  • Get recommendations. Nice words from co-workers, not for profit organizations and close friends help people understand your character and work ethic.
  • Start an AboutMe, Linkedin or Levo League page. Each of these websites gives you a personal page to market your professional skills and a platform to connect with others.

 
Improving your digital footprint works no matter what your profession is. I don’t care if you’re a cashier or CEO. People need to know about your professional accomplishments and aspirations.

Cheers to Success,
Chanel

Kids Already Don’t Have Books: What’s Left to Cut

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School closings, overcrowded class rooms, attendance boundary politics, no books, sense of hopelessness, stressed teachers, limited resources. 

I’m confused at what’s being cut. 

There isn’t much else to take. Many of these schools are already running on empty. This is my first year living in the city with my kids and yeah – I’m concerned. With all the world’s preconceived notions of minority intelligence, how can our kids do their very best with scraps?
The CPS website says, “In the coming fiscal year, other districts will receive $2,266 per student in pension support from Springfield, while Chicago will receive only $31 per student.”

Crazy right!
My husband and  I grew up in Chicago, so we’re no strangers to talks of teacher strikes and overcrowded class rooms. But we at least had books. 
My sister is a visual learner. She is a steady A B student, however I know she’d do much better if she could actually study from a book or work book. 

When I learned she had not one book amongst 7 subjects, I was like how the hell is she suppose to study. 


Teacher’s  are using multiple websites to develop lesson plans because the school is underfunded. That’s an added headache for the teacher, students and parents. Not to mention it sucks for the environment. They’re printing who knows how many sheets per month. 

Asking kids to go online for work, in my opinion is an added distraction for them. Especially, when many aren’t taught internet etiquette. (That’s on us parents) Not blaming the teachers. I’m glad that they are being creative with their learning, but is that going to help our kids compete in college. Who knows. 
Why don’t these student have books so they can see information on a regular basis to really grasp concepts? Isn’t that what they’ll be doing in college? 
Not sure if Chicago officials even expect our kids to attend college. 
I’ll say this, my kids will SUCCEED regardless of what’s happening in this city. My family cares about our kids and we won’t let anyone or anything make them feel hopeless and optionless. 
I know there are thousands of parents who feel the same way. Let’s keep encouraging our babies. They need us now more than ever. 
How are you talking to your kids about the CPS budget cuts?

Why do some people get ahead in life and others don’t?

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Why do some people get ahead in life and others don’t? I have no clue. What I do know is if no one knows who you are or what you do they can’t connect you with valuable opportunities. One tactic that has worked for me is personal branding. I didn’t attend a top college or no someone that new someone, but I’ve always been good at marketing my skills and aspirations.

I’ve been able to gain valuable opportunities by magnifying my strengths  For me that’s work ethic, professionalism, forward thinking and positive energy. We all have our fair share of gifts, but you’ve got to know how to work them.

Let’s say you don’t enjoy your job, which means you are actively looking for some way to get the hell out. One way to improve your chances of finding a job you actually like is improving your digital footprint.

What is a digital footprint? It’s all the good and bad information floating around about you on the internet. It’s what pops up if someone Googles your name.

You’re probably thinking, well I’m not on social media or my pages are private. Well that’s not good either. If recruiters are looking for a candidate, one of the first things they’ll do is look you up on a website like Linkedin. If you’re not there, but the next candidate is with a shiny portfolio and colleague recommendations – that could be a lost opportunity for you.

We all wear multiple hats on a regular basis. The well-mannered professional we are at work takes a back seat to the blunt, swearing wine connoisseur we are on the weekends 😉 The truth is we need a web presence for the person that pays our bills. People need to know about the professional side of us.

Show the world you’re anything but basic. You’re AMAZING!

Get Used to It: There will be some "ugly days" during the progression process.

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BEAST MODE! I know beasts aren’t cute, but to hell with being cute when you have goals to reach. Just kidding. I love my lipstick lol. But, there will be some “ugly days” during the progression process. 2016 is your break out year and you need to be ready. The slate has been wiped clean and the sweet smell of opportunity is in the air. Smells like Victoria Secret Love Spell on a 14 year old girl. Our optimism is strong and our vision is clear at this point in the year. Mama’s got big plans! How do we keep that momentum?

REFLECT, PLAN, PURSUE, REVISE

      The goals and dreams of last year should be categorized in 3 ways:
       
      •  I accomplished my goal
      •  I’m rolling this goal over
      •  I’m deleting this goal
      DON’T FEEL DEFEATED
      Do not feel defeated if you did not accomplish a goal or need to roll them over. Life unexp      ected happens to us all and we are balancing other lives besides our own. We’re building more than just dream businesses. We’re building dream relationships, dream kids, dream homes and dream careers. Just breathe and say, “I Got THIS!”

      USE YOUR ENERGY FOR GOOD
      We must use our energy to press forward, not to beat ourselves up about goals deferred. Growth happens and that can mean out growing a goal. It’s best to delete that goal (or person) and move on. Holding on to it could be a distraction from other goals you’re passionate about. Let it go and focus!

       
      PLAN OUT YOUR VISION
      Go look at your old vision board or list and start thinking about how that goal fits into your life or the life you want.  If we don’t review what we did or didn’t do – we can’t apply those lessons to 2016. I lear      ned some really big business and family lessons last year that will help me plan better this year. One big lesson I learned is that organization is needed to succeed. Doing things by the seat of our pants is not the way to build an empire. I’m planning to bring the heat this year.

       

       
       
      “If you do not know where you come from, then you don’t know where you are, and if you don’t know where you are, then you don’t know where you’re going. And if you don’t know where you’re going, you’re probably going wrong.” – Terry Pratchett
       
      Good Vibes and Great Opportunities,
      Chanel

      Is "Work" a 4 Letter Word in Your House?

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      Over the years, I watched my mom go from a Jewel Osco cashier, to Bank Teller, to a home Loan Officer. At the end of her life she was making more than 90k. If it wasn’t for that damn colon cancer, I’m sure she would have clocked that 6 figures before 40. That’s pretty damn good for a single mom of three with no college degree.

      Hands down my mother was the ultimate hustler. Honestly, many of the single mothers I know are driven on a level of purpose regular folks will never understand. They feel like they have to do the work for the absent parent. I imagine that’s exactly how my mom felt. I learned the true value of WORK from her.
      I can’t ever remember my mother not working. Her motto was, “If you want it, work for it.” Something I still live by.
      When she made the decision to buy a home I remember

      it vividly. She told me and my younger brother we would have to stay with our Grandmother while she saved money. She moved into a studio apartment close to her job. I now understand that she needed to work multiple jobs to save money and wanted to be sure we were with a trusted relative while she worked non-stop. There is nobody more trustworthy than Granny.
      As a mother, I know that had to be tough decision for her to separate herself from her kids. Her goals were much bigger than her comfort zone. Luckly, she had an amazing support system that supported her goals.
      During this time, my mother became a licensed Real Estate Agent, worked at a retail store and held down her 9 – 5 as a home Loan Officer. Can you say GRINDMODE.
      She was focused on buying her family a home and she did it. 2 years later, we moved into a 2 bedroom, three floor townhouse –  not far from my Grandmother’s house. Me and my brother were all too geeked to get our own rooms. The backyard was huge with a deck and two car garage. She was 31 years old.
      Watching my mother do what was necessary to give us stability taught me a valuable lesson. Sometimes, we must be unstable to experience stability. She could have just said, I’ll stay with my mother since she has empty rooms. Nope, she wanted her own. She wanted to prove to herself that she didn’t need a man, handouts or a degree to purchase a home. All she needed was faith, focus and a crazy drive to succeed.
      Her work ethic serves as the blueprint for my life. In the short 19 years I had with her she proved that statics mean nothing when you’re willing to sacrifice and WERK hard.
      So my question to you is, do your kids know what you’re working towards?

      If not, maybe it’s time you let your kids in on your vision. You’ll be surprised at how much kids understand.

      – Chanel

      It’s Ok for Your Kids to be Your Valentine

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      Valentine’s Day is as important as Christmas for some people. The Hallmark holiday isn’t really about the quality of the gift as much as it’s about the thoughtfullness of the gift.

      Last year the National Retail Federation reported that the average person partipating inblogger-image-547138763 the madness of  Feb. 14 will spend $142.31, with $96.63 going to a spouse or significant other. The rest of the money will be spent on family, friends, co-workers, pets, children’s classmates or teachers.

      Valentine’s Day gift giving goes back to my childhood days. Growing up, we didn’t have men in our family to give the ladies gifts, so in true Superwoman fashion the moms decided to celebrate each other and their kids. Oh I just love women that take a day that many are thinking of what they’d like to get on V-Day and turn it into a day of giving.

      blogger-image--1074839124

      The tradition continues. My Aunt and Granny are the most thoughtful moms I know. Not just I’ll keep you in my prayers thoughtful – I’m talking about make you feel like you’re the most loved person in the world thoughtful.
      Last year, my Granny sent each of her Grandkids and Great Grandkids cash and encouraging words for Valentine’s Day. The kids loved every dollar of course 😘 Winning, right?
      Not everyone can be won over with money. My sister, Bree is a sweets monster, so she required a litte more effort.
      My Aunt sent home made some deliciously moist brownies and bought McDonald’s treat books for the kids ( I won’t eat those 😉
      McDonald’s treat books are available for purchase during certain holidays like Valentine’s Day and Halloween. And the treat books are only $1 and include 12 coupons for burgers, apple slices, Go Gurt and chocolate milk. The treat book coupons don’t expire until May 2016. Ask your neighborhood McDonald’s for details.

      What are you planning to buy your kids for Valentine’s Day?

      Expand Your Network: Networking & Professional Development Events in Chicago

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      Networking & Professional Development Events

      Chicago AMA Gives Back Holiday Celebration
      Dec 15, 6:30pm -8:30pm, The State Street Gallery at Robert Morris University, 401 S. State Street
      BMA Breakfast Seminar: Stacy Neier, Senior Lecturer, Quinlan School of Business
      Jan 20, 7:00am-9:00am, Loyola University Chicago, Schreiber Center, 16 E. Pearson, 8th Floor
      Source: Paladin Staffing
      Email us your current events mommymakinmoves@gmail.com

      Spend Your Coins with Women Owned Small Businesses

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      I’m a woman’s woman and I just live to see another woman winning in business, family, love, parenting or whatever. So in celebration of just got paid Friday (I just made that up), here are my 5 favorite women owned small businesses this week. 
      Let’s do our best to support these women in their goals of business growth. You never know you may be looking to them for mentorship, investment money or a career. #WomenSupportWomen


      Sky Arts

      Courtesy of Sky Arts Facebook Page

       One of my sister friends hosted a painting party for her daughter and Sky Arts was the coordinator. I’ve been a fan ever since. Sky Arts gives phenomenal instruction that allows everyone to become a visual artist, at least while Sky Arts is instructing.
      You can attend a weekly community art event or book your own personal paint party. Visit them on Facebook. 




      Dear’s Fashion Boutique

      Courtesy of Dear’s Fashion Facebook Page

       Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, Dear’s Fashion     Boutique carries men and women’s clothing, accessories and shoes. This is a great place to shop if you’re looking a stand out dress for a celebration, date night or drinks with co-workers.

      Visit them at 1414 W Roosevelt Rd. Broadview, IL


      Courtesy of Bombshell’s Facebook Page


      BombShell Movement Studio

      It’s not a gym, but you’ll definitely work up a sweat. Bombshell Movement Studio is a safe, nurturing sexy space where everyday women come to let loose. The classes are filled with slow, sexy and slinky movements designed to help you unleash your inner Bombshell. Perfect for a girls night out.
      Visit the Bombshell website to book a session





      Werk 101

      Courtesy of Werk101.com

      WERK 101: Get Your Life Together Guide, is a fresh literary gold mine making its debut. WERK 101, written by Koereyelle DuBose founder of The Single Wives Club, is proving to be a staple to distinctive women who have a desire to take their lives to the next level. Essence Relationship Editor Charreah Jackson, raves“Koereyelle is a visionary creating a life of passion and purpose. In WERK 101, she freely shares her incredible insight for women around the world to do the same.

      Purchase the book at werk101.com




      Empire Life

      Empire Life Magazine is a digital magazine and blog curated by and for millennial entrepreneurial woman. Don’t let that scare you away. The website includes information on Beauty, Business and Health that can help us corporate hustlers too.

      Read their latest posts at empirelifemag.com

      Hit Up the Chicago Public Library

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      Take full advantage of the Chicago Public Library. There is so much for you and your kids to do. As you can see from his Kool Aid smile he gets excited about a good book. 
      The library is a great place to bond with your kid over books, games and toys. They may even see a familiar friend.  
      Need quiet time?
      Put them on a kid friendly computer for an hour while you read, write, plan or just relax. It’s one of my secret weapons for affordable parenting. Oh, and they have tons of online resources. 
      I found all of the scholarly journals for my research paper by logging into my Chicago Public Library account at home.
      http://www.chipublib.org/