Job Searching - Part I

I've mentioned a few times that I just started a new job (LOVE it!) but I haven't talked at all about how I got my job or how I prepared for my interview (crucial). I spent a couple months off-and-on searching for jobs and I have to say, I had forgotten how tiring and stressful the search can be! I know that job searching is a big part of life for most 20-somethings so I wanted to do a series of posts on different aspects of it. I know I spent a good amount of hours scouring blogs and articles for all kinds of tips from updating my resume to what to wear to the interview.

If there is anything specific you want to know about, let me know!

To start off, I like to research companies in my area that I think seem interesting or fun to work for and see if they have any openings in my field. I know that it seems like "fun" should not be a part of the job search but I cannot stress enough how important it is to enjoy your workplace and what you do. I have worked at jobs where I didn't enjoy one or the other (or both...) and it just did not work out. There are things you can sacrifice short-term but if you are looking for a long-term job you need to be a bit picky to make sure that you will enjoy what you do, and where you work, for years to come.

I highly recommend signing up with a temp agency (OfficeTeam is my favorite). This is especially important if you are not currently working as they can find temporary jobs for you so you can earn some money while you are looking. In my opinion it is very important to have a good relationship with an agency because they often come across temp-to-hire or even direct hire positions and they will do all the work of marketing you and presenting you for the position. They will often coach you with tips for the interview which is hugely helpful because they really know what hiring managers are looking for.

While the temp agency will help you to make you resume as presentable as possible, it is also important to work on this on your own before meeting with them. I am going to do a full post on resume writing but some critical points to keep in mind are that your resume should be simple and succinct, you should have no more than two pages and should keep the design fairly classic and elegant unless you are applying for jobs in a creative field (even then, I wouldn't go to over-the-top with this.) Remember, your resume is just to get your foot in the door, you don't want to show up to your interview and have nothing to add to what is on the paper!

Stay tuned for Part II of my Job Searching series!

Warby Parker Winter Collection

I first came across Warby Parker this past summer when I decided it was finally time for me to take the plunge and get some corrective glasses. I didn't want to spend a ton of money because I didn't exactly need glasses - I have good eyesight but sometimes when I am on a computer for too long (everyday), I get headaches and I am pretty sure it's because I am straining my eyes. One of my best friends had a similar issue and she recommended Warby Parker to me because of their cute styles, affordability and their home try-on feature. Not only does Warby Parker offer an affordable and stylish option for prescription glasses, they also partner with some pretty cool non-profits like VisionSpring and have provided glasses to over 1 million people in need as well as trained over 18,000 people to give eye exams and sell the glasses . As someone who doesn't have a huge amount of disposable income I try to be a bit picky about the brands I choose to support and I am always excited to find brands who pay it forward and I think Warby Parker definitely fits the bill.

You can imagine how excited I was when I was contacted by Warby Parker to write a post announcing the launch of their Winter 2014 Collection. The collection features both eyeglasses and sunglasses in confident and classic silhouettes. These classic shapes have been reworked and redesigned to fit in to any Winter wardrobe, from polar vortex and fleece to frost and plaid to chilly sunshine and a cozy sweater.

I'm loving the Keene in Beach Glass but not sure if I can pull them off!

Loving the Laurel Tea Rose in eyeglasses and sunglasses.

There are so many great options; it's going to be hard to choose! Let me know what you guys end up going with:)

Splurge/Save - Fall Basics

The first of November is when it finally starts to feel like fall to me. I know all you east-coasters have been enjoying the colder temperatures for a bit now but over here in Southern California it has been pretty toasty. This past weekend we got our first (much-needed) rain and the temps have dropped a bit which is amazing. For someone who loves cold weather and cozy sweaters I sure do live in the wrong climate. 

Now that the weather is getting a little chillier I have started swapping out my summer clothes for some of my warmer clothing. I can't justify purchasing any of the really amazing coats I've been seeing everywhere for California weather but I definitely do need to make some wardrobe changes (I pretty much live in riding boots and cozy sweaters from now until Spring). I've highlighted my favorite fall items below and included pricier, as well as more affordable, options for each. I started my new job last week (!!!) and having a paycheck again is definitely tempting me to do some shopping! I may treat myself to one or two items but I am really trying to save for the holidays so most of these will just be going on my Christmas wishlist;)

1. Waxed Jacket


2. Chelsea Boots 

3. Comfy Sweater

4. Jogger Sweats

5. Classic Trench

6. Leather Backpack

7. Riding Boots

Sorry some of the images are a little wonky! I've been having some issues with Blogger but will be making the switch to WordPress and my own domain soon!!!