Paula’s Past Shapes Her Future

Language and communication impact our lives every day, in both positive and negative ways. The words we use shape our personal brand as well as our relationships. There is no better example this statement then Paula Deen. Within the last month, Deen has gone from Food Network icon to a racist tyrant who demeans her employees. How did this star fall from grace so quickly?

It started when Deen told a prosecutor that she had used the “N” word before. Since she was under oath, one would assume that she was telling the truth. The firestorm then began, with people researching exactly when Deen used the derogatory term throughout her lifetime. A couple of suspected instances from her past came up and quickly she was labeled as a racist. Endorsements disappeared and The Food Network cancelled her show, despite her pleading video apologies to fans and a tearful appearance on The Today Show. Paula Deen’s career as she knows it, is over.

No one should use derogatory terms, regardless of their status as a celebrity or otherwise. Paula Deen is no exception to this statement. However, it appears that this woman’s past is being brought up and her entire reputation is being dragged through the mud. The word she used sounds like it is being taken out of context. Now, let me make this clear: I am not condoning her use of the word or using the word at all. But, in the situation she was in, being held at gunpoint, could anyone blame her for using the word?

We all can sit and speculate if Paula Deen has used the “N” word or other offensive terms in her lifetime. But, she told the truth on the stand that day. She deserves some credit for that. Now, her entire career and life have completed changed, for one alleged mistake that happened 30 years ago. If your life was examined, would you be proud of every word choice you’ve made?

Regardless of what Paula Deen has said or done, the bottom line is your past can come back to haunt you. As a young adult, the actions I take today can and will affect me tomorrow. That is the lesson we all should learn from Paula Deen’s current situation. The words and language we use to communicate whether professionally or in joking around will be judged by others. Words you find inoffensive can potentially bother someone else. If using such a word is questionable in your mind, then just don’t say it.

Unfortunately, Paula Deen learned this lesson the hard way. But, for the rest of us, it is a shining example of how the way we choice to communicate can impact us in the future. Below is Deen’s interview from The Today Show. Do you think she is telling the truth?

Dressing the Part

As mentioned previously, I often contemplate different aspects of the working world. As a young professional just starting out, you want to stand out and prove yourself. This means everything, from big things like completing assignments on time to little things, like how you dress. Whether you like it or not, your image at work absolutely matters.

Dressing professionally is a skill, one that takes time to develop. I am, by no means, a fashion expert. But, in these few short months, I’ve picked up a couple of tips on how to dress the part.

1. Outfit: Absolutely embrace your own style and be comfortable. But comfortable doesn’t translate into sloppy. Make sure you are wrinkle and lint free and without rips or stains. Make sure you match; black and navy blue aren’t the same. Ladies, skirt length is important, watch anything too far above the knee. My biggest secret: the power of the blazer; it instantly dresses up any outfit.

2. Accessories: I love accessorizing my outfits. I try to match my shoes and purse but it isn’t necessarily a must. Shoes shouldn’t be too worn and bags should be able to close, especially if you are a commuter. For jewelry, bold, colorful pieces are fun but keep it balanced. If you have on a big necklace, don’t wear giant earrings. Anything you’d wear (or have worn) to a club is probably out.

3. Hair: My hair has a mind of its own so this is probably the hardest aspect of my image. Keep it simple and tamed, as much as possible. Of course, sometimes the weather gets in the way. For more advice on how to weather-proof your outfit, check out Levo League’s tips. Gentlemen, your facial hair needs to be cleaned up regularly. A modest beard is fine but looking like Wolverine isn’t.

4. Make-up: Again, stay true to your own style but don’t take it too far. You can wear colorful eye shadow but be careful on how much you apply. Check your face before meetings for smudges. If make-up isn’t your thing, that’s fine but face moisturizer is a good idea for men and women alike.

These are just a few tips I found helpful when dressing for the workplace. Before I leave the house each day, I ask myself: Would I want to talk to this person solely based on their appearance. I know that sounds a bit shallow, but how you dress for work does matter. People who don’t know you based their initial judgement off of your appearance. Additionally, dressing well makes you feel empowered and gives you an extra boost in confidence. Your image becomes a part of your personal brand.

Do you agree with my tips above? Is there anything you’d add? Share your thoughts!