The other day, a friend asked me to talk to a former colleague of hers who is looking to transition from a career in broadcast journalism to a more fitting job in public relations. Having made that exact transition, I lended an ear and some advice on what I think were the best tools to effectively make a career change as seamless as possible. Then she asked me a question that I get almost daily. "How did you get such a gigantic network?" I've compiled a list of how I've acquired a loyal worldwide network heading into my 30s and hope that it will help others grow their network!
1. Start Early. When you're young, make sure you take up a hobby that gives you the opportunity to travel and meet new people. At the age of 13, I went to a Jewish summer camp in California for one month where I met many friends who I still talk to today. Notably, the amazing Zahava Abend who is quite the mover and shaker herself in New York City.
2. Study Abroad. If you travel internationally, then you've automatically gained a worldwide network. Make it a point to study abroad in high school or college. I spent 3 months in Israel with the Alexander Muss High School in Israel Program during my junior year of high school.
3. Attend an out-of-state university. I think this may just be the most important thing a young person can do to help grow their network. I understand many people are unable to afford the cost of out of state tuition but if you are bent on a career in PR, Journalism, or International Business, then I truly believe it will pay off in the long run. I went 3000 miles away by attending the University of Miami and it just may have been the best decision of my life (going to UM meant not knowing a single soul when I stepped into the state of Florida).
4. Find a career outside your hometown. If you are financially unable to go out-of-state (which is totally reasonable with skyrocketing tuition!) for school, make it a point to find your first, second, or third career outside of your hometown. My boyfriend did just that when he left Ohio to work for Microsoft. It not only tripled his network but abled him to get involved with organizations more fitting to his personality.
5. Be Aggressive. I didn't get my network by being lazy. A person is a person and whether that's the CFO of a Fortune 50 company or the secretary at your office, if you think your time is precious and have a great message then someone WILL listen.
6. Don't Be Afraid To Ask. I never feel bad asking those individuals with a better network than I do in certain aspects of media and industry to connect me to their network. As my Mom says, "if you don't ask, you don't get."
7. Utilize Social Media. I think LinkedIn is the most brilliant tool for networking and its helped me immensly in PR. Facebook and Twitter are great but LinkedIn is built entirely for expanding your network. So use it! It's free!
 The University of Miami campus in Coral Gables, FL.
This past week, I had the tremendous opportunity to visit with the NYC fashion elite. Two days of back to back meetings helped me compile this list of what you'll most likely find trending in jewelry this coming fall. As the fashion publicist for Blue Nile, we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality in fine jewelry.  Cuffs
They are here to stay. We had an incredible outpouring from the editors of Marie Claire, VOGUE and W over our 18k Gold Cuff. Available this October. (Photography courtesy of Blue Nile)
 Stackable Rings
Still very hot. And especially note the mixing of metals; combining rose gold, yellow gold and white gold. We're even seeing women mix it up with their wedding bands. The Merch teams knows what I have my eye on for holiday season. Available this October. (Photography courtesy of Blue Nile)
Cocktail Rings
I didn't meet one editor that wasn't all over our cocktail rings. Frankly, they're bold and make a statement. We even have a few notable pieces that retail for around $150-$250. Let's just say that Oprah snatched up those samples. Available this October (Photography courtesy of Blue Nile)
 Gold & Black Diamonds
The Chandelier Earrings (right) are incredibly delicate and with gold rising to around $1800 an ounce, it may just be your best investment. Also, look for black diamonds (left) to continue trending. They're traditionally 40% cheaper than regular diamonds and when combined, truly a sight for sore eyes. Available this October. (Photography courtesy of Blue Nile)
As the sun rises on this Sunday morning, I am reminded that high in the sky and heavens above is the soul and spirit of my dear friend Russell. Russell Patrick Latham was taken from us way too soon, during a year where his dream of being nominated for an Emmy came true. I do not know a single person who did not feel touched by the kindness and unconditional love that emanated from Russell. My friend, you are greatly missed but we are all better people because of the gifts you shared with us. I've asked a few of Russell's friends to share some words about the legacy he left.
This kind, beautiful man opened his home while we were in college and took care of me. I had many generous friends at Baylor whom I adore but Russell was one of those who was extra special. Mostly, he made me laugh in the darkest of times. His Humor was epic, along with his heart. A few of us were invited to his house for a dinner and sleepover on Easter. That morning, we all woke up to the most beautiful Easter baskets you could want. It was like Christmas. Not to mention - we ALL had the best hair at Baylor. Can you imagine having Russell as you own person stylist....for free??! He was a gem, a jewel, a kind and lovely man.He will be greatly missed. God Bless you my friend. Thank you for being one of my angels in school and in life. - Patricia Singerar
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"Grab a comb, run around, and ACT busy" Russell would joke to me about working in Hollywood. Russell was one of the most amazing and unforgettable people I have ever met in my entire life. The minute I met him I knew he was a special friend. Words can't describe how saddened I am for the loss of such unbelievable talent and a great friend. The world and the beauty industry won't be the same without him. I love and miss u dearly Russell. - Betsy Reyes
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It was an honor to have had the chance to work and know you, I wouldn't have missed it for the world. You never got dirty, but I did get a picture of you once when you got your hands in color doing Linda's eye brows. We all Laughed "Russell got dirty" . God bless you..... - Gigi Marie Folio
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When I met Russell in the fall of 1979, we were freshmen in the Theatre Dept. of Baylor University. He quickly pointed out to me that we had something in common.....we both had come from very priviledged homes. He used to say, "Isn't is great being young, rich AND beautiful?!" Last October at a Baylor Theatre Reuion (BUT) reunion he gave me one of his famous hugs and said, "Well darling, at least we still have our beauty!!" We spent our years at Baylor together... studying, learning, rehearsing, partying, laughing, crying, traveling and bleaching hair together. (He did the bleaching!) He was always larger than life. And possibly THE most generous person I have ever known. Ten years ago, at another BUT reunion, he encouraged me to live the life I was meant to live, not the life that I thought I was suppose to live for everyone else. He asked me, "What are you waiting for?" I went home and took his words to heart. My entire life changed. Russell was a catalyst for change in my life. He is, in part, the reason that I am now a graduate nurse with a BSN. Russell, thank you for your friendship. You are loved and missed by many people, including me. - Cathy White
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There will be a ceremony for Russell in Los Angeles on September 10, 2011. Also, please tune into America's Got Talent this week as I have heard the show will be putting together a special tribute in honor of Russell.
I seldom talk about the things I don't like. This doesn't mean they don't exist. It just means I'd rather talk up the things I love instead. Earlier this afternoon, my lovely friend Ashley reminded me why I'm an open book. It's simply because I share it all - the good and the bad, no questions asked. So the following is my opinion and mine alone. Please DO NOT take offense if you are a lover of the trends I loathe. It just means we probably won't be going shopping together anytime soon. I still like you though.
Feathers in the hair.
Who started this awful trend that put fly fishing stores on high alert? Was it you Steven Tyler? I'd steer clear of taking fashion advice from a guy who has been under the knife one too many times. American Idol Season 10 is O-V-E-R. And dear God, please take this trend with it.
T-Shirts with Sayings.
You have twitter, facebook, the entire blogosphere, and your friends to share that you'd like to someday be "Mrs. Timberlake." There's no need to profess it to the bus driver, barista or bum on 3rd and Pine. Yes, I've even bought my boyfriend a t-shirt with a saying. Guilty as charged.
Jean skirt and UGG Boots.
I don't get it. Is it summer, winter or are you confused? It doesn't matter actually, you look utterly ridiculous. We've given the Australians another reason to chastise us "stupid Americans." Pretty girls. Ugly trend.
My boyfriend will be the first to tell you that on the MANY days when I'm pressed for time with multiple meetings ahead and a laundry list of phone calls, emails and things-to-do, I will never take more than 30 minutes to get ready. That's precisely the time it takes me from the moment I hit the shower to walking out the door coffee in hand. Yes, I'm one of those gals that lets my naturally wavy hair dry wet and applies my make up hastily. I call it my Glam Up with a Make-Down.
Now, I'm pretty good at this routine and I give credit to the many products that make me feel beautiful "from start to finish in less than 30 minutes." (Yes, I stole that from Rachael Ray.)
 Goldwell Dual Senses Color Shampoo
Thanks to my colorist Diny Ruiz, I'm addicted to this shampoo line.
Fun Fact: Robert Leonard Salon not only sells the products but also uses the German line's color and toner products.
 Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler
Anyone who tells you that this isn't the best eyelash curler on the market has no idea what they are talking about.
Fun Fact: The Japanese skincare line is not only in high-end department stores but also sells on Amazon.com.
 Lip Smackers Dr. Pepper Chapstick
This has been my go-to chapstick since 1995. Available only at Target.
Fun Fact: I've developed an immunity to Dr. Pepper.
 Redken Hardware Super 16 Strong Gel
Dabble a dime size amount into your naturally wavy hair while it's wet and voila "You have bouncy buoyant curls!"
Fun Fact: Using a dime size amount five days a week will last you at least 2 years.
 Matahari Luminous - After Tan Moisturizer
This anti-aging lotion smells delicious and I'll gladly credit my daily usage to a southern belle from Alabama.
Fun Fact: Special firming botanicals improve skin texture, virgin hemp seed oil moisturizes skin and toning agents extend tan.
 NARS Powder Blush Cheek Color in Orgasm
You can't fake this. I've never seen this color look bad on fair, olive, or dark skin. I'm a huge fan of the NARS packaging and a little of this blush goes a long way.
Fun Fact: This product is a favorite among beauty writers and Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, Autumn Reeser and Whitney Port among others.
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