9 books you should be reading Memorial Day weekend

9 books you should be reading Memorial Day weekend9 books you should be reading Memorial Day weekendNeed a getaway during Memorial Day Weekend? Maybe youre not heading off for a quick vacation but trapped at home hoping for brighter, warmer weather than what springs had to offer.Here are nine nonfiction and fiction book recommendations that you can read wherever you are this Memorial Day weekend.Orange World and Other Stories by Karen Russell (Amazon)KnopfThe Pulitzer Prize finalist (Swamplandia) is a master of twisting reality into imagination. Her third short story collection dives into wackier premises like The Bad Graft, where a woman becoming infected by a Joshua tree after visiting a national park. Others stories tackle more magical realism through ways of tornado auctions and falling in love with a 2,000-year-old bog girl. The stories length makes them quick reads before dinner, but long enough to keep you thinking well after.Spring by Ali Smith (Amazon)PantheonWhileSpring is the third entry in Smiths seasonal quartet of novels, her latest installment, likeAutumn andWinter, can be read as a standalone work. The Scottish novelists focuses on modern Britain and the worlds current affairs like climate change, Brexit, and many others. Spring takes another turn at the news through todays migrant crisis and nationalism through four characters from different generations.Outside Looking In by T.C. Boyle (Amazon)EccoIn his 17th () novel, Boyles new trippy novel explores LSDs mind-alerting possibilities. Part historical fiction, the novel centers around a young graduate student who falls under renowned psychologist and psychedelic drug wiz Timothy Learys magic. He leaves school and follows Leary around through an LSD-induced adventure.My Friends by Emmanuel Bove (Amazon)NYRB ClassicsA lonely World War I veteran searches for a friend or some schriftart of connection in postwar Paris. First published in 1924, the New York Review Books edition brings Boves first and arguably most famous work back to life.K A History of Baseball in Ten Pitches by Tyler Kepner (Amazon)DoubledayWhether youre a baseball junky or just someone interested in something really particular, Kepner delivers a nasty hook to hook anyone. The New York Times baseball columnist interviewed nearly two dozen Hall of Famers to ask them about insights on the pitches that helped fame their careers. From fastballs and screwballs to spitballs and knucklers, Kepner details the dynamics and history in which pitchers have mastered their craft.From Scratch A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home by Tembi Locke (Amazon)Simon SchusterLockes memoir explores food, love, and tragedy through an Italian backdrop. Recently pegged as Reese Witherspoons latest book in her HelloSunshine book club, Witherspoon called it a beautiful memoir that also has lots and lots of Italian food. Sounds good to us.The Ghost Ships of Archangel The Arctic Voyage That Defied the Nazis by William Geroux (Amazon)Pe nguinFor history buffs, William Geroux delivers another World War II hit. He takes readers to the multinational convoy PQ-17, which sailed through ice-filled waters to deliver supplies to Soviet allies in WWII. Aside from dodging dangerous sailing conditions, the 35-ship convoy had to escape another nightmare pursuing German bombers and U-boats. The acclaimed author of The Mathews Men delivers another adventure through one of WWII wartime.Working by Robert Caro (Amazon)KnopfCaros works on Robert Moses and multi-volume work of Lyndon Johnson are considered the gold standard for biographies. In a series of essays and interviews, Caro shares details behind the research and interviews that make the deeply committed and focused writer. Its for those interested in power, history, and how we tell stories.Becoming Dr. Seuss Theodor Geisel and the Making of an American Imagination by Brian Jay Jones (Amazon)DuttonAmerican icon Theodor Geisel, best known as Dr. Seuss, was loved by millions fo r delivering childrens classics like the Grinch, green eggs and ham, and countless others. Becoming Dr. Seuss captures the man behind the brilliant imagination. The lengthy biography (496 pages) draws upon Geisels steps before becoming Dr. Seuss and takes the reader on a behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of Americas complicated geniuses, a must for all Dr. Seuss lovers.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

How men and women can navigate the workday in style

How men and women can navigate the workday in styleHow men and women can navigate the workday in styleBusiness casual has become the new norm, sweeping through the workplace with its comfortable yet professional style. While this growing trend is less formal than the traditional corporate attire, that doesnt mean its any less put together.There is a delicate balance between formal and casual - one that must be weighed carefully to achieve a look that gives the right impression while providing all-day comfort. When it comes to perfecting the business casual look, there isnt one single rule. The style will vary depending on the industry and its environment. However, it is crucial for both men and women to pull off this look because of its impact on their social stellung and everyday performance.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moreFor women, in particular, business casual attire can b e a diverse, ambiguous concept, making it difficult for them to pinpoint specific dos and donts. The options are nearly endless, with many of them contingent on current trends, industry or work environment.Yet, despite the seemingly dizzying choices, women should pursue the right style because of its ability to influence their career and personality in professional surroundings. In todays highly competitive corporate environment, appearances speak volumes, so the power of proper fashion apparel shouldnt be overlooked.To succeed in the modern workplace, the following key workwear elements can be implemented to enhance a womans professional status and advancementProfessional attireIndustry, job title, and local climate are some of the factors that inspire professional attire. Traditionally, men wore dark suits, neckties, white shirts, etc., while women opted for suits, skirts, and tights or stockings. But the new trend in business casual has upheaved this old scenario, giving people t he freedom to experiment and be creative with their personal style.Women can now access more motivating and enjoyable fashion pieces, but that doesnt mean their selections shouldnt be carefully considered. The choice of colors is especially important since it can easily send the wrong message. Apparel that is too bright will turn heads and attract attention for the wrong reasons, conveying a negative impression of the person wearing the clothes.In the workplace, business casual should be stylish yet subdued, and now that the top fashion brands are replacing the voreingestellt dark, grim suits and dresses with trendsetting casual styles that catch the eye, this is becoming much easier for both men and women to accomplish.Dressing for an interviewEmployers no longer expect women to wear full formal suits at job interviews. A great tip to nail the interview look is to mix elements of both formal and informal wear.A woman can certainly wear a blazer, skirt or pants, but doesnt have to c ombine them all to achieve the right look. A professional pencil skirt, for instance, can go well with a simple cardigan. The best way to determine the perfect attire is to dress for the job and industry that is being applied for.In some cases, donning a full suit may be the ideal choice. And again, colors play an important role. For job interviews, it is recommended to stick with neutral tones such as black, gray, navy, brown, beige or white because a mlange of varying colors may distract and make an unfavorable first impression.White collar vs. blue collarRegardless of the industry, both white collar and blue collar jobs require employees to spend a significant amount of time without rest or downtime. Employees that dress comfortably will ultimately perform better, but this isnt always possible for white collar workers who are subjected to standard formal dress codes that compromise comfort and mobility.Traditional dress standards can also create a slew of problems that interfere with day-to-day productivity. Bracelets can jingle while typing, disrupting colleagues, while wearing stiletto heels can cause long-term health problems. Thats why the new business casual is the perfect alternative to rigid clothing rules. Adopting this trend enables employees to look professional while performing their tasks with added comfort and ease of movement.Modern business casualContemporary business casual requires some thought before getting dressed. To look stylish yet professional and tidy, the right choice needs to be made. Wearing expensive brands isnt the most viable option, and neither is donning a strapless dress and flip-flops. Instead, women can opt for a wide range of tops that are fashionable without being too revealing.As for men, a sports coat with tailored slacks and an open-collared shirt will go a long way in a white-collar business casual environment.Some important things to keep in mindWhatever the job or industry, the most important aspect to consider wh en adopting modern business casual attire is to wear clothing that will reflect confidence and intelligence, and incite respect. Doing so will create a positive image of ones personality and send the right message to colleagues, clients, and superiors. Wearing apparel that is too fancy, sloppy, lazy or distressed will hinder an employees professional growth and let others know he or she shouldnt be taken seriously.On the same token, clothing should be well fitted because items that hang off the body or cling too much will give the impression that appearance isnt a priority, thus turning people away from crucial work connections and collaboration. The business casual dress code should also not be limited to clothing because accessories can enhance any outfit. The key is to use them correctly. An expensive diamond wristwatch, for instance, would not go well with a casual style.When it comes to special events that require travel, it is essential to dress to impress - possibly donning a more traditional formal attire - since most professional affairs are a representation of the business itself. Similarly, corporate environments such as those of the finance or legal industries may also require employees to adopt this formal style. On the other hand, tech startups or construction businesses may encourage their team members to implement the business casual trend. But in all circumstances, a womans best look is her confidence, and this, she should wear with pride and dignity no matter where she goes.Mehri Babayeva is the Founder and CEO of Maraley, an elegant line of made-to-measure womens attire that celebrates female beauty, charm, and intuition in a professional way. From business formal to business casual, Maraley caters to the needs of modern women by offering a wide range of styles and personalized outfits that embrace their individuality.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the firs t seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

Our Best Advice for Advancing Your Career During the Holidays

Our Best Advice for Advancing Your Career During the HolidaysOur Best Advice for Advancing Your Career During the HolidaysDont neglect your career this holiday seasonWhether youre searching for a job or looking to advance your career, the holidays offer plenty of opportunities if you know where to look. Below are some of my favorite tips for making the fruchtwein of the holiday season, from managing your brand to uncovering new job leads.Capitalize on the holiday hiring mythMany believe companies do little hiring in December, but HR execs call it a myth. December may in fact be your best chance to get hired, so get your application in. Click on the following link to learn more about the holiday hiring myth and what you can do to capitalize on this misconception.Leverage the holidays for job-search successThe job market doesnt take the holidays off and neither should you. While your competition is busy sipping eggnog, take advantage of this opportunity to move your job-search efforts ahead. Click on the following link to learn how to capitalize on the holiday season to benefit your job search.Network your way through the holidaysThe holidays are an especially great time to put your networking skills to work. Whether its a corporate event or a get-together with friends and family, each gathering offers an opportunity to advance your career or job search. Learn how to make the most of these events with our holiday networking survival guide.Protect your brand from holiday mishapsWho says you cant network at work? Play your cards right and your corporate holiday party becomes a great chance to network with colleagues you dont normally see and build up your professional brand. Click on the following link to learn how to keep your reputation intact at work functions, and keep your career headed in the right direction.Do some damage control for a holiday party mishapIt can take years to build up your professional brand at your organization and only one night and a fe w too many drinks to severely damage it. Click on the following link to learn how to repair your reputation after a holiday party blunder.