Women, don't ruin your careers by falling into five traps common to the fairer sex. They only make you look bad and distract from your true character and worth. Instead, learn from the mistakes of a few high profile women who showed all working females what not to do on the job.
1. Dressing too sexy.
Unless you work for Vogue, dressing too sexy will work against you. Just ask Debrahlee Lorenzana. This curvaceous, single mother "allegedly" touted her triple D cups around Citibank in clingy clothes distracting male workers and customers. In time, she grew weary of their stares and wanted more respect. She even filed a few complaints. Consequently, her concerns fell on deaf ears and eventually led to her dismissal. Fair? Probably not. But, in this culture, you can't show your goods in a professional environment without getting a backlash.
2. Being a drama queen.
Star Jones is probably one of the best-known hosts of the TV show called The View, but not because of her wit or interview style. Like many women that ruin their careers, she squashed hers by creating conflict. After being on the show for several successful seasons, she finally tackled two challenges: weight loss and marriage. Unfortunately, neither seemed to bring out the best in her. Not only did she lie about how she shed her excess pounds, she also began acting like a 'bridezilla' using her good name to make demands and get freebies for her pending wedding. Her behavior ended up turning fans against her, which led to the end of a very lucrative job. Word to the wise: leave your drama for your mama.
3. Getting hooked on drugs.
At one time, Lindsay Lohan was the go-to girl for movies aimed at youth. She made herself a household name with her acting, singing and genuine personality. The only complaint hurled by media surrounded her stage mother and "unique" father. Yet, now, all of this has changed. Her addiction to drugs and alcohol transformed her persona and ability to do jobs. Today, the public knows her for her visits to rehab and jail. Needless to say, her career is down the drain. Yours will be too if you allow mind altering substances take over your life.
4. Relying too much on charm.
Who could forget when Sarah Palin first came out as a Republican candidate for Vice President? Initially, women everywhere paused and smiled. She was attractive and poised. The only problem was she didn't make a habit of doing her homework. As with some women, she ended up ruining her career relying too much on her charm. Instead of researching the issues, she memorized coined rhetoric and tried to wing several public appearances. Sadly, her lack of knowledge came out during interviews and was very embarrassing. In the end, she hurt herself and presidential candidate John McCain. We all know what happened next - they lost the election.
5. Give up control to others.
Too afraid to control your own destiny? Be ready for a fall or at least a laughable journey. When reality TV star Heidi Montag first hit the scene, she was fresh-faced and likeable. This actress and wannabe singer reminded her fans of the typical girl that loved fashion. But, only a year later after hooking up with the man she'd eventually marry - Spencer Pratt - her image and career took an ugly turn. Spencer convinced Heidi to make a shoddy video, go under the knife and leave the show that made her famous. Fast-forward to today, Heidi's money is "allegedly" gone and her fame is based on a lot of jokes and pitiful sighs. Could she have messed up her Hollywood career in this way without the help of her hubby? Yes, but at least, the mess would be her own.
These five snares are ones women get stuck in that ruin their careers. Look out the examples associated with each and avoid damaging your own.
Sources:
2. ETonline.com
4. AFP.com
5. Examiner.com
