Happy Monday from The Urban Executive Magazine, the elite business and lifestyle magazine where we delve into the lives of influential professionals shaping the modern world. Today, we are delighted to have Erika Linnevers, a financial representative at Northwestern Mutual, sharing her unique journey and insights. Erika's focus on optimizing financial practices and navigating tax loopholes sets her apart in the industry. Originating from a real estate background in California, her transition to Northwestern Mutual was driven by a desire to actively assist her peers in achieving homeownership goals. In this exclusive interview, Erika not only discusses her professional journey but also sheds light on her distinctive approach to fashion in the corporate world. Known for her remarkable sense of style, Erika shares how she infuses her personality into her wardrobe, embodying what she terms the "corporate girlie." Join us as we explore the intersection of finance, fashion, and personal empowerment with Erika Linnevers.
The Urban Executive: Could you please introduce yourself?
Erika Linnevers: Hello, I'm Erika Linnevers, a financial representative at Northwestern Mutual.
The Urban Executive: Interesting, what does that entail?
Erika Linnevers: Northwestern Mutual is often associated with life insurance, but my focus is on exploring the most effective strategies for building net worth and navigating tax loopholes. In essence, I specialize in optimizing financial practices for individuals.
The Urban Executive: What led you to enter the corporate world?
Erika: Initially, my journey began in real estate in California. Starting at a young age, it became clear that many in my warm market weren't ready to buy homes. Rather than just being a passive standby resource with the message "talk to me when you're ready," I decided to dial it back and thought about how I could actively assist my friends in achieving their homeownership goals. This realization eventually led me to Northwestern.
The Urban Executive: What currently motivates and inspires you?
Erika: Honestly, my inspiration now comes from showcasing my dedication to the work I do. I take pride in assisting those in need and believe that by sharing the blessings I've received, I can, in turn, help others.
The Urban Executive: Your office style has been lauded for its impeccable flair. Could you guide us through your approach to fashion in a corporate setting and how it reflects your personality?
Erika: I do have a background in fashion which definitely helps. I went to school at the fashion institute of design and merchandising so fashion has kind of being instilled in me. And I think that being able to carry over my bright personality into my clothing helps showcase the heart and spirit I invest in my work. Whether it's adding a pop of color with a red blazer or vibrant shoes, even a touch of pink, it's my way of presenting a typical corporate outfit with a personal flair. Despite some conversations being less cheerful or appearing daunting, I believe there's always a light at the end of every tunnel, and I aim to reflect that optimism through both my clothing choices and the work I do with my clients.
The Urban Executive: Â How do you define the term corporate girlie?
Erika: Being a corporate girlie is such an empowering term in my books. It's a way of being able to express yourself in professional way, like a boss girl or a baddie. It's an expressive term to showcase feminine power within the corporate and business world, focusing not just on looks but intellect and personality.
The Urban Executive: Â How does the term "corporate girlie" align with your personal and professional identity?
Erika: It resonates with me because it gives me a sense that the work I'm doing is not just about personal growth, its also contributing to helping others. Taking on and owning that corporate girlie title honestly motivates me through out my day to day work efforts.
The Urban Executive: Â Being a corporate girlie suggests a balance between femininity and corporate prowess. How do you navigate the fine line between maintaining a professional demeanor and expressing your personal style and personality in the workplace?
Erika: I think it depends on the people you're around, first and foremost, and the impression you want to convey to others. Personally, it's influenced by the clients I work with and who they expect to see. Will they expect to see me in a business suit or something more business casual? It really depends on my client, their expectations, and the nature of our interaction. If I need to show up in certain meetings in an approachable manner as a friend, then I might down dress myself a little bit to make sure they don't feel uncomfortable during the conversation. Conversely, for a strictly business setting, I'm ready to elevate my look with a blazer, heels, and slacks. It's about aligning with the context and goals of our time together.
The Urban Executive: Â As a financial representative, attention to detail is crucial. How does this meticulous approach extend to your wardrobe choices, and are there any special elements you prioritize in your corporate looks?
Erika: That's a great question. As a financial rep, details are indeed super important. One amusing observation from my experience is that clients often pay attention to your wrist. So, for me, that's a significant consideration; making sure to wear my rings and watch. Jewelry plays a significant role in my corporate fashion, as it's these subtle touches that can make a big difference in client interactions.
The Urban Executive: Â Can we see what you have on your wrists now? Give us the run down.
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Erika: I have Bulova watch that my girlfriend bought me for Christmas, David Yurman ring with some diamonds in them. And then I have a blue topaz and opal ring from a private personal Jeweler, Baruch Kaufman that's one of my favorites and then a gold wavy bent ring on my left.
The Urban Executive: Can you share a challenging moment in your career and how your resilience helped you overcome it?
Erika: The most significant challenge I've faced involved working with people I knew personally. Balancing the professional and personal aspects was a delicate line to tread. In the beginning, conveying the importance, especially to females, was tough. Many believed that family finances were solely their husbands' concern. I had to navigate this view delicately and refrain from expressing my disagreement outright. It required patience and strategic communication to make them reconsider their perspective. The best thing you can do at that point is to just provide the resources, because in this business, it's up to the client to do what they want to do. So all I can do is hope that I educated them well enough
The Urban Executive: The corporate world is evolving and embracing diversity and individuality. How do you see personal style influencing the landscape of professional identity, especially for women in leadership?
Erika: For women in leadership, I would love to see a huge uproar in expressing individual personalities through outfit choices. It's notable that even as females in the corporate world, the attire often mirrors that of men—blouses, slacks, loafers, and a business top. And I know you are probably not wearing that on the weekend, let alone anywhere else besides the office. So I would love to see people adding their personalities, whether that is certain types of jewelry; if you like pearls, making that your statement versus just your typical neutral color palette. I'm staring at this guy outside with a purple pink peacoat, adding in something like that, Because that's business, but if you were to wear it with some jeans, that'll be dressed down, or put some slacks on that. If you have a vibrant personality, add that into your wardrobe. Being able to read people based on their fashion choices will carry on over into the business world because then you can understand a little bit more about the type of person you are dealing with.
The Urban Executive: How would you describe your style outside the office?
Erika: It's entirely mood-dependent. I consider myself a mood styler rather than adhering to a specific fashion genre. If I'm feeling vibrant, I might go for a relaxed and beachy look. On a night out to a show, I could lean towards a more grungy vibe—imagine a little black dress paired with Dr. Martens. If the weather is bright, birds are chirping, and the air is crisp, you might spot me in a sundress and heels. On lazy days, I tend to embrace a tomboy style, opting for jeans, sweatpants, Jordans, and a hoodie.
The Urban Executive:The ultimate corporate girly exudes confidence and success. What advice would you give to young professionals, especially women, who aspire to leave their mark in the corporate world while staying true to themselves?
Erika: Keep pushing—I know it's a common mantra in the business world, but it holds true. No matter how many times you face rejection or encounter setbacks, don't be disheartened. Move on to the next opportunity. I've faced my fair share of challenges, and with each setback, I've learned, adapted, and turned it into an advantage for the future.