As part of our special Month of the Man features, BlackEnterprise.com is featuring career content tailored especially for males of color.
If you've stepped across that stage and have finally landed a job, congrats to you. You've made it. Now it's time to get ready for the first day in the office. There are some things that every power player needs to win in his profession. From blazers to speakers, these items will make your life easier and keep you looking good at the same time. ---Joshua PerrinA nice, fitted blazer ...According to GQ Magazine, a blazer is one of the most important pieces of a man's wardrobe. Try a gray, black, or blue to start. One of these colors allows more versatility in your wardrobe. A great one like this Liz Claiborne linen piece will go well for morning meetings and after hour hotspots. The cut of the blazer is everything; for a slimmer fit try the Italian cut, while the British cut favors a more athletic physique
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A reliable GPS for those long business trips ...
According to a review of About.com's business travel channel, Garmin GPS was cited as the number one GPS system to use. In addition to being thin, the unit has a highly-sensitive touch screen, with multi-touch capabilities (like an iPhone) for pinching or zooming. You can find this system at BestBuy starting at $86.more
The right bag ...
A messenger bag is the perfect way to bridge the transition from a backpacks to briefcases. You can find them as cheap as $23 on Target.com. Find one with multiple pockets so that you can separate important work-related papers from your personal journals and schedules.
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File sharing gadgets
File sharing equipment can be essential for a quick exchange of information your hurried morning commutes. The iTwin is a double-sided flash drive that allows you to plug two devices up at the same time, without the hassle of passwords and uploading/saving. As an Apple product it is $199, and can be found on iTwin.com. more
Telling time the classic way
I know, a watch is not necessarily the first item we think about because we're so reliant on our cell phones. But, a nice professional watch has been a staple in men's fashion for centuries. Try a simple faced on with a leather band, like the one found here. Prices vary. more
Personal shoe-shine kits
A pair of black and brown loafers or lace-ups are standard in the office place, but let's not forget the importance of shoe maintenance. Investing in a solid shoe-shine kit is a quick solution to the scuffs and wear and tear of your favorite pair. Kits can be found for a cheap at $30. This one from Nordstrom includes brushes, extra polish and a small stand to work on.more
Back up battery power
Our Smartphones seem to be in need of a charge all the time considering the frequency with which we use them. This problem can be solved with an extra power source such as the Kensington Pocket Battery. The Pocket Battery Pack for Smartphones adds 3.5 hours of additional talk time, and has both mini and micro USB charging cables as well as a USB charging tip built right in for recharging so there are no parts to lose.
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The little things are essential
Neckties, cufflinks, pocket squares and socks can change the presentation of a plain white button down. Adding one of these items can make make your outfits appear new and different. Stay on the lookout for creative cufflinks like these or a striking tie with different designs. AskMen.com suggests men buy new socks every six months, so don't be hesitant to pick up a new pair every now and then.more
A set of office-friendly speakers
Speakers like the JBL Flip are a great accessory to add to your desk. The compact portable Bluetooth speaker is designed to be used horizontally or vertically. It sounds good and plays loudly for its size, has speakerphone capabilities, and ships with a neoprene carrying case. You can grab one for $100.
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A good line-up ...
Every now and then you want to maintain consistent stubble and theRemington Ultimate Stubble Trimmer Lithium Ion is the tool to do it. The lithium power source in this product ensures hours of battery life and the digital display allows you to accurately set length preferences. It also features multiple interchangeable heads. This one starts at $73.95 and can be found atThe Good Guys.more