Work Smarter Not Harder || Jenn Lake of Zapwater Communications

“Find 3 Hobbies You Love: One to make you money || One to keep you in shape || And one to be creative.”

If you are new to Cedar & Rush, Work Smarter, Not Harder (WSNH) is a weekly column showcasing Chicago’s leading ladies – think CEO’s, entreprenuers, and everyday women making a difference – and how they work smarter, not harder. I decided upon Monday so we can kick off the week as productive and as motivated as possible. If you love a particular piece of advice or have any tips of your own, please share by tagging#WSNH2015 on Instagram and Twitter.

I am so pleased to welcome Jennifer Lake to today’s Work Smarter Not Harder series! Jenn is the Vice President and creative genius behind Chicago’s top public relation firm, Zapwater Communications. Even longer than Jenn’s roster of dream worthy clients (Vineyard Vines, Gilt.com, Gilt City, Room & Board and Dream Dry to name a few), is her list of industry awards and achievements. You can usually find Jenn at Chicago’s most exclusive events, jet setting and appears as if she just stepped off the runway. Her wardrobe is killer ladies. So without further adieu, I welcome you the lovely Mrs. Lake. Take it away Jenn!

1. What time do you typically get up in the morning?
   Every day is different; sometimes I’m up at 4:30 AM to catch a flight or 6:00 AM for a TV segment.
2. How do you take your coffee and what do you typically eat for breakfast?
   I take it black with two Spendas, and, unfortunately, coffee is my breakfast – it’s a horrible habit! My mornings are packed, so sitting down to eat is the last thing on my mind.
3. Quickly walk us through your morning routine.
   The first thing I do every morning is tell my husband that I love him. It’s the best way to start my day! Next, I check email and respond to media and client inquiries. Once at Zapwater, it’s a flurry of activity – conference calls, meetings, emails, photo shoots, brainstorm sessions, etc.
4. What resources do you use to stay organized and remember tasks?
   Typically, I get organized for the week on Sunday nights. I create detailed weekly to-do lists and highlight notes for my team. My Outlook calendar is my best friend – I color code everything based on events, meetings, calls, deadlines, etc.
5. What mistake do you see people constantly make that they should be aware of? Probably being too quick to point out the faults of others! We are all imperfect and have blind spots. My greatest joy is supporting others.
6. How do you conquer your inbox?
   It’s an everyday battle! The amount of emails I receive throughout the week and weekends would make most professionals run for the hills. Before I leave work, I try to go through all of my emails one last time to respond, delete, and sort the day’s correspondence.
7. How do you format your emails?
   My emails are formal and direct. My first agency boss was a stickler for professional and proper emails. I’ve tried to become more conversational over the years, but I still hear her voice in my head! In fact, for the past 10 years I’ve ended my emails with “All the best.” It’s become such a habit that I forget and sign emails to my family that way. “Hi Dad….. All the best, Jenn.” Yikes!
8. How do you make time for working out and staying healthy?
   I make it a priority to workout. It relieves stress and makes me a tougher, stronger professional. I swear by Flywheel (indoor stadium cycling). The workout has completely transformed my body. I’m indebted to their instructors! On the flipside, I’m striving to maintain healthier eating habits. Proper nutrition is not my forte (see question #2).
9. Any tips for keeping an organized workspace?
   I always say if your desk is a mess, chances are that you are too. I recommend sorting your desk at the end of the day; it’s a great way to ensure a smooth start for the next. Also, invest in colorful, fun organization pieces (e.g. planners, staplers, folders, etc.).
10. What other pieces of advice would you like to share?
    Be authentic, kind and humble. Those qualities are invaluable – the ultimate gems. The moment you lose them, you’re just another bauble in the box.
11. Favorite Apps, Book, Resources, Gadgets, Programs, Websites, Etc.
    * Favorite App: Instagram
    * Favorite Resources: Cision, Radian6, and the Publicity Club of Chicago
    * Favorite Book: The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference by Malcolm Gladwell
    * Favorite Programs: Microsoft Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, Adobe Lightroom
    * Favorite Websites: Fast Company, The Everygirl, WWD, CoolHunting
    * Favorite Gadget: My iPhone and iPad mini

Jenn, thank you so much for taking the time to share your life’s hacks and helping us become more productive. For an extra dose of color, travel and fashion, make it a point to follow her on Instagram. It is one of my favorite IG accounts!

Up Next? Seven time Emmy nominated Host and Executive Producer of 24/7 Chicago, Catie Keogh! You will not want to miss her advice and fun perspective on life. So be sure to mark your calendar’s for next Monday. Until then, expect some other fun round ups, including a great Fork to Fashion tomorrow.

Want more? You can find all Work Smarter Not Harder posts right here.

Photo Credits: Robert Zigmund