You are the company you keep is how the saying goes. Successful women have learned the art of sacrifice, discipline, and all the other good stuff that contributes to success; but in addition to these traits, these women also understand the important role of the people in their lives.

Contrary to what some individuals  force themselves to believe, people really do need people and the need for human interaction is a major part of success. But not only do successful people need to surround themselves with other thriving and hustling folks, there is a need for a range of different people who can inspire and literally help push you to the top.

From the big mouth friend who serves as your unofficial PR person to the hater from high school who wants to see you fail (yes, even haters have a contributing role), successful women usually directly or indirectly have these seven people in their lives.

By Blair Bedford

As a career woman, being prepared for almost anything is key to landing the job you want, keeping and growing in the job you have, or moving on to the next job of your dreams. Another key to career success is putting everything around you in perspective, from the company you keep to the items you keep with you on a daily basis that can be last minute life savers.

What’s in your purse might seem like a personal matter, but making sure you are prepared professionally could begin and end right with what you have in your tote, satchel, hobo, bucket or shoulder bag. Things like your cell phone, keys and wallet are essentials in your purse for your everyday life, but keep these items in mind when you put your career success in perspective.

Business cards

Business cards are a necessity for any professional to carry around at all times. Whether you are hitting the gym, the office or even the bar after work, keeping your professional business card on you wherever you go (and plenty of them) helps you network successfully whenever the opportunity comes across. You never know when someone will surprisingly ask you the question outside of a networking event: “Do you have a card?” If your company doesn’t have the option to order business cards for you, many websites help you design and create your own for easy networking-on-the-go.