This series was originally posted on my blog: http://attorneyscounselny.com/blog/ on Wednedsays in November. I will be re-posting them here, on 85Broads, later...see the reference to Halloween candy...

Welcome to Matinee Wednesday. 1980-1989 was the era of big hair, big dreams and great movies. Take a break from work and grab some leftover Halloween candy.

Working Girl (1988)

Tess McGill is a frustrated secretary, struggling to forge ahead in the world of big business in New York. She gets her chance when her boss breaks her leg on a skiing holiday. McGill takes advantage of her absence to push ahead with her career. She teams up with investment broker Jack Trainer to work on a big deal. The situation is complicated after the return of her boss. Written by Sami Al-Taher <staher2000@yahoo.com>

LESSON: A few of the most important business lessons are in this movie. Don't lie, dress the part and do not let those in power take your ideas.

• Lying is never a good idea, as we learned from another classic movie, but taking advantage of opportunities as they arise is often good business practice. It is important to prove yourself at work, however, the sexual harassment and fashion crimes in this movie can not be excused.
• One of the most important business lessons is to stand up for yourself and not allow yourself to be taken advantage of. As Katherine, the boss, says, "You make it happen." What she didn't mention was that she thought "you" meant her and not anyone else. There will inevitably be someone ready to knock you down and take credit for your work. Be smart and as quickly as possible take steps to remedy the situation.
• Tess knew that if she didn't dress the part she would not be taken seriously. Literally wearing your boss's clothes is not the best idea but dressing and acting like you deserve the respect the boss is due can change your career.