Dreaming Big & Manifesting Your Hustle Into Something More

Kat Lane started working at a very young age and she hasn't stopped the hustle since. We caught up with the Miami-based radio host, creative director, and musician to ask about balance, hustle and working with clothing brand QPED Life. 

She's got the right attitude when it comes to achieving your dreams. 

You started working when you were 12. Can you give us a little bit about your background and what compelled you to start so early? 

It all started on the dance floor. As far back as I can remember I was dancing, acting, and on stage, and because I grew up around people who worked hard at what they loved - I got used to working hard for what I wanted to do from early on.  Age 12 was a big year for me in that I booked my first commercial, I wrote my first song, and recorded the song.  I started pursing my love for dancing, singing, and acting on a level where I was actually making money (imagine that!).  It was definitely a progressive build, but since I was 12, I remember equating the whole "if you do what you love, you'll never work a day of your life" perspective to the fact that I loved expressing myself through music and motivation.

From microphone to desk. How have you balanced the line of creative and business woman?

There are a couple factors here, the first is knowing the importance of working hard and having a willingness to expand your boundaries and grow on different levels.  When I study people I consider "great" at what they do (or did), and see the amount of tenacity, persistence, patience, and ingenuity it took for them to achieve their goals, I clearly understand what I'm taking on, and that it requires both a creative and practical approach. My team at Sound Business Recordings and at QPED Life are branding experts, and have always urged me to stay focused on both aspects (creative and business), as one could not exist without the other.  

The second factor is in having an awesome support system between my family and the awesome company I get to work with.  There's nothing better than to have a team that finds importance and value in the same things you yourself do - and also a team that cares for each other and has each others' backs.  

So what is your role with QPED Life?

I started with QPED Life when it was just a concept that Sean Sloan had created.  The original thought was to create something positive and meaningful in entertainment, and digestible for anyone with an ambition to succeed and be the most they can be.  The concept evolved into the song "QPED", which I sang and recorded, and which contains a lot of the sentiment of what has become the brand QPED Life - ambition, heart, focus, forward movement, honesty to oneself.  Once I really understood the mantras and what the brand stood for, and started seeing the initial apparel designs, I was completely on-board.

I currently consult with QPED Life on the creative side, advising on garments/cuts/fabrics as well as current and future fashion trends. I'll be overseeing our upcoming music program, which you'll hear more about in Q2 of next year, and I'm also a Brand Ambassador for the line.  Basically I get to offer my ideas and expertise/vision of what is possible with the brand - from a variety of angles.   

And why was it important for you to take on another role? 

The entertainment industry is kind of like a creative garden - you can keep planting different herbs/plants/varietals, and they all feed off of the same energy and stem from the same roots.  What I've done and continue to do in music - makes the garden more interesting from the outside as well as internally.  For example, when I'm searching for new records to play in my radio mix, I get music from all over the world.  A great artist is like a journalist reporting on the energy of a particular location or a movement, so many times I get reports that help me spot trends way ahead of the curve.  I use this during our QPED Life discussions on new designs, marketing campaigns, social media, and more.  Best of all, I get to bring ME to whatever I get involved with, and being in multiple roles allows me to have different ways to reach & connect with people.  

What is it about the company that’s unique?

QPED Life is a communal brand that's all about bringing people UP, and this translates from the designs down to the people involved with the company.  The owners of QPED Life have a strong belief in the physical aspect of human interaction, which is a fresh take in an era where we're all staring at our phones for a good portion of the day!  I think the overall positive messaging and encouragement of dreaming big and putting thoughts into action - is something I believe is not only healthy, but absolutely necessary.

"Dreaming big and putting thoughts into action - is something I believe is not only healthy, but absolutely necessary."

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There is also a level playing field at QPED Life, so doesn't matter if you're a guy or a girl, young/old, etc - your ideas and your work ethic are what are most valued and critiqued.  I get a lot of hands-on training and no matter what happens, I know the brand will have my back, and that's not something that everyone can always bet on.  

What’s a phrase or image that you really want to put on a shirt? 

Love over Hate.  We actually made a shirt with Love over Hate a few years ago - prior to launching QPED Life.  With the recent political atmosphere, this is a phrase that could really help unite people over what really matters to all of us.  Another phrase I'm drawn to is "Shoot for the Moon", and we actually just made a design with this phrase for Kat Lane fans!  I really love this piece, you can check it out here:  www.katlanemusic.com/merch

How do you see the company growing?

I've seen the company grow from a set of principles, to a song, then designs, and eventually to a real clothing line.  You're going to see a lot of growth from QPED Life over the next 2 years, from expansion of the line/designs to accessories, live events, and one huge surprise that will be revealed around June/July 2017 :)

But on a basic level, the messages of motivation and positivity will continue to be conveyed in many different platforms - anywhere the message could make a difference in someone's life.  The goal is to grow organically to where people understand and support the spirit of the brand and then the actual physical products - because this is the underlying purpose of why we do what we do at QPED Life. 

Do you think it’s important for women to have more than one hustle? 

Whether it's for women or for men, hustling just to have a hustle doesn't work, I really feel like you have to work for something that's important to you - and only then will hustle manifest into something more.  Our belief has always been quality over quantity - so when you put your heart into something, it will grow into things we never could have imagined.  Entertainment in general is important for me - I've always been creative, so having different "hustles" means having different avenues to utilize and share my creativity.

"You have to work for something that's important to you - and only then will hustle manifest into something more."

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"Shoot from the heart,” what does that mean to you?

"Shoot from the Heart" is a message of going for something with honesty for who you are, and giving it all you've got.  It's all about being true to yourself. 

If we were to find you anywhere at 7am, where would it be?

Radio!  I host on weekend mornings on Miami's #1 pop station - the New Hits 97.3

If we were to find you somewhere at midnight, where would that be?

Radio!  I have a mixshow on Friday nights too :D  I spend a lot of time outside of the office with QPED Life - experiencing life, and since the customer is now the real boss with retail as well as with music and so much more - I like to get out and meet people as much as I can!

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Links We Love: The Business of Wedding Hashtags & Tinder's New Dating Podcast

Raffael Dickreuter via secretofdd.com

The RHOBH are back! If you don't know what that stands for, good on you. Keep fighting the good fight against reality. And take a look into this week's news cycle. 

Black Mirror isn't just a show anymore. See how one model (Deddeh Howard, above) turned it into a photo project to talk about diversity. 

Guess which ladies are leading the Grammy noms! Queen A and Queen B. 

"My bill will ensure that students who try to transfer schools to avoid the consequences of their violent acts will, at a minimum, face the same consequences as students who transfer because they've cheated on an exam." Yep. 

If you want to be ITK on tech, here are 11 stats from last week that will make you sound smarter than a 5th grader. (Maybe. They are teaching them how to code now.) 

Tinder launched a podcast about dating in the digital age: DTR. And if you don't know what that stands for: hi mom! 

Glassdoor released their 2017 BEST places to work! If you're on the hunt for a new J-O-B, check it out. 

People do read! If you're looking for someone on you holiday list, here are 15 of the most giftable books. 

Fathers, be good to your daughters. Like these dads. 

If you're worried all of the clever wedding hashtags will be used up by the time someone pops the Q. Don't fret. Listen to the DTR podcast and then hire someone to do it for you.  

 

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C&C Classifieds Nº19: Elemis, Janet Gwen Designs, Kate Spade, and more!

@flesscollective

December is finally here, and we're one step closer to 2017. We have the holiday music on repeat, and we can already hear the New Year's Eve noisemakers and kazoos in the distance.

However, if you're looking if you're looking to lock in a new gig before you hear the 2017 countdown, we've got a new batch of classifieds for you this week.

From Elemis, to Janet Gwen Designs, to Vans, check out all of the new listings on our classifieds this week. 

If you have signed up for access to the C&C Classifieds before, click here.

Work Hard, Play Hard: Three Show-Stopping Holiday Office Party Outfits

Photo: Sidney Ellen Photography

With the holidays around the corner, the amount of holiday party invites flooding your inbox are about the same amount as your work emails. And when you’re trying to catch up with all the important emails and deadlines before the holiday break, is there even any time to go shopping or even think about what you’re going to wear at those holiday parties you RSVP’d for?

We get it. We’ve been there far too often, and every year, we get a little better at being masters of becoming our own stylists even with all the stress of holiday shopping and parties. And how selfish would it make us if we didn’t share some of our best styling tips to save you some time this holiday season? Think of it as one of our few holiday gifts to you.

Thanks to our friends and holiday-season go-to bebe, we’ve rounded up three dazzling outfits for you to try out this season - a fit for every type of party you’re headed to. Whether you want to keep it cool and casual at the new years party, or are ready to make a statement on the scene for the office holiday party, we’ve got you covered.

Mistletoe Mischief

Coated Heartbreaker Jeans - $119, Je T’aime Bomber - $198, Crystal & Velvet Tie Choker - $34

Are you headed to a chill holiday party with your friends after work? Perhaps a house party ready with warm spiked apple cider, and a DJ mixing the best holiday covers on the 1’s and 2’s? This casual denim ensemble with this sequined bomber jacket is perfect for those who don’t want to be overdressed, but are always dressed to impress.

When The Ball Drops

Faux Fur Jacket - $189, Embroidered Skinny Jeans - $159, Crystal Embellished Choker - $39

It’s NYE, and the party you’re headed to is not formal, but you can’t help it to show up with a show-stopping outfit that is sure to turn some heads. Nothing like pairing an embroidered pair of cropped denim with a white fuzzy number to show you’re ready to party, no matter how cold it gets. Also, don’t forget the red choker to accessorize - you want to nail all the details.

Holiday Office Festivities

Silk Charmeuse Surplice Top - $139, Gold Leather Moto Jacket - $298, High Waisted Trouser - $129

You RSVP’d for the formal holiday office party, but does this mean you have to wear a gown or a dress? If you’re in the mood to ditch a dress this year and red isn’t really your color, opt for a black and gold ensemble with hints of silk and leather. Add in a stacked chain necklace, and your outfit’s ready for the night!

What are some of your holiday go-to’s this season? Let us know below, and let us know your thoughts on our outfits!

Kat Von D on Making it in a Male-Dominated Industry

Most of us got acquainted with tattoo artist, Kat Von D from her appearances on both Miami Ink and LA Ink.  Shortly after her reality debut, the starlet got approached by the big beauty bosses at Sephora, in 2008, to start her own makeup line. The self-proclaimed beauty junkie instantly found herself in another successful business venture with Kat Von D Beauty. Not only did she recently relaunch her entire collection to be a vegan and cruelty-free brand, but Kat has also created cult favorites that have consistently found a place on Sephora’s Bestsellers list. In a recent conversation with James Vincent at The Makeup Show Chicago, Kat candidly talked on how involved she is in building her beauty brand and how she uses creativity to stay inspired in the ever growing industry. 

How did it start for you and what inspired the beauty line?

I think I got lucky in a lot of ways. When I was first on Miami Ink that’s when the people at Sephora were interested in seeing what my perspective was on makeup. I think they were surprised of how much of a beauty junkie I was at the time. I was already a Beauty Insider. I was a card carrying member and everything. They saw the opportunity for something different and unique. We started off with four lipsticks. The idea was to create the four perfect shades of red. Even back then I’m like ‘Oh this is so much. I can’t believe it. I’m the luckiest girl in the world’. I thought I was going to make one lipstick, fast forward to now, and we got 3 million lipsticks. Obviously it’s not that easy there is so much work in it. I think there are different ways to go about creating your own makeup line. For me, I don’t have absolutely any interest in pouring myself into anything if I’m not going to do it 110%. So there are a lot of people who just want to put their name on something, they don’t show up, just collect a paycheck, and hope it does well. As for me, [I’m] somewhat micromanaging but creatively involved in the entire process. 

I get asked a lot by people ‘How do I start my own makeup line?’ I think that I am the worst at giving advice but I do think that we’re in a day and age where it’s important to go back to handmade. That’s why I love Etsy. Anybody who has a small business that means you can do it out of your garage or your living room. And I think that’s something to be celebrated.  I connect with something that’s made with love versus mass produced or computer generated. Not to knock computers. Because computers are cool too, but there is this certain magic that happens when it has the human fingerprint on it. 

"I connect with something that’s made with love versus mass produced."

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I just always tell people: figure it out. If you really want, you can do it. There are a ton of great independent brands out there that don’t get enough love, that are vegan and cruelty free, that are producing things that are really pushing the envelope as far as artistry goes. When you get into the corporate world it’s a lot easier to play it safe, but what’s the fucking fun in that? So I celebrate all the indie brands as much as possible. 

Tell us about your artistry and what you think defines an artist.

I don’t feel worthy enough to answer that. I do like to make things with my hands and with my mind, and heart so I guess that can be called an artist or a creator. I think art is one of humanity’s most redeeming qualities in this world where we are so selfish. We shit on everything and never really give anything back, and I’m talking about Mother Nature.  It’s constantly taking and not producing. When you’re an artist its one of the most selfless acts you can do. You are giving whether you inspire somebody or make something beautiful. That’s so crucial and so important. And if we do want to be remembered by something let’s hope that it is art in a world like today where you have an orange person telling us bull shit things.

How do you come up with some of your product ideas?

We do treat every product like a snowflake in a sense that the creative process may come in a different way. Sometimes it’s the idea [first]. For example when I had the Butterfly Effect collection I figured out the art direction first. Then there are other times where it’s like the Alchemist Palette where I had this specific vision for the formula first and then you know the component and everything else came later. As far as shade names, that’s the fun part, that’s like the dessert. I get to name shades after my best friends [or] my exes. It’s almost like a little tiny love letter. Also I’m inspired by music so you guys will find that the majority of the shade names are like songs or lyrics or band names, just overall muses. 

As a female in a male-dominated industry what is the piece of advice to finding your own success?

We live in a male-dominated world with an exception of very few fields out there, actually makeup artistry being one of them. Makeup artistry is made up with the majority of female. As a tattooer I remember before the TV shows I didn’t have any girlfriends that were tattoo artist. I feel that the best representation of feminism is not making your gender an issue because that’s the problem in the beginning. I don’t want people getting tattooed by me because I am a girl. That would be the opposite of feminism. I want them to get tattooed by me because of my work. You want that to speak for itself. I don’t care if you are a girl or boy or chimpanzee. If you’re good, you’re on my team. 

"I don’t care if you are a girl or boy or chimpanzee. If you’re good, you’re on my team."

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What are some tips for artists for keeping themselves inspired?

I don’t know what it’s like to be bored. If I have any downtime I’m looking at trees. I’m going to sound like a hippie right now, but trying to understand and label what it is when light shines through a leaf. I think these things are really inspiring. Also people, if we practiced looking at each and find this special beautiful thing about them, oh my God, you are going to fall in love everyday like I do. I think inspiration is all around us. You can ask my team I drag them to so many museums. I’m like a total art nerd about it. I think that is something worship worthy.

There are times where I am completely depressed. I don’t need makeup to be happy but then I get a new palette and I look at it and its like ‘Oooh I like this color combination!’ It’s just that little tiny thing [that] gets us excited about tomorrow.

Is there one thing you love the most about your beauty line?

It’s not a product. I love all the products. I use everything that I make. I think it’s mainly the interaction. This makeup line has introduced me to such an amazing new world that I really wasn’t apart of before, especially after being made fun of as a kid at school for using black eyeliner as lipstick and shaving my head into a Mohawk. It’s nice to celebrate unconventional beauty together. I would say 40%, because 60% of the screenshots in my phone are my cat, but 40% of my screenshots are of you guys. I try my best to repost it or reproduce it and give credit. I think my favorite part of being involved in the makeup world is you guys. 

Adrienne Gadling reported this from The Makeup Show Chicago. She is the editor-in-chief of IAMSADIDDY.com 

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Want to Know How Long Your Resume Should Be?

photo credit: Kristen Meyer Salvage Design

How long should your resume be? The truth is, it depends. The way I always explain it to clients is if you really need the extra page and have useful career information (i.e. important metrics or well respected companies/jobs) to include, use it. However if you can easily condense all important information to one page that is reasonably spaced and reader friendly, go for that.

RULE OF THUMB

My general rule of thumb is that if you have 1/3 of a page or under on the second page, try to make it fit by searching for “fluff” words, extra spacing, etc. If you have more than 1/3 of a page and everything is important content about your career, it’s actually better to have it spread out between 2 pages to make the document more reader friendly. Note that the key phrase here is “reader friendly.” If you can fit everything onto one page, but your resume is dense and hard to read, that won’t benefit you.

If your resume is not skimmable, (Studies show that hiring managers and recruiters look at individual resumes for an average of 6 seconds each) it is basically worthless. That statement may seem harsh, but the reality of the job market suggests this is true.

"If your resume is not skimmable, it is basically worthless." #hardtruth

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Someone who presents an information-dense resume squeezed onto one page with half inch margins is almost sure to get very little attention solely based on the fact that no one wants to sift through it. 

THE GOAL OF A RESUME 

Many people think that the goal of a resume is to get you a job, but the real goal of a resume is to get you an interview. A resume alone can’t land you a job, but it can intrigue others to want to learn more about you. Think of your resume like a movie trailer. It highlights all of the best parts and persuades people to want to learn more (in an interview).

WHAT YOU NEED TO ASK YOURSELF

When answering the question of “how long should your resume be?” answer these questions:

Are there any jobs on your resume that are no longer worth including? (i.e. positions over 10 years ago, internships 3-5+ years ago, etc.)

Do you have useless verbiage/information on your resume such as references?

If your resume is 2 pages, are those 2 pages used wisely? Is there unnecessary spacing? Are you including plenty of facts and metrics about your achievements?

THE BOTTOM LINE

Make your resume clear, concise, and easy to read to ensure you get noticed. Making it easy for hiring managers or recruiters to immediately view your strengths and skill set is one of the main things that will get you an interview.

It’s hard to give standards regarding who should have a resume over a page and who shouldn’t, but generally, about 5 years in the workforce or less will stay within 1 page, and time over that may potentially overflow. With that said, it is important to remember that this is a generalization without taking industry into account. An engineer who has extensive training and certifications, but is only 4 years out of college may have a 2-page resume, where someone who’s been working for 20 years with only 2 jobs at the same company may be able to fit it into one. 

How long should your resume be? There is no one-size-fits-all for a resume, so as long as you stick to a reader friendly, to-the-point style of writing, you’ll be fine.

A native San Franciscan, Michele Lando is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individuals' application package and personal style. Aiming to help create a perfect personal branding package, Write Styles presents tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.

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Jingle All The Way with Birchbox's 12 Days of Prizes & Surprises

The holidays are here, and if you’re like us, we like to jingle all the way with the holiday spirit. Which is why we’re stoked to reveal day 6 of Birchbox' s 12 Days of Prizes and Surprises to gift you $500 worth of Laura Geller goodies!

If you're looking to treat yourself this holiday season, or are looking for the perfect gift for that special someone on your shopping list, make sure you enter today's giveaway! The fun doesn't end there, you can enter a new giveaway for a fun prize every day til 12/12, so make sure to check daily!

Click here to enter now, and good luck! 

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Gal on the Go: Ultimate Boss Guide to Charlotte, North Carolina

CREATE & INNOVATE in collaboration with Marriott Hotels

photo credit: Taylor Heery Photography 

What more do you need from a trip than amazing coffee and a perfect spot to lay your head? Something to fuel you as you traverse a new city? And a pillow to catch you at the end of a well spent day?

That's just what Coco & the Director (above) provides-- the coffee part, at least. It's a locally sourced coffee shop right inside the lobby of the Charlotte Marriott City Center, which recently celebrated its grand opening. And we got our fill of expertly roasted beans, the most tech-savvy lobby we've ever seen, and boss women in the Queen City when we headed to Charlotte last month. 

Like our past City Guide's, we met and profiled women who are at different points in their careers, each with a different focus and personal definition of success and balance. Women who have made the decision to strike out on their own-- and haven't looked back yet. Queens in the Queen City, if you will. 

LAUREN HOOKER, FOUNDER ELLE & COMPANY 

photo credit: Julia Fay Photography

Lauren Hooker started her design business Elle & Company in 2014, after reneging on a childhood pact she made with herself to "never, ever own a business."  

"My dad owned a gym in our small hometown when I was growing up, and after seeing all the stress and time he poured into that venture." She says she swore up and down that she wouldn't follow suit. Instead, she pursued her life-long passion for design, nabbing a BFA in Visual Communication Design from Virginia Tech. From there she landed a design position at a startup. But her boss, a 45-minute commute, and lack of creative freedom left her feeling lackluster about her position. "So," she says, "I did what any creative who hates their day job would do; I started freelancing." 

It was during this time she felt the freedom that comes with owning your own business. 

Since then, Elle & Company has grown from a design studio to a business resource for creative entrepreneurs. "I love what I do," says Lauren. She's also the current household #breadwinner while her husband Jake, is back in school. 

Lauren says, "I'm happy to be the 'breadwinner' of our family during this season. I know Jake would do the same for me if I ever chose to go back to school. 

More crazy than being the sole provider these past 3 years is that my business has not only been supporting us, but it's allowed us to pay for his schooling and save for our future. It's been a huge blessing."

Even though she's found herself in this role, Lauren says she never imagined she'd be an entrepreneur. "I'm a workhorse, but I've never considered myself a visionary.

Over these last three years I've come to learn that there's two kinds of entrepreneurs: those who were born entrepreneurs and are always looking for the next business idea, and those who were born creative and want to start a business to carry out their ideas on their own terms. Jake is a natural-born entrepreneur; I'm a natural-born creative. We make a good team."

"I'm a workhorse, but I've never considered myself a visionary."

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This past year she's been able to bring on two part-time assistants, increase her prices, and focus on some passive income streams. And Charlotte is the perfect place for Lauren as she continues to grow. "I'm a southern, East coast girl, through and through. Charlotte is a good mix of southern charm and city life. It's clean, it's growing, and it's close to both the mountains and the water. We love it here."

She's sharing her favorite spots in the city below. 

Best spot in Charlotte to hear live music: Neighborhood Theatre

Grab a morning cup of coffee: Not Just Coffee

Grab an afternoon cup of coffee: Amelie's Bakery (see above images) 

Tourist spot in Charlotte that’s a guilty pleasure:  Romare Bearden Park

Tourist spot that you’ve never visited:  U.S. National Whitewater Center

Your favorite spot in Charlotte to sit and be still: Freedom Park

Favorite date night spot:  Napa on Providence

MARSHA BARNES, FOUNDER THE FINANCE BAR

photo credit: Julia Fay Photography

Marsha Barnes started her career in the banking world, a place that provided her great opportunities, but the finance guru says that her true calling is much different than a banking setting. "There is a huge gap and percentage of people who are under-served on their financial journey," Marsha says.

"The world of personal finance is very similar to gaining levels of education, you begin with the basics and navigate your way up depending on your situation. I wanted to close that gap."

So she created The Finance Bar, a mobile finance station designed to service everyone stressed about their financial standing. The idea came about specifically to "not exclude anyone," says Marsha. "It allows me to travel to organizations, corporations and educational institutions and connect with people in a non-traditional financy type of way." 

She also recently launched her Coaching Suite, what she calls a much more intimate experience than the mobile unit. At the suit she's offering  1:1 support for singles, couples and entire families that need guidance.

Marsha wasn't always so money savvy. "As a young lady I wanted all the things that I knew my money could buy. When I received my first promotion in the corporate world the first thing I wanted was a BMW and I didn't earn BMW type of money back then. I wanted my title at work to match my lifestyle. Totally the wrong thinking process. Terrible actually."

"I wanted my title at work to match my lifestyle. Totally the wrong thinking process."

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But she is keen on sharing her know-how and how-to, especially during the spendiest season of all. "During your down time stop and think about the life that you truly desire for yourself. Is it to vacation more, create your own business, spend more time with family?" she asks. "Believe it or not, money affects a lot of what we do in life. Be mindful of your dreams-the holidays will come and go but will your dreams?"

Here's a list of Marsha's favorite and financially smart places in Charlotte. (Why spend $$ when you can hit up a spot for free?)

Favorite spot to have a cup of morning coffee: Not coffee, but definitely hot-chocolate at the bookstore with my husband.

Best location to watch the sunset: On my porch.

Grab a post work drink with a friend: Jade Asian Fusion

The one place in the city where you’ll splurge: Books-A-Million

Where you can get the most bang for your buck: The library. It's full of free learning. 

Favorite spot to sit and be still: The library and my porch.

Awesome neighborhoods you got to explore while taking the mobile hub on the road: Any neighborhood in my community. You never know what people are experiencing unless you are willing to meet them "where" they are. 

HOLLY HOLLINGSWORTH PHILLIPS, CO-OWNER THE ENGLISH ROOM

photo credit: Julia Fay Photography

"I often want to scoop it all up. I am a true shopaholic and I am thrilled to have the job that pays me for it," explains Holly Hollingsworth Phillips, co-owner of The English Room, an interior design business originally run by Holly and her mother, Nancy Hollingsworth.

"My mother does not accept the word 'NO,'" says Holly. "She is persistent to a fault sometimes. That has served me well to get things done and maneuver difficult situations." 

It's something Holly's been actively doing for over 20 years. Immersed in the world of design at a young age, Holly went on her first buying trip to Europe at 12. 

She also learned to be "kind to everyone you meet. The subs and people who do lots of the actual install make this business happen," explains Holly. "Those relationships should be cherished and well-respected." 

They are relationships that she's built over the last 20 years, but don't think that makes her unadaptable. "Access online has broadened knowledge and sources for everyone-- clients and designers alike," she shares. "I have a love/hate relationship with Pinterest because the client can peruse ideas for days and get so confused. Yet, it has become an integral tool for me with secret boards for each project. It is a way for clients and I to share ideas easily." 

Iris Apfel is another huge influence on the designer. A woman who Holly says is a true design icon. She has been, "an interior designer, a textile designer, a business owner, a shopaholic and she has now become a fashion icon. I respect her desire to not be swayed by trends bit to dress for herself," Holly says. "I have always abided by her 'more is more and less is a bore' philosophy."

"I have always abided by her 'more is more and less is a bore' philosophy." 

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Things have also changed a bit since she was 12 browsing antiques in faraway places, but the travel component of her work has not. To get into travel mode Holly says, "I research like nobodies business! I cull my design friends for their knowledge of the location. I research travel guides for each location ad nauseam to find all the best spots prior to a trip. I make a Pinterest board. I map everything on Google maps and make a very set itinerary." And yet she's remains open spontaneity. "Plan and over plan so you can go with the flow and relax knowing you didn't miss a thing."

Don't miss anything on Holly's list of her favorite spots in Charlotte below. 

Best spot in Charlotte to be inspired: The Mint Museum 

Grab a morning cup of coffee: At home, my husbands coffee is the best. Love Amelie’s in Noda or Little Spoon for a weekend treat.

Grab an afternoon cup of coffee: Starbucks because it is 100 yards from my office. I wish Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf was in Charlotte. 

Tourist spot that’s a guilty pleasure: Pinky’s Westside Grill - Get the Pimpin’ Fries smothered in pimento cheese…worth the heart attack. 

Tourist spot that you’ve never visited: Nascar Hall of Fame 

Best under the radar shopping spot: Hidell Brooks Gallery for incredible art, Sleepy Poet for an occasional random design score.

Find amazing vintage: Slate Interiors 

Your favorite spot in Charlotte to sit and be still: Foxcroft Wine Company with great bottle of Cali Chard and cheese plate. 

A restaurant that has amazing food: Kindred in Davidson is by far the best restaurant in the area! 

A restaurant that has amazing interior decor: Kindred or Reid’s for chic french bistro style…or Halcyon at The Mint Museum. (This is not Charlotte’s forte…I would love to design one chic interior.)

Be sure to check back on our final stop of the year with Marriott Hotels. Up next: we are heading to Seattle, WA. 

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5 New Skills You Can Learn On Your Lunch Break

FEELING THE SLUMP OF THE WORK WEEK AND THE CALL OF THE WEEKEND? YEAH, US TOO. AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHY WE NEED TO SWITCH GEARS, MENTALLY SPEAKING. 

Earlier this week, we published an article about how easy it is to fall into a "living for the weekend" mentality, even when you think you're doing OK. We're all guilty of spending too much time scrolling our Instagram feeds and not enough learning new skills. So we gave ourselves a challenge, and now we're giving it to you:

We dare you to learn one new skill before Monday. 

Lately, the Career Contessa team has been obsessed with Skillshare, an online learning community with 2,500+ classes on every topic imaginable. The best part for us is that it lets you learn at your own pace. We work flex hours here so our schedules can feel erratic at times. Taking courses online makes sense. You can enroll at any hour, on any day, and from anywhere. I even took a class on making the perfect cup of coffee (with Blue Bottle's Director of Training) one Sunday morning when I had nothing to do. Brunch learning = bliss. 

The other major appeal of Skillshare is its cool factor. This isn't like taking an online Accounting 101 course taught by some guy sporting a spectacular combover. The instructors are real people (and often they're influencers you already know and admire) with actual experience in the topics they're teaching. If we had to describe it, Skillshare is sort of like taking a buzzy Soulcycle class mixed with a pithy TED talk. 

Oh, and one last thing: you can sign up for three months of full access to their library for $0.99.

Here are some of our favorites so far:

1. THE MODERN MARKETING WORKSHOP WITH SETH GODIN

Marketing...AKA the beast in your office closet. I'm thankful every day that our Marketing Manager exists so that I get to kick back and write and edit listicles like this. Still, I knew I could benefit from knowing a little more about what she does (last week she had to teach me the term "flat lay." Mind blown). Godin's workshop is definitely one of the heavier classes Skillshare offers—there's even supplemental reading material and interviews—but it's worth it. Perfect if you're hunting for a new job or considering a career shift. We all know what hot commodities marketing skills are.  

2. HOW TO PRESENT: SHARE IDEAS THAT INSPIRE ACTION WITH SIMON SINEK 

I hate presenting anything ever. It's hard enough showing people your work, let alone explaining to them why it's valuable—especially if there's a podium involved. Cue Simon Sinek, who also happens to be one of the heroes of the marketing world (you've probably seen his renowned TED talk). In his get-straight-to-it, 30-minute Skillshare class, Sinek teaches you ways to apply his philosophies to presenting your work publicly. Not one to miss, especially if you've got a big meeting coming up. 

3. GET DISCOVERED WITH A KNOCKOUT PORTFOLIO WITH SARAH RAPP

Speaking of the importance of marketing: let's talk about marking yourself. If anyone knows how to cultivate an online presence, it's Sarah Rapp, Head of Community Management at Behance. We've said this before and we'll say it again: you need a portfolio. Rapp's got a few suggestions to get you started. 

4. MAKING THE MOST OF INSTAGRAM: BUILD YOUR BRAND WITH GARRETH PON

Purely for our own amusement, Meghan and I have been creating these 30-day challenges for ourselves. Last month, we spent the month bringing our lunch from home. This month, we've been trying to grow our Instagram followers to see if all those tips and tricks you read actually work. So when I spotted Pon's class, I enrolled immediately. If you're a freelancer, trying to build a side hustle, or just trying to find a new job, your Instagram is a great platform for showing  your style and building a loyal following, i.e. people who just might land you your next gig. Worth learning some pointers. 

5. LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY: CAPTURING FOOD, FLAVORS, CONVERSATION WITH MARTE MARIE FORSBERG

I've been a loyal follower of Forsberg's Instagram for years (her lighting) —but that doesn't mean I can boast any real photography skills myself. If there's one thing I'd like to get better at personally this year, it's photography. At some point, maybe I'll enroll in a pricey in-person class to get down and dirty with 35mm, but in the meantime, this was a great place to start. Plus, it should help with that whole Instagram following thing (see #3). 

WHAT WE'RE EXCITED TO TAKE NEXT

We're just too excited to leave it at five, I guess. Here's what I've got saved for later (yes, Skillshare lets you do that): 

Intro to Surface Pattern Design: Learn Adobe Illustrator and Create Patterns: Because, you know, I like patterns? 

Knife Skills: A Mini Class to Chop Like a Chef: Because I almost cut my thumb off last week. 

Drawing on Everything: Discovering Your Creative Voice: Because I'm stalker-level obsessed with Shantell Martin and her illustrations. 

Storytelling for Leaders: How to Craft Stories That Matter: Because. Duh. 

* * *

What's the next class you plan on taking? 

An original version of this article appeared on Career Contessa.

Links We Love: Mitigating Fake News, Working During Your Commute & Presents for Everyone!

@greymalin

We're in holiday limbo. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas where it's super hard to stay focused at work. 

We're guilty of it. Which is why we're sharing with you all the links we've read through in between emails all week. ;) 

Why did Rihanna and Prince Harry get HIV tests together? Find out. 

If you want to buy your BFF the cheapest gift from the most expensive brands. Like soap, from Chanel. 

Interviews with 100 American workers on what their jobs are really like. 

Fake news was pretty popular this election cycle. Snap (formerly Snapchat) managed to keep it out. But how?

Do you have a NIGHTMARE commute? If you're not the driver, here's how to get work done during those to and fro moments. 

If you think that the Sunday after Thanksgiving is rightfully called "F**k, I Have To Go Back To Work Tomorrow Sunday", then you're most likely to retweet these tweets.

Are you assertive at work? You might be getting paid more than your "nice" coworkers.

Spotify knows what you're listening to, and it has no chill when it comes to outing you for listening to Holiday music in July.

Wondering how Snapchat revolutionized social networks? Here's how. 

Trevor Noah v.s Tomi Lahren. That is all. 

C&C Classifieds Nº18: Pressed Juicery, Hypebeast, WeWork, and more!

@lagracieuse

As we wrap up November, and look towards the end of 2016, some of us are starting to write in out our New Year's resolutions. If finding the next step in your career has made it onto your list, we're here to help.

Don't wait 'til January 1st to start applying to new jobs - step into 2017 with good vibes and a new job under your belt. Sign up below to see this week's selects from Google, Hypebeast, TBWA\Chiat\Day, We Work, Pressed Juicery, and more! 

If you have signed up for access to the C&C Classifieds before, click here.

Do You Really Need a Four Year Degree?

While only 46% of people ages 25-29 had completed an associates degree or higher as of 2015, the pay gap between college graduates and everyone else reached a record high in 2013, based on an analysis of Labor Department statistics by the Economic Policy Institute in Washington. Americans with four-year college degrees made 98 percent more an hour on average in 2013 than people without a degree. That’s up from 89 percent five years earlier, 85 percent a decade earlier and 64 percent in the early 1980s.

It seems like everywhere you look, someone has a side hustle or is dabbling in entrepreneurship, which brings up the question of “Do you really need a four year degree?” There is no perfect answer for everyone, however it is important to look at the benefits of obtaining a four year degree. When you’re debating if a four year degree is right for you, ask yourself three main questions:

1. What do you want to do/What is your ideal job?
2. Do you want to create something for yourself or would you rather work for someone else/a larger company?
3. In your desired field of work, what is the required degree? Does there seem to be a minimum level of education which you must have in order to be successful in that field?

What Do You Want to Do?

This question is harder than it looks, however it is the basis of determining the answer to “Do you really need a four year degree?” Determining what you want to do will help you figure out what kind of education may be required and what path you should take.

For instance, if you want to go into a more creative field such as art or music, perhaps you can forgo the four year degree and focus on a program which truly enhances your abilities through a nontraditional route. On the other hand, if you want to go into a sector of science or engineering, you most definitely need a four year degree to obtain a job and get the required licensure. 

Do You Want to Create Something for Yourself or Work for a Larger Company?

The real question here is, are you going to be paid by a larger company, or are you going to work for yourself/run your own business? Figuring out if you want to create your own company/business or work for an established organization can help determine the amount of schooling you need. While a four year degree would be extremely beneficial in both instances, a four year degree will enable you to obtain higher wages if you’re working for another company, whereas you may be able to get away without a four year degree if you are working for yourself.

If you are trying to go into the corporate world or at least start there, a four year degree will give you the basis and foundation to obtain the kind of job(s) and pay that you want.

In Your Desired Field of Work, What Is the Required Degree?

Once you’ve determined what path you want to take and/or what job you want to obtain, go online and do some research. Is there a common degree that is required? Do most of the jobs you’re aiming for either now or in the future require a certain certification? If so, what are the steps to getting certified? Do you need a minimum amount of education? Figure out what you need to do education-wise to qualify for the job you want.

Do You Really Need a Four Year Degree?

While there are people who can get away without having a four year degree, it will always benefit you, and will almost always be necessary to obtain a high level job in this day and age. 

The bottom line is that if you are applying for a job, and it comes down to you and one other candidate who are completely equal, employers will have to split hairs to decide who they want to hire. In this instance, they will often choose the candidate who has a better education. Similarly, full-time workers ages 25 and over without a high school diploma had median weekly earnings of $504, compared with $700 for high school graduates, (no college) and $1,266 for those holding at least a bachelor’s degree. Not only will you learn a lot about yourself and your industry through a college degree, you will be able to make more than your peers who are not college educated.

If you have the opportunity, getting a four year degree will benefit you in many ways, both socially and in the workforce. Think that a traditional college education isn’t for you? Explore other options such as online or community college classes to educate yourself based on what you want and need.

Do you really need a four year degree? While it isn’t 100% necessary, it will greatly benefit you and make life easier in the long run.

A native San Franciscan, Michele Lando is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individuals' application package and personal style. Aiming to help create a perfect personal branding package, Write Styles presents tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.

4 Ways To Work Your Professional Network

Source: The Spicy Stiletto

With an increasing number of digital tools meant to create ‘connections’ at our fingertips today, it is becoming more confusing to navigate the idea of building a professional network. 

Is your network...the number of connections you have on LinkedIn? 

The number of professional mentorship groups you belong to? 

Or is it, simply, the people you have worked with in your current and past jobs? 

Consider Dunbar’s number, which states that the average human being can comfortably maintain stable relationships with 150 people, compared to the average number of LinkedIn connections a person has: 930! As the term ‘network’ gets muddled in the digital realm, I’ve found that focusing on a few key tactics will help you to build a fruitful, established, professional network IRL. 

Set your intention

No, I don’t mean in your yoga class. 

Before beginning to think about how to grow your professional network, think about what you want your professional network to be for you. Do you want to learn more about an industry you’re not currently involved in? Learn how to advance your career in your current role? Are you looking to learn how to balance work and life? Answering these questions will help you determine what type of people you need more of in your professional life. 

Set up a coffee with the future you

It's easy to believe that the more meetings you have, the more productive you’re being. I’ve found that a more focused approach to building a professional network is far more effective than casting a wide net. 

When you’re trying to grow your network, build a list of titles you think align with your career growth path. Then, reach out to those around you who have those titles, set up a coffee, and start learn what they do, and how they got to where they are today. 

Setting an intention will help you determine what type of people you need more of in your professional life. 

Tweet this.

Focus on quality, not quantity

There is definitely such a thing as having too many professional connections. 

Your ability to dedicate energy and focus to your relationships decreases with the volume of people you’re trying to connect with. Instead of reaching out to every person in a senior leadership role at your company, focus on building deeper relationships with one or two people you naturally connect with, and whose role you admire. Try to have 10 coffees with 2 people, instead of 2 coffees with 10 people. And don’t force a relationship with someone you don’t naturally connect with, no matter what their title is.

Make it a two-way street

Building your network isn’t just about getting advice and support - it’s also about giving those things. Often times, when we connect with someone we admire, we forget that the other person wants to be fulfilled by the relationship as well. 

I have a ‘friend-tor’ whose career I admire greatly, and who gives me tons of advice. In return, I offer him a fresh perspective on his position as a leader, and give him feedback that people he works with on a daily basis may not be giving him. As in any type of relationship, consider what you’re bringing to the table. 

Your network is a living breathing thing

Keep in mind that your professional network may grow, shrink or change as you continue on your career path. Some connections you may form could turn into friendships, while others may become obsolete the further you move along in your path. Maintaining connections is important, but also remember that the purpose of a professional network is to help your career flourish - not to be the most popular young professional in your city.

This was originally published on Shine, a daily messaging experience to help you live your best life.

7 Small Businesses to Shop From Home

photo credit: L’Appel Eyewear

Today is Small Business Saturday, which means tons of independent shops and small retailers are marking down products. 

But if you're not mentally prepared to peel yourself from the couch quite yet or maybe you just took down your last plate of leftovers and are in the mood for slippers over shoes (no judgement) there are plenty of small businesses you can peruse from the comforts of home (or grandma's couch, if applicable). Choosing local and comfortable? Sounds like a win/win. 

Check out the 7 businesses we're giving a browse today. 

LOOKING FOR A NYE OUTFIT? 

Need Supply

You need it? They have it. And take an extra 20% off sale items code BLACKFRIDAY through Sunday at 11:59pm

TenOverSix

There is plenty of eye-candy clothing up for grabs. From plaid pants to chic black overalls, take 20% and more off on brands including Calder Blake, Rodebjer, Robert Clergerie, Horses Atelier and more.

The Webster

Get deep discounts on brands including Valentino, Maison Margiela, Givenchy, Haider Ackerman, Saint Laurent, Chloe and many more luxury brands. 

IF YOU WANT THE PERFECT JEAN 

Taking vintage Levi's and reshaping them, Redone has the a fit for everyone. Shop the Redone sale on denim-- styles range from cropped to flared and everything in between. 

IF YOU'RE TRYING TO SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME

From quirky accessories to cool coffee table books, you can score up to 25% off Poketo site wide. Or you can stock up on stocking stuffers for the whole fam.

A GIFT FOR THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE

If dear old dad, your brother, or your hubby live in white or heather gray tees, button downs, and keeps it classic head over to Apolis Global or Buck Mason. Both stores are offering deals for the ruggedly handsome gentleman in your life. 

Found anything great today? Share the goods in the comments below!

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Links We Love: Tackling the Mental Health Convo & 11 Stars Using Their Voices for Good

photo credit: Studio DIY 

This week: Obama pardoned his last turkey and you ate your fill of yours. Oh and two ladies you should totally know about won Medals of Freedom, the highest honor awarded to civilians. Play catch-up on the week's news below! 

From ashes to hope: one Palestinian girl's amazing invention. 

These women in Hollywood are using their platform for good. 11 stars who became political activists. 

Hannah Hart's book Buffering addresses the mental health convo. And the stigmas she wants to change.  

What have HRC supporters learned from her loss? A portrait series is asking: Where Do We Go From Here? 

What came first the self or the seflie? And is social media disconnecting us from the BIG picture? 

The White House honored these two women in tech with Medals of Freedom. They were instrumental in the early days of computers. 

Making both our bodies and our hearts warm this holiday season-- your feel good news of the week. 

Chicago indie band OK GO is known for pushing the envelope with their music videos. What did they do this time? And what does Morton salt have to do with it?

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Outfits You'll Want to Work Hard to Buy

Oh it's the most wonderful weekend of all. Black Friday has come to be as important to the holidays as stockings on your chimney. And we couldn't be more thankful. Especially with the caliber of clothing offered luxe Italian retailer Luisa Via Roma. 

From the above Aciel White Cotton Poplin Shirt to the Aquazzura Napa Leather Flats, there is plenty to pine after. (BTW: Hammock also for sale.) 

And if you’re lusting after a certain luxury piece, but can’t yet afford it, these items will convince you to put your nose to the grindstone and work until you own it. 

A long pale pink dress is useful year round. During the winter months pair it with boots and a turtleneck to stay warm. A gray Emporio Armani turtle will do the trick. In the spring wear the Attico Satin Slip Dress solo and take advantage of the thigh-high slits. The Skogsberg&Smart vase vase pulls double duty as well. Use it as a candle holder or fill it with white lilies to match the winter landscape. 

Looking to make a statement at your friend's holiday fete? Shourouk Ramses Black earringsare white and gold, the colors of the season. They're also dazzling danglers. Don't want to show up empty handed? The House of Hackney Pineapple candleholder is better than a bottle of wine (and lasts longer too). For a button-down that works with both a red leather skirt for nights on the town and back in the office on Monday, VETEMENTS padded shoulders cotton poplin shirt is a winner. 

A cropped cashmere turtleneck? It's just the right amount of naughty and nice. And you should put something like it in on your xmas list. It's great for wearing around the office with a pair of high waist pants. Even better for flaunting a tiny smidgen of your mid-drift, even when the snow drift is piling high. If you like rocking high-necked styles, also check out this dot mesh and lace crepe top from British label Self Portrait.  And if you want to get a little crazy with your bottoms, these Vionnet Musical Printed pants are the way to go. 

A Bitossi Ceramiche Hen Ceramic figure might not work as a purse, but it's certainly of the season and looks cute tucked up under your arm (or in your hallway entry). And with Marni Cropped Light Twisted Flannel Pants and Aquazzura Christy Lace Up Pumps, people are going to be more focussed on the bottom half of your outfit anyway. 

For more holiday outfit inspo visit Luisa Via Roma. Black Friday sales are happening! Use the CODE: BFKEEP20 for an extra 20% off sale from Nov 23-24 & from Nov 25-28 the discount is applied automatically at checkout.

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C&C Classifieds Nº17: Apple, Spotify, Patagonia, and more!

@eslee

When you're a natural born hustler, not even the holidays can stop the hustle. Sure, Thanksgiving is tomorrow, but when you have a career drive that can't be stopped, nothing can get in your way.

If you're looking for your next career venture this Thanksgiving, we've got you covered. To see all of this week's new classifieds, enter your name and email below for full access!

Happy Thanksgiving!

If you have signed up for access to the C&C Classifieds before, click here.

Here's How to Actually Support Women at Work

Putting his money where his mouth is, Brett Gelman, best known for his role as Brett Mobley on Adult Swim series Eagleheart, severed ties with the network over misogynist policies. Earlier this year Adult Swim announced its full roster of new shows, returning series, and specials. Of the 47 announced projects, exactly zero were created (or even co-created) by women. 

Taking to Twitter, Gelman told his audience, “If you are a straight white man you must actually help others and take action and not just say that you support them. Tweeting isn’t enough.” 

He also shared the following with Paste Magazine. 

"Every white liberal straight man needs to take action and work at unifying all peoples of our sides, and stop making women, and people of color and the LGBT community fight it out themselves and just pat them on the back. We have to take active roles in supporting them, defending them and hiring them."

Gelman is one outlier sparking a conversation among both men and women who are asking: 'how do I *actually* support women at work? You know besides simply saying you do. There's impotence in only talking about something, but that doesn't mean you have to quit. You don't need to refuse to work, but you need to put in the work. Equality doesn't happen in a vacuum. 

"You need to put in the work. Equality doesn't happen in a vacuum."

Tweet this. 

Joanna M Pawlowska, Senior Manager at NPR's Generation Listen, shares three ways that men can start really supporting women at work. 

MIND YOUR IMPLICIT BIAS 

"It’s there, shaping your attitudes and reactions to women, even when you’re not conscious of it," says Pawlowska. "If you find yourself responding negatively to a woman, notice and explore your reaction. Would you feel the same way if she was a he? Take this implicit bias test."

We all have implicit biases. What matters is paying attention and taking stock of where they live. 

MAKE ROOM 

"Women speak less in meetings," says Pawlowska. "So, invite women to speak first. Notice if they are being interrupted, especially by male colleagues."

In January 2015, Sheryl Sanberg and Wharton business school professor Adam Grant wrote a piece for the New York Times where they discussed "speaking while female."  The colleagues cited a study from Yale professor Victoria L. Brescoll. Not only did the study find that women speak less than men in meetings, it also found that male executives who spoke more often than their peers were rewarded with 10 percent higher ratings of competence. When female executives spoke more than their peers, both men and women punished them with 14 percent lower ratings.

This study follows a long narrative proving that not only do women speak less in meetings, they are judged more hardly than their peers. A study by Brigham Young University and Princeton researchers in 2012 showed that women spoke only 25 percent of the time in professional meetings. That means men took up 75 percent of an average meeting. The study also found that when women were left out of the conversation, they found it harder to sway discussions during majority votes on issues. 

If you don't speak up, you won't get heard. Which is where this next part comes in handy... 

HAVE HER BACK

"If your female colleague shares a great idea at a meeting, vocalize your support and help her build wider buy in," says Pawlowska. 

This ties back to minding your own bias. Take stock of what ideas you're supporting in meetings. Seriously, keep a tally. If you notice that you're only supporting the ideas of other male colleagues, take an active role in your own biases and make a point to support the women. Listen to the idea and encourage its float to the top of the conversation. 

You don't need to support something simply because it's coming from a female co-worker, but you do need to pay attention to what you're supporting and why. 

These are a few steps we all can take. Have other ideas? Share in comments below! 

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Still Wondering How to Partner With Major Brands?

photo credit: The TomKat Studio 

Are you wondering how to partner with today’s major brands? Want to know how to catch their eye?

Well, if you were at Create & Cultivate ATL you might remember the delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes from lunch served up by Zoës Kitchen. Beyond filling our stomachs, they’re also filling our brains with useful info. We got the chance to pick the brains of the social media and marketing team behind the restaurant lifestyle brand.

They are sharing how they want to work with influencers and how influencers should approach them.

WHAT THEY’RE LOOKING FOR IN AN INFLUENCER

1. If you’re already a Zoës enthusiast, that’s great! They love seeing your passion for their brand. If you eat at the restaurant, let them know. If there is a dish you love, share it! The more often they see you interact with them online, the more confident they become in your authentic interest in the brand.

2. They’ll have ideas of their own, but are always interested in your take on how to deliver their message to your audience. You likely have a following that differs from theirs and you know how to best engage them. Share how you would engage your specific audience with a tailored pitch.

3. Getting your grid right is the first step to growing your audience. Elevated photography and feed aesthetic are key elements in selecting an influencer to represent your brand. Bonus points if you can offer photography that is so good that they would repurpose it in the future (crediting you, of course).

4. Don’t limit yourself to a certain category for collaboration. Brands like Zoës appreciate different types of influencers to break through the clutter. For example, if you’re a fashion blogger, sharing a food-related post will stand out from the rest of your feed and will captivate followers in a new way. Using food bloggers (or same-category influencers) has benefits of its own, but brands are always seeking refreshing and unexpected ways to be seen and share content.

"Don’t limit yourself to a certain category for collaboration."

Tweet this. 

photo credit: The TomKat Studio

NEXT STEP: HOW TO GET THEIR ATTENTION

1. If you’re using a product or visiting a restaurant like Zoës, tag them in a photo or use their brand hashtag. That’s the first step to getting on a brand’s radar. The person monitoring their social media will be paying close attention to who is engaging with the brand.

2. If that doesn’t get a brand’s attention, the onus is on you to reach out via web or social. You can shoot them a DM or send a detailed, but succinct message of why and how you want to work with them.

3. Include examples of relevant brand partnerships. Numbers and analytics are a great way to show the brand the kind of impact you can make.  

Remember, it’s all about the feeling. People don’t only come to Zoës Kitchen because the food tastes great. More often, the team says they hear that customers enjoy ZK because of how it makes them feel. They identify with the Mediterranean way of life – leading a balanced, active lifestyle, connecting with others, and fueling their body with food they can feel great about from the inside out. These are all points that you can work into your outreach to the brand.

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Why It's Great That Not Everyone Will Love Your Work

The more connected that our world becomes, the more influencers there are, the more social media posts and best practice philosophies that there are, and the more comparison there is. We're bombarded with other people’s messages and a nagging feeling that we're not enough; that we could be doing so much more.

There’s better technology, cameras, styling props, improved platforms, more readers to capture, more email addresses, more Instagram followers to acquire and so on....Everyone else (apparently) is doing so much better and so much more than we are. They have more followers, bigger numbers, better websites and collaborations.

This perception and overwhelm often translates to inadequacy. We feel bad about what it is we’re doing. 

It isn’t enough. Except, it is. 

Focusing on 'what everyone else is doing' is less than helpful. You need to protect yourself and find the balance between being in a bubble and being inspired by those killing it around you.

BUBBLE VS. INSPIRATION 

Put the comparison game aside.  Focus for a sec on the cold-hard truth that your numbers aren't as big and your profile isn't as out there as someone else's? First of all, this will always be the case (unless you're Kim K).

Second, the reality is that not everyone will love you and your work. This is the truth for all of us and no matter how awesome you are or your work is, there's someone who it won't speak to. Whether from a brand perspective or your prospective audience.

Do you know why?

Because your message isn’t what they’re seeking and that is perfectly OK. In fact dare I say it's fabulous?! It means that as you're doing your thing, following your heart and speaking your true voice. Genuine and authentic followers, subscribers and even customers will follow.

Again, no matter how rockin’ your work and profile is, not everyone is buying what you’re selling and this is absolutely OK. An online course I studied this year highlighted a very important point when it came to sales pages. It discussed the concept of clearly stating within your copy who your product or service is NOT for, hence advising prospective customers that maybe they aren't prospective customers after all. That this concept was as crucial as telling them how fabulous whatever your selling was too.

There’s a two-fold strategy to this exercise; first off you've more than likely circumnavigated away from the future painful and unsatisfied customers of your business and second, you’ve represented up-front and unabashedly who you are what you’re all about to those who want to hear it. 

Following my studies I decided to take these lessons a step further and extend it to all of my work and communication; to really own my space and what I’m doing. I wasn't in competition with anyone else and it wasn't for purposes of profit or profile.  I chose to fine tune my voice, allow it to be heard even more clearly and not hold back with anything; whether that be a product, recipe or social media post; in case I put someone off.

"I chose to fine tune my voice, allow it to be heard even more clearly and not hold back with anything."

Tweet this. 

GUESS WHAT?

I have put people off. Silently and without issue. I’ve also gained more subscribers, followers, profile and engagement; with these there come further excitement and possibility. You could argue it’s the whole quantity over quality debate. Although there was an initial drop off, and perhaps overall my numbers will be smaller from "owning my space" and therefore being more of a niche, but those who’ve elected to hear from me on various platforms actually want to hear from me.

I treat that as sacred and I know they feel that from me too. I’m able to deliver better quality to them because I’m not spreading myself thin trying to please and appeal to the entire world’s population. If you need further proof of this, check out how many blogs there are devoted to the humble succulent (and yes I love them too!)

We're all different and our tastes reflect as much. Learning to accept this point is the best thing that you can add to your blog. Do your thing and do it with all that you have. People pick up on and respond to that and besides it feels awesome!

So the next time that someone unfollows you or unsubscribes from your list fear not (within reason), wish them well on their quest and welcome with open arms those who have remained instead.

Nadia is a 29 year-old Sydney-sider, devoted to providing inspiration and tools to empower women in living a life of wellness; to be the best that they can! As an author, speaker and recipe developer she is a big dreamer and living proof that we can each do and be what we choose. Departing the corporate world in 2013 to follow her heart, Nadia has found it and attempts to seize the day, everyday. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram and on her website.

An original version of this article appeared on Blog Society. 

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