We were lucky to catch up with Bailey Ness recently and have shared our conversation below.
Bailey, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Growing up, I had a lot of energy to burn both physically and creatively. During high school, I ran track and cross country and filled weekends with making clothing for friends. Fashion and running were definitely my first loves- they built a base for the framework of where I am now. I studied Fashion Marketing at the University of Minnesota and went on to complete a Master’s degree in Design and Merchandising at Colorado State University. I ran for both the Gophers and Rams track teams.
After interning for a handful of companies in the fashion industry as well as assisting some small companies with their social media, I found myself at the end of graduate school and the beginning of a global pandemic. Job opportunities fell apart, disappeared, or just weren’t the right fit for me. That “quarter life crisis” people joke about felt very real.
I realized that I would find purpose not in a role given to me, but in a role created by me. I took a chance, moved to Denver, and created Nesscessity, my social media marketing agency. I ran with the dream that I could combine my expertise in marketing with my team-oriented mindset to create a company that allowed a brand’s voice, personality, and core values to be their means to success. Nesscessity has grown into a team of 5 with over 20 clients, and I am so fulfilled by what I do.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Nesscessity is my social marketing agency that specializes in reviving brands with an out-of-the-box approach… we like to say we help brands find their color. Nesscessity does it all- Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, blog writing, and email marketing- but we do it at the next level. There is a common misconception that social media is simple- post and see the results, but that’s just not the case. We bring in analytics and strategies that foster engagement so a brand can truly grow their following. The best part about working with Nesscessity- it’s personal. We aren’t robots, we aren’t a massive social media mill. We want to connect with our clients so they can connect with their consumers.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
It probably won’t come as a shock that starting a business came with a lot of logistical road bumps and moments of stress in the months it took to get off the ground. Once I felt like I could really take a deep breath and had some footing, I think the hardest skill to develop was knowing when to say ‘no.’ It’s easy to fall into the “more is more” mindset of the business world, and in the excitement of getting Nesscessity started, I struggled to turn interested clients away. Quality occasionally came close to slipping, and I simply didn’t have enough hands to get the work done. I had to learn to recognize clients that would be a mutually good fit. My team and I do our best work when we truly believe in the client’s mission, values, and product. When we connect with those aspects of their brand, their brand has a much greater chance of connecting with their target audience through the content we create- and it shows in the work we do. I’d say self-discipline and authenticity come to mind as two other skills/qualities that have been most impactful to this journey. Without dialed in self-discipline, there’s no way Nesscessity could have gotten off the ground. As it grows, I am constantly reminding myself that it’s MY name that’s being represented, and even in the midst of chaotic schedules and hectic times I make a huge effort to remain authentic in the work that I do so my passion is reflected in Nesscessity’s work.
I’d say the best way to develop those skills is to be intentional in personal development. I like blocking off an hour per week dedicated to self reflection, brainstorming, or reaching out to a mentor. 60 minutes each week add up and pay off!
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My mom is my greatest role model, mentor, and friend. She prepared me to overcome challenges and shaped who I am today from the beginning of time. The woman embodies empathy, work ethic, and leadership. If I can come close to emulating the way she pulls each of those things into her personal and professional life seamlessly, I can consider myself successful. Some close seconds: friends with personalities you just can’t make up, a boyfriend who inspires me with his own work and self drive, and a dog who may be the cutest in Denver.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nesscessitycreative.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nesscessity/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nesscessity/
