We were lucky to catch up with Melissa Ottstadt recently and have shared our conversation below.
Melissa, so great to have you on the platform and excited to have you share your wisdom with our community today. Communication skills often play a powerful role in our ability to be effective and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your communication skills.
I have a near-constant fear of being misunderstood, coupled with missing out on an opportunity. I’m not sure if it stems from corporate life, childhood, relationships or something else – but it guides my communication style and has forced me to really think before I speak. In a business environment, there is a part of me that feels like I only have a small window to say what I mean, or to get my point across, so I better do it quickly, plainly and using as few words as possible. That may come across as if I don’t feel that I’m worthy enough to have a seat at the table, but I’ve actually found that communication style to be extremely helpful. I’m taking into consideration that everyone is busy, most likely tired, and wants to know what I have to offer that can benefit them. Simply showing that I’m conscious of someone else’s time and have a well thought out offer / feedback / pitch / etc has opened many doors for me.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
The Lys Collective is a product of my desire to create a cozy home and share my own small way of coping. What started as a pandemic candle making hobby, turned quickly into an obsession. Every decision from sourcing wax to curating product packaging is made with a unique level of care, and customers can feel good about supporting a business that puts the environment first. Solely owned and operated by myself, it’s my goal to reflect how the simple act of lighting a candle can change a mood, brighten a day, and be a reminder that you can find comfort even in uncertain times. All of my candle scents draw inspiration from nature (with two new ones launching for Spring!) and I’ve loved partnering with local businesses to create custom candles for them as well! My next collaboration will be launching in Fall 2024 and I’m so excited about it. I can’t share many details yet since we’re still in the development stage, but they will feature original artist illustrations with a fun pop culture theme!
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?
Resilience, reflection and bravery. Striking out on my own has been a lot more humbling than I ever imagined. Being a business owner means that you wear many hats and I’ve had to accept that I can’t be an expert at everything. Giving myself grace to learn and make mistakes has been invaluable. There’s a kind of blind optimism that I’ve adopted (and noticed in other entrepreneurs as well) that helps to keep me going. Part of that optimism comes from looking back, seeing where I’ve come from and what I’ve done – and knowing that it’s ok to pivot. Not every decision or risk taken is going to work out as I’ve hoped, but I’m always learning. Regardless of the outcome, I can take that knowledge and experience forward with me. Being brave comes into play in every aspect of being an entrepreneur. For most of us, it’s really scary to know that the safety net is little to none. But, the rewards are even greater. Being in control of your career trajectory and earning potential is so liberating – you just have to be brave enough to move toward it!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes! I love collaborating with like-minded brands who value true craftmanship with an earth conscious approach. I’ve partnered with hotels, retailers as well as other brands to create custom candles for their clients and customers. The Lys Collective is all about hygge, celebrating small moments and creating a cozy space to relax and enjoy. If this sounds like something your customers would love, you can email me at hello@thelyscollective.com or message me on IG @thelyscollective.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thelyscollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyscollective/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelyscollective/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-ottstadt-0849385/
- Other: Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyscollective?lang=en
Image Credits
Daniel Alcantara and Joanne Rabenarisoa
