We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Paige Keslor. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Paige below.
Hi Paige, really appreciate you joining us to talk about a really relevant, albeit unfortunate topic – layoffs and getting fired. Can you talk to us about your experience and how you overcame being let go?
I was eight months pregnant when I was unexpectedly laid off. I had just completed a presentation for the company’s annual report and was asked to stay logged into the call when I got the news. I say unexpectedly because, I mean, who plans to be laid off, but also because I had no prior write ups or any indication that they were not happy with my performance.
I spent the next 18 months navigating being a first time mom, as well as, being unemployed. To say it was not easy would be an understatement. But it didn’t let my circumstance stop me. I devoted any free time I had to building my freelance business, promoting my art, and doing any side job I could find.
I kept going even when it didn’t make sense.
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?
It’s hard to pinpoint when I started my art journey. In some ways, I’ve always been an artist, but I would say I got serious about it in 2020. I started with a refurbished iPad and procreate and that became the foundation of the type of artist I am today.
If you know anything about being an artist, it’s that people assume you have many skills and talents, and that’s what led me to develop my graphic design skills. I started small, designing flyers and invitations, but overtime I started being asked if I could do more. Which led me to one of my most proudest moments, designing my first billboard!
I’m just excited that I get to work with people who are often just starting their brand or finally realizing they want to pursue their dreams. I’m proud of the work I do and the people I get to do it for.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Consistency, consistency, consistency.
My advice would be that consistency and how you choose to show up for yourself, looks different everyday. You’re going to have bad days, you’re going to make “bad” art, but that’s not where your story ends.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
They never questioned me being an artist. They’ve always been my biggest champions, even when I didn’t champion myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paigetstudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paigebydesign_/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
