We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kait McKay a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kait , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I get my work ethic from my parents and if you’ve worked with me then you likely have noticed that I work really hard. They set a great example for me and even as a child I understood and respected the value and importance of having a strong work ethic. My dad was always in management and my mom was a labor and delivery nurse for 40 years (talk about dedication). Often both of my parents’ jobs called for them to be out the door before the sun rose and each day they worked hard for their family and to make their workplace better. Even after her retirement from the hospital, my mom still now works multiple jobs and gives 110% to each. Hard work, to me, shows dignity, respect, responsibility, dedication and so many more traits I hope my clients take away while working with me. Working hard is at my core and I’m leading by example so my daughter can see, understand and follow our lead (my husband is a nurse, too, and also works his tail off).
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My business is Kait McKay Photography. With an extensive background in photography and public relations, I help my clients to tell their stories and put their best faces forward. My clients have included nonprofits and businesses (large and small) as well as community leaders, individuals and families. Portrait, branding and event photography are among my specialties. I have been told many times that I capture the “essence” of my subjects. I work hard to tell worthwhile and authentic stories.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Aside from being skilled and experienced in my craft, I believe hard work, kindness and passion have been three important components that have been impactful in my journey. When I started my own business, I worked really hard and remained dedicated because no one was setting business hours for me or handing me work. I had to make a name for myself in my field and put myself out there to the communities and clients I wanted to serve. And, I truly believe one reason I’ve been successful is because I’m kind. No frills; I genuinely really care about people and show kindness to all, in every aspect of my life. People really appreciate kindness. We all deserve that. Lastly, being passionate about what you do is a huge motivator. What makes you excited to hop out of bed in the morning? If you’re lucky enough to find something you love to do, pursue that. Hone your craft, build your network, help others if you can. A passion for photography sparked a flame in me when I was a kid and hard work (and being a kind human) has helped my business to grow and rebuild (after moving to a new state and starting over from the beginning). Most of my work comes from return clients and referrals. If I didn’t work hard to do the best that I can and I wasn’t kind to my clients, I don’t think they would keep calling. Work hard. Be kind. Find your passion.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
If I am feeling overwhelmed, pausing can be immensely helpful as can talking through an issue with a colleague or trusted advisor. Sometimes when you’re in the thick of it, it’s difficult to see what needs to change or how. When I am feeling overwhelmed…I also pivot. I set boundaries. I schedule my time accordingly and try to keep the bulk of my work within those windows. I also prioritize what work I take on and ask important questions such as “Is this my target client? Is this job right for me?” And, if not, I kindly decline. I didn’t always realize “no” was perfectly acceptable (maybe even necessary) and the best option in some circumstances. Being selective is wise. Pause. Clear your head. Talk it through. There’s light at the end of each tunnel.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.kaitmckayphotography.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/kaitmckayphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaitmckayphotography/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kait-mckay-52515525
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kait-mckay-photography-coeur-d-alene
Image Credits
Portrait of Kait McKay by Addyson Little Photography // All other photos by Kait McKay Photography
