Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alyse Tatum. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Alyse, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
More often than not, I’m the only person who looks like me at events where content creators or creatives are invited. So if there’s a plus one, I’m always sure to bring another Black creator with me. It helps get them more exposure and show whoever is throwing the event that it’s definitely ok to invite more than just blonde women with the exact same aesthetic.
Whether or not I’m able to invite someone else, though, I always move in a way that hopefully encourages the event throwers to invite/include more diverse people in the future.
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?
I am an African-American content creator and journalist located in the Austin, Texas, area.
I launched my blog January 1, 2021, focusing on home design, food and drinks, and travel. I first attracted my audience with home DIY projects and makeovers while mixing in food and lifestyle content on Instagram. Since then, my content has evolved to include travel, highlighting local businesses, and partnering with well-known brands who align with my morals and personal brand.
Since January of 2021, I have also been contributing to online media outlets and travel magazines as a writer and reporter.
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?
I believe my ability to learn and adapt to new things and trends really helped me along the way. Also, writing and storytelling have always been my favorite pastimes. So, that definitely helped when I decided to pursue journalism.
The biggest aspect that continues to help me progress is not being afraid to go after what I want or to be told no. That fear keeps so many people from pursuing their dreams and goals.
My advice to help improve your skills in any field is to practice and get feedback from people whose opinion you trust. Also, don’t be afraid to put your work out there.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
I would say my biggest area of growth has been not overthinking my projects. I almost missed a deadline in the past because of this, and when I contacted my client and told them, they actually loved what I already had.
I’ve also been letting more of my personality show in my work. We have to remember what attracted our clients to us in the first place and not give in to what we think is the “right way” of doing things. Cookie cutter is boring. Stand out. Be your authentic self.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.itsalysenicole.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsalysenicole
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alysenicole85
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ItsAlyseNicole
- Other: Pinterest https://pin.it/21EAXPz
Image Credits
Ryan L. Imagery; Alyse Tatum
