We caught up with the brilliant and insightful JoAnna McMurray a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
JoAnna, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
I keep my creativity alive by finding inspiration through mindfulness and self-reflection. Stepping out of my comfort zone sometimes to experiment and take risks when creating different types of content. I also find inspiration from fellow creators like myself, music, films, and nature.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a Louisiana based Wife and Mom of 3 and I create content based on beauty, fashion, and my lifestyle. In the form of photo and video content. I work with brands to make content for my social media accounts, and I also make UGC (User Generated Content) for brands social media accounts. I also make inspirational content in the form of affirmations, decor, and quotes.
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?
Being a successful beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content creator requires a diverse set of skills such as
Creativity: Ability to come up with fresh and engaging content ideas, including unique makeup looks, fashion trends, and lifestyle tips that resonate with your audience.
Makeup, Beauty, Fashion Skills: In-depth knowledge of makeup techniques, skincare routines, and beauty product recommendations, along with the ability to create visually appealing makeup looks for tutorials and reviews. A Keen eye for fashion trends, styling tips, and outfit coordination, along with the ability to curate visually appealing fashion content that resonates with your audience’s style preferences.
Business and Marketing Savvy: Understanding of digital marketing principles, audience demographics, and monetization strategies (e.g., affiliate marketing, sponsored content, brand partnerships) to grow your online presence and monetize your content effectively.
My advice for someone new is to don’t be afraid to start with what you have, you don’t need fancy equipment to make content. As long as you can make good quality content that is valuable to you and your audience that is all you need.
You don’t have to go buy a bunch of new makeup or clothes etc. Use what you have already to make content.
Also, learn about contract terms when doing business with business, make yourself a media kit and a UGC Portfolio to showcase your work.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
I have successfully monetized both of my Facebook accounts. And I have grown my personal/public account to to 21K supporters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/joannamcmurray
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannamcmurray_/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannamcmurraycollab?mibextid=dGKdO6
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/joannamcmurray_
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@joannamcmurray?si=Eah3pHwhZheGzV3j
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/jcmcmurray
Image Credits
Trophy Shot Photography Montel Christopher
