We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stephanie Simpkins a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Stephanie , 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?
I’ve learned to be my authentic self regardless of who is in the room, but that’s not to say that it’s never challenging. When I am the only one who looks like me, I try to view it as an opportunity to show the room who I am and why the room is better because I’m in it. I’ve had more success by not shying away, but by engaging as authentically as possible.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am an image consultant located in Aiken, SC who enjoys helping clients style their bodies. It’s so exciting when I can see their confidence build right before my eyes! I offer several services to the community including personal shopping, closet rehabs, styling classes, and jewelry classes to name a few. I recently wrote Closet Rehab, The New Retail Therapy and Style Guide, an e-book available on lulu.com. I am hosting my second annual Small Black Business Expo which is free to the public on April 21, 2024 in Aiken, SC. I am passionate about creating custom statement jewelry and accessories; available online at thenicolesc.com.
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?
Three qualities that I think were most impactful in my journey are honesty, hard work ethic, and being able to learn from others. I would encourage anyone early in their journey to be sure they are willing to put in hours to learn their craft, listen to those who have gone before them and to be honest. Be honest when you make mistakes!
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Working out has become my new outlet especially when I feel overwhelmed. I also create a lot when I’m stressed. I would advise others to find creative and beneficial ways to deal with being overwhelmed. For example, I always benefit physically and mentally from working out.
Contact Info:
- Website: thenicolesc.com
- Instagram: nicolesimpkins_stylist
- Facebook: nicole simpkins collection
