The Hustle
Years in Tampa Bay
10
Hustle (job)
Founder, CEO, Creative Director, #girlboss.
What do you do?
Short version: I’m a storyteller.
Long version: As a marketer, I create a funnel attracting and converting new clients for my customers through websites, blogging, email marketing, print, social media marketing and everything in between. We brand, we design, we code, we write, we research, we analyze, we consult and we do it all with humor.
Why do you do it?
I do it because I love seeing results. The fun part of digital marketing is we can SEE what works and why. Actual proof!
What was your Catalyst? (How did you get started?)
Before starting Hashtag Creative, I did marketing for nonprofits around the country but my eyes were opened by the power of “digital” marketing. When it came to fundraising, education, volunteer engagement and political involvement, no other medium could touch it. That power also crosses over to marketing businesses and products. My passion is to continue to share the power with others that, when used properly, shows how easily you can reach your goals with digital marketing.
What’s a common misconception or unknown aspect of what you do?
People think social media marketing is the same for businesses as it is for individuals. It’s a completely different animal. I’ve been doing this a long time and I know the magic formulas to success, versus what’s new and shiny.
What’s the most challenging part of your Hustle?
Teaching how digital marketing works in an ever-changing marketing environment. Most don’t know why they need what they need.
What’s the most valuable piece of business advice/insight that’s helped you?
If you put your heart and soul into your passion, it will support you.
Where did you cut your teeth?
I started in the fast-paced deadline world of newspapers. I had a strong creative streak but that taught me early, if you miss your deadline your work is seen by no one – the paper went to press at midnight, with or without you. Now that we publish around the clock in the digital world, one thing is still true. If no one is drawn to see it – you’re still out of luck. It’s not just creating the right message, it’s getting the right people to see it!
