Welcome to the Day in the Life of a Creator series, where creators across industries and backgrounds share how they spend their days tackling their jobs, pursue their passion projects, and what advice for others looking to break into the creator economy.
About me
Name: Danielle Skeen
Location: Atlanta, GA
Occupation: Sr. Business Development Manager
Industry: Tech/Advertising
Side hustle or passion project: Caption-It! App, The Star Boutique, Danielle Skeen Consulting
Did you attend higher education or technical school? If so, what did you study, and does it have any bearing on what you are doing in your current job?
I attended Florida State University and majored in Communication with a minor in Journalism. Initially, I aspired to take on a career in media and entertainment with advertising and marketing as a plan B. Working in tech, but on the business/advertising side, I can see moments of alignment. The truth is the space I currently work in was not as robust an industry when I was in school as it is now.
What do you do in your current job?
My job is to drive demand for key Microsoft Advertising vertical ad products through strategic and commercial partnerships with external companies and brands.
Are you currently working on a side hustle or passion project and what does that entail?
I always have my hands on a few things. A few of my current projects and side hustles are:
- Danielle D. Skeen Consulting, consulting and coaching individuals who want to start their own business or nonprofit or to develop their personal brand.
- Caption-it! App, a mobile app that helps you caption those moments you can't quite put into words. Users can search through quotes, lyrics, and sayings to leverage as social media posts or to send to family and friends.
- The Star Boutique, Inc., a nonprofit organization created to support teenage girls who are in transitional housing. We provide them with empowerment, mentorship, clothing, and other immediate necessities to help aid their circumstances.
What does a typical day in your work week look like?
| 7:00–9:00 AM | This is my personal time. It allows me to ease into my day with a mindfulness or wellness activity. Whether it's a morning workout, journaling, or just scrolling Instagram, it's my moment of peace. |
| 9:00–10:00 AM | This is usually dedicated to one of my side hustles. |
| 10:00 AM–6:30 PM | These hours are dedicated to my work duties. During this time, I am in many meetings with both internal stakeholders and external partners. |
| 6:30 PM–10:30 PM | I try to shut down my screen time for about two hours to take a break, and then I'll complete any final side-hustle tasks or personal items. |
| 10:30 PM | I begin to wind down from the day. |
If you are juggling multiple jobs, how do you find a balance between them?
Juggling side hustles and a full-time corporate job is no easy task, however, I have found calendar blocks to be helpful. Blocking off time for each task or project and giving 100% in those moments has been beneficial and allowed for better productivity. I also know and acknowledge when it's time to step back and take a break to avoid burnout.
What tools help you in your job(s) on a daily basis?
Just about all of the Microsoft Office 365 products, including the templates available from Microsoft Create, and Cricut machine.
What is one tip you'd give others to help them think about standing out in what is now a very crowded creator space?
Be authentic. While the space may be crowded, being genuine and authentic will always be a magnet.
What advice would you give to other creators that you wish you knew when you got started?
It does not take having millions of followers to be an influencer. If your work, your words, your product, or your business can affect even just a few, that's still a valid influence. Aim to be influential and not an influencer.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Prior to the pandemic—a new country! Traveling overseas has always inspired and rejuvenated me. Especially African and Caribbean countries. Lately it has been nature. Simply taking a walk or going on a hike has been helpful.
Do you ever struggle with imposter syndrome, and if so, how do you overcome those feelings?
Absolutely! I understand that imposture syndrome is not something that will ever fully disappear, but I am quick to acknowledge the feeling or thoughts as they emerge and intentionally practice self-talk to dispel those thoughts. I constantly remind myself that imposter syndrome is set up for self-sabotage, and I've worked too hard for that!
What tips do you have for being authentic as a creator?
Allow yourself to be vulnerable and maintain consistency. Don't force-fit yourself into a role or make claims of being an expert in and of something. Walk it and there won't be a need for you to talk it—others will do that on your behalf.
If people want to learn more about you, where can they find you?
Feel free to send me a message on my website: Danielledskeen.com!