Welcome back to “6 Questions For A…”! Each week, we’ll ask someone 6 career-centric questions about themselves.
This week we’re chatting with Elisabeth Leonard. Elisabeth has worked with Rebecca Minkoff for the last six years and recently the two launched The Female Founder Collective. Fun fact: Elisabeth currently lives/works remotely all the way from Santiago, Chile!
1. Tell us about the kind of tasks in a typical day in your role.
A typical day? There’s no such thing! Each one is completely different. My morning coffee and walking the dog a few times a day are about the only constants! And I always start my day by knocking out as many emails as I’m off time zone and my inbox is absurd! And I always end the day attempting to answer a few final emails, gather notes, and put together an overview of the day so that I can start planning the next day.
I’m super organized and I love writing up my to do lists every morning while also reviewing the list from the day before. There’s something oddly satisfying about crossing things off your to-do list!
2. What is your favorite part of your job?
My job is a mix of many things, all of which I love. And every day is completely different. One the most rewarding and inspiring aspects of my job is being able to connect with, support and learn from so many amazing women. People and relationships are the best and most important part of my work. And new opportunities for growth consistently present themselves, so I don’t ever feel stagnant or bored.
I’m a digital nomad, an expat, a remote worker, so there really is no “typical” day for me. When you’re living in a new country, you’re often surrounded by new and stimulating experiences, and that changes your mentality regarding the way you view the world and the work you do. Living in New York my entire life, I thought it was the best place to network… until I moved to South America and realized that I had an advantage. Being an expat or living in a different country doesn’t just give you a “wow factor,” it also allows for you to bring something meaningful to the table for all parties.
3. What are some challenges you face?
Working remotely is tough. When you work “alone”, it’s easy to second-guess yourself without a team to bounce ideas off. Sometimes it’s hard to motivate myself in the morning and sometimes I have FOMO because I can’t be in NY for a big event. But then I realize how lucky I am to have the opportunity to live in a different country and still keep my job!
4. Who inspires you and why?
My mom. Cliche? Maybe. Cheesy? Whatever. The truth? DAMN RIGHT. She reminds me every day to keep smiling, keep being positive, and always keep going, no matter what happens. My mom has always told me to stay true to myself no matter what, take every opportunity and make the best of it, and love others just as I love myself.
5. Share some advice to someone aspiring to work for Rebecca Minkoff!
If you knew today was your last day, would you be happy with what you’re doing? if the answer is no, then change it. do what makes you happy. and live each day without denying your happiness. so, dream BIG, go after your dreams, do the things YOU want to do and be the person YOU want to be. get out there and show the world what you’re made of. there is no right or wrong way to exist. being human is messy. find glory in your own beautiful mess + be proud of who you are. Honestly, my advice is not job specific. My advice is a message for everyone. Don’t stop until you’re proud!
6. What did you want to be when you grew up? How did that change over the years?
“What do you want to do when you grow up” is one of the most complex questions. Yet one we continue to hear over and over again. I can honestly say I don’t know too many people who ended up becoming what they wanted to be when they were little. I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. Yes, I always dreamt of being a spice girl, or one of the Olsen twins. Ha! But I can tell you one thing, I never thought I’d be where I am today! I’m a true believer in hard work. If you put your head down and focus on your work, it will speak for you. If you’re not particularly ready for a role, don’t “fake it ‘til you make it”. It’s okay to admit that you are learning. In fact, I think you’ll be respected for your honesty and commitment.
Born and raised in Seattle, WA, Alexis now lives in sunny Los Angeles where she works as the Social Media Manager for Intern Queen. Aside from work, you can find her doing hot yoga, visiting friends in Seattle, or re-decorating her apartment. Say hi on Instagram!
