As Long as I Believe in Myself, I’ll Be Able to Adapt to Any Situation

Lindsay Scholz has dedicated her life to making your career dreams a reality. She’s the founder and editor-in-chief of That Working Girl, a platform where young women can share their stories, learn from each other, and feel empowered to pursue our creative calling! But it hasn’t been easy. She was laid off from her first job, but she’s never let challenges derail her – and neither should you!

How did you start That Working Girl?

I launched That Working Girl after an amazing, inspiring trip to New York City. At the time I was a junior in college, majoring in journalism, and I was itching for a way to connect with other ambitious, like-minded women. I was in New York for a journalism conference and I was selected to shadow at Cosmopolitan Magazine. Needless to say, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While I was there, I had the chance to speak with the magazine’s editor-in-chief, who totally inspired me to write about what I loved – which is inspiring women to find ultimate fulfillment in their careers.

Four years later, I’m still working on the site each and every day and growing my brand along the way.

How did your experiences prepare you?

My previous experiences have all played a small part in leading up to the bigger picture of That Working Girl. As a journalism major, I understand the value of telling an interesting and compelling story, which I try to weave into all of my content. My next venture into public relations showed me that staying relevant and on top of trends in media is key to succeeding as a publisher. My most recent career jaunt into social media is the cherry on top. I’ve learned that building a solid social presence is key to connecting with others in your industry. As of now, I’m juggling full-time work as well as generating content for That Working Girl, taking on freelance writing and design projects and providing career consulting services.

That’s a lot! What challenges have you faced?

One of the biggest challenges that I’ve faced was overcoming getting laid off from my first job. I was one of the lucky graduates in my class who landed a cool advertising agency job right out of school, which was awesome! However, just two months in – and after I’d signed a hefty lease in downtown Atlanta – I was let go along with several colleagues. It was devastating, to say the least. I had hardly found my footing and independence and everything was pulled out from under me. However, in two months I found a better job and I haven’t looked back since! I’ve subsequently lived in Denver and St. Louis, and I’ve learned that as long as I believe in myself I’ll be able to adapt to any situation that my career leads me to.

Very true. What is your biggest accomplishment so far?

I would say that my biggest accomplishment so far has been building a personal brand that allows me to connect with and help others! The best parts of my week are when a reader of my blog reaches out to say hello or thanks me for a specific article that’s been published on the site. Even better is when someone local reaches out to grab coffee after finding my site. Those real-life connections are what I live for!

Can you share some resources that have helped you along the way?

A few huge resources that have helped me along the way include Kelly Cutrone’s book, “If You Have to Cry Go Outside,” my AP Stylebook (thanks, journalism!) and my amazing friends and peers in Atlanta, Denver, and St. Louis who have pushed me to face the fear and feel it anyway when I’m on the cusp of doing something great.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned so far?

Be nice – it’s easier than you think! Also, to own up to your mistakes when you make them and don’t try to hide them. Honesty will trump a shady cover-up any day. Also, re-reading your emails once over (or three times over!) before sending is always worth it.

Do you have any advice for young female entrepreneurs?

Learn how to balance your time from the get-go. Honestly, it’s something that I still struggle with a few years into this great adventure. When working full-time you quickly realize that your time is precious outside of work, so spend it wisely on the projects and people that bring you the most joy!

Lindsay Scholz is living her dreams!

Interview conducted by Shelcy Joseph, 1,000 Dreams Fund contributer