Hayley Gripp is a holistic blogger/chef, humanitarian, internationally published writer and creative content creator. As someone who loves to give back, Gripp uses her influence to help others through her humanitarian work and many charitable endeavors. She played a prominent role in getting the anti-bullying law “The IDEA Act” passed and has spoken to 90k on the bullying epidemic. Read our interview with the lovely Hayley below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
Well as someone who works many jobs: writer, personal chef and humanitarian, I wanted to do something that could incorporate all of those aspects. Blogging seemed the best choice and social media goes along with blogging. People actually ask me what I do as a day job!
Tell us about your business.
I collaborate with brands to create organic content for their personal and professional use. I also connect brands with different charities and consult on social media.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Not at the moment, but my new website and blog will be launching at the end of February and I will be giving away quite a few surprises.
List awards/certifications/
Got the IDEA Act Passed, The CARE Bill passed, have been published in multiple magazines.
Where is your business based?
I split my time between Los Angeles, California, and New York City.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
The first step I took was teaching myself how to brand myself. I was so to speak – my own social experiment. Distinguishing who I am marketing to and what I am marketing was key. Knowing how to identify your market demographic group is essential to working with brands. You would be surprised how many brands are marketing to the wrong people.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Instagram. Instagram has been an amazing networking tool. And to clarify, I mean my own personal Instagram. People can tell by my feed that I am organized, positive and that I know what I’m doing.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
When Instagram algorithms change, your followers and likes can go down. You constantly have to be creative. Also coming up with concepts that haven’t been done. When I work with brands I start from scratch and implement all of my own ideas. Finding inspiration is always fun though! Sometimes I’ll take a day and go on a mini adventure, bring products and my camera and make magic happen!
How did you overcome these challenges?
With the algorithms, there isn’t much you can do but continue to be engaging. As for continuously coming up with original content, I’ve learned I’m not perfect and that’s ok. I’m good at what I do and I love it. As long as I try my hardest – that is all that matters.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I remind myself that the only thing worse than failing is not trying at all. Sometimes brands are not a great fit and that’s ok! I try not to take anything personally.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
By simply being me! So many people try to fit in with everyone else, but I try to stand out! I also keep a positive vibe going as a constant theme. Always keep it light!
What is the best advice you have received recently?
Sometimes you need to keep your ideas to yourself, even those close to you can become jealous and take your ideas.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Never give up and do something you’re good at. Don’t do something because it’s cool, find your strengths and master them.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
I love the editing app VSCO cam. Also shooting on marble is a great way to highlight products in a clean way!
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @hayleygripp_official
Twitter @hayleygripp
Facebook @hayleygripp
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“Rich Dad Poor Dad” is a classic but always a good one! Recently I re-read it for the third time.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I learn something new every day. Right now I’m bettering my skills at photography. I want to always do a hundred percent.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
I hope to eventually hire on a staff and run an independent content creation agency, not so much PR, but strictly content.