Cynthia Zaweski, Founder and CEO, Ascent StoryCraft
A graduate of Suffolk University in Boston, I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication and Journalism. My career has taken me across the country, working as an on-air reporter and producer at local NBC and FOX affiliates in Louisiana and West Virginia. My passion for the written word led me to become a lifestyle journalist, with expertise in home decor writing and healthy living for leading luxury magazines. I’ve been honored with several Press Association awards for my news-you-can-use style guides, as well as long-form, research and interview-based pieces. Helping business owners effectively tell their stories and build their brand online led me to attend Columbia University’s School of Engineering, where I earned an advanced certification in Digital Marketing. I’m always staying up-to-date on the latest digital marketing strategy, campaign development, digital advertising and site analytics/reporting. Some of my expertise include HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Google Analytics, Facebook Insights, (CRMs) and MailChimp. In my spare time, I’m always looking for new ways to improve and lead a more fulfilling life while connecting with others along the way. I’m always down to try a new recipe, get into the garden and explore my neighborhood with my husband Jason and golden retriever, Molly.
What is your favourite social media platform?
Instagram. It allows me to reach my ideal audience in a genuine way.
Tell us about you and your current role or area of interest.
I am a veteran journalist and digital marketer who helps brands connect with their ideal audience through words. I work mostly with online coaches and serviced-base providers to pinpoint and hone their unique value propositions. I'm currently developing The Content Club to help solopreneurs and freelance writers connect with each other. Mentoring aspiring writers and content creators is a big goal.
What do you like about your career or area of focus?
Storytelling has always been at the heart of my career. It's an honor to help business owners share their message and find the people they are meant to service through their talents.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Never stop learning.
What inspires you, motivates you, or helps you to move forward?
Thinking outside the box, especially when coming up with content ideas for blogs and social media really lights my fire. I am a huge fan of books, podcasts and courses that help motivate me.
What are you proud of in your life so far?
Starting and running a successful business.
What is your preferred way to meet new people/network?
I love in-person meetings/events, but given the world circumstances, niche Facebook Groups, Clubhouse, and Instagram have all been a great way to connect with like-minded people.
What skills or qualities do you feel have helped you?
Resourcefulness and perseverance.
What do you wish you had known when you started out?
Life isn't a game of checking boxes (get the job, get married, buy a house). Enjoy the process and define success for yourself.
Who do you most admire in business, academic or creative circles and why?
Jenna Kutcher is a big inspiration. I love how she shows up in the world, sharing her gifts to help others share their gifts.
Outside of your professional/work area, what hobbies or interests do you have or what other areas of your life are of real importance to you?
Gardening is my number one hobby outside of work. I love caring for my property.
Has the pandemic had a positive or a negative effect on you and/or your business, and how have you been managing it?
The pandemic has helped my business. So many businesses that relied on in-person networking and their brick and mortar locations needed to pivot online quickly, which is my area of expertise.
Do you have a mentor or have you ever mentored anyone?
Yes, both.
What advice would you have for someone looking to get into the same area of work or interests?
Start today. I encourage new writers to just start writing. It sounds obvious but so many new writers get stuck when they have no portfolio or start comparing themselves. Start a blog, volunteer writing services for non-profits to build your portfolio, and never stop honing your skills and developing your voice.
What do you feel is the most common reason for people failing or giving up?
Rejection or poor time management.
Is there a phrase, quote or a saying that you really like?
“Your life is your party. You get to choose how you invite people and experiences and things into it.” - Jen Sincero.
What companies, brands, or institutions do you like or do you think are getting it right?
Warby Parker immediately comes to mind.
How do you define success, and what lessons have you learned so far that you could share with our audience/readership?
I define success as life on my terms. The biggest lesson I have learned is not to let yourself down. If you tell yourself you're doing to do something, do it. Don't say you're starting a diet Monday if you know in your heart of hearts you're not committed. Little letdowns drain your self-confidence. Only make promises you can keep to yourself and others.