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WE Magazine interviews Becky Mollenkamp Founder of Becky Mollenkamp Creative Services

Tell us about how you chose your career/business and what your responsibilities include?
I’ve known I would be a writer since I was 9 years old. I was the editor of my high school and college newspapers and have undergraduate and graduate degrees in journalism. What I didn’t know, however, is how much I’d also love to help entrepreneurs develop their businesses. Today, I am a sole proprietor who divides her time between writing for magazines and helping small businesses tell their stories to their customers.

Tell us about your company.
For the last 5 years, I have been a self-employed writer and editor. I provide content to national magazines, business-to-business publications, and the local media. Additionally, I work with small businesses (mostly woman-owned) to create copy for web sites, brochures, and other marketing materials. I also help companies with their social media efforts and provide marketing consultations.

What are some of the most fulfilling projects you have been involved with so far?
Every project I take on becomes a fast favorite. Most recently, I’ve helped the local Boys & Girls Club write grant proposals to secure new money for their programs. I’m also an active member of the National Association of Women Business Owners and really enjoy any work I get to do for its members. Personally, I am a runner (I completed my first marathon last year) and enjoy volunteering with Girls on the Run, which helps young girls build their self-esteem by completing a 5K race.

Are there any people in your field you would like to meet and/or work with and have not yet had the opportunity?
My favorite activity is networking because I get to meet the most amazing people. While I would love to someday meet and learn from people like Sarah Gray Miller (editor-in-chief of Country Living) or Oprah Winfrey, I find the most remarkable people are those who are working hard everyday to make a difference in their own communities.

What are some of your favorite ways to network?
Any event or gathering can be a networking opportunity. I enjoy volunteering in group settings because I get to do some good while also getting to know new and amazing people. I’m also particularly fond of women’s groups like NAWBO or my local Women’s Development Connection because I find them to be especially warm and inviting.

Do you have a mentor – if so how did you choose one another?
Just by simply asking, I landed an amazing mentor in in the form of a local entrepreneur. I cannot wait until I have the opportunity to serve as a mentor—I’m just waiting for someone to ask!

What have you learned from your mentor? What do you hope to learn?
My mentor is a master at networking and I really appreciate her amazing advice.  She has graciously taken me under her wing to teach me the do’s and don’ts of networking and is always willing to provide an introduction to anyone in town. One of her best bits of advice is to serve as a connector at networking events—introducing people to each other (even those you’ve just met) makes you look like an authority.

What’s been the most surprising thing that has happened to you so far in your career?
I always thought I knew exactly what I’d do “when I grew up”. What’s surprising is life has its twists and turns and where I am now is nothing like I pictured when I entered college. And I’m so happy for it.

What do you do for fun/relaxation?
I’m a budding athlete and considering getting my fitness instructor’s license. I also run a book club for women called “Books & Booze,” shop like it’s going out of style, watch a lot of movies, and play Sudoku on my iPhone.

Any parting advice for someone who would like to follow in your footsteps?
Find your own footsteps. I don’t mean to sound snarky, but it’s so important to find your own way in life. Having people you respect and finding a mentor is great, but don’t become a shadow. Find what you love and what makes you special, and then turn those into a career tailor-made for you.

How can our readers connect with you?
I am a social media junkie and can be found at Facebook.com/beckymollenkamp, on Twitter @beckymollenkamp, and at LinkedIn.com/in/beckymollenkamp.

Learn more about Becky’s services at http://www.beckymollenkamp.com

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