Meet Kit, a food and travel blogger based in Chicago. Her goal is to inspire you to get into the kitchen and cook at home, try new restaurants when you are dining out, and to travel to new destinations.
What's your job title & how did you get where you are today?
I’m the writer/photographer/recipe creator/world explore behind The Kittchen. The website launched in 2011 and became my full-time job in 2015. I love sharing stories and recipes and inspiring my readers to discover the world through food and travel. I think it’s the best job in the world and I’m grateful to be doing what I’m doing today after spending 7 years as a paralegal.
Tell us about a day at work you'll never forget!
I did a project with Jewel-Osco a few years ago and they flew me (and two close friends who are also bloggers) to LA where we got to meet Tiffani Thiessen. She made us ice cream sandwiches! I grew up watched Saved by the Bell so it was an epic day!
What's your advice about growing a brand or a personal brand?
You have to LOVE it. You need to love it so much that you will keep going, maybe for years, before you start making money. When you find something you are truly passionate about it doesn’t feel like work.
“I’m a fan of letting data do most of my talking, and it shows that I’m prepared and professional.”
How do you prepare for negotiation conversations?
I left my 9-5 job when I was unable to negotiate a raise for myself. My manager thought I was bluffing when I said I’d leave if I wasn’t paid more, and when HR acknowledged that I was underpaid and still refused to pay me more, I left. My advice is to always back up your requests with facts. Before you ask for a raise, chart out what you are doing that goes above and beyond your job description. See what competing companies are paying people in similar roles. Now when I am negotiating brand partnerships I give clear deliverables, timelines, and case studies of past projects. I also provide data on my blog readership and audience. I’m a fan of letting data do most of my talking, and it shows that I’m prepared and professional.
Did you ever agree to something in a negotiation you now regret doing?
When I was a paralegal I did lots of contract review so I go through everything with a fine-tooth comb. I’ve never missed anything major or agreed to something I regret. I also structure my business so most of my income comes in through ad revenue which means I don’t rely on brand partnerships to pay my bills and have the freedom to turn down any that aren‘t a great fit.
What one tip would you tell your younger self about negotiating?
Always ask for more money.
