WEEN Academy Mentor Spotlight: Nicole Manigault
Why did you decide to be a WEEN Academy Mentor?
I decided to become a WEEN Academy Mentor because I think it’s important to “give back” in order to live a balance and purpose-filled life. In this instance, I’m able to offer my time, and the knowledge I’ve gained while working in media relations. I am excited about the opportunity to help other young women define and pursue their career goals.
Tell us one interesting fact about your personal/or professional background that served as groundwork for you to become a mentor?
Growing up as a kid, I watched my dad mentor young men throughout his professional career. As a result, I became aware of the importance of assisting other young women in pursuing their goals, whether personal or professional. It’s always been my desire to follow in his footsteps.
How did you build your personal/professional brand?
I worked extremely hard. When I was in college I interned like crazy, while maintaining a job throughout all for years. Once I graduated, I continued to build my resume as a page at CBS News. There were days when I worked form 4:45 am at “The Early Show,” till 8 pm at BET’s “106th and Park,” which taped at CBS’ studios. I knew that the hard work I put forth would eventually pay off, and it did. I didn’t even apply to my first gig in public relations – my employers sought me out and offered me a position. The time and effort I put forth during those first couple of years, spoke to what I was capable of.
And with that said, I’m still in the beginning stages of “building my brand.” Developing my career will be a continual process.
What are two gems that you wish someone would have told you about the business?
First – Make it your point to build professional relationships as an intern. When you’re just starting out and trying to get a feel for the industry, you can make some great contacts at that level, who can assist you when you’re seeking employment down the line. Don’t complete your couple of months and move on without staying connected to the individuals who you worked with and learned from.
Second – It won’t be easy. Working in media can be challenging. A lot of time and effort must be put into your work if you want to have a successful career. Be prepared for that.
Who is/was your most significant mentor and why?
I think my most significant mentors are my parents, Judith and Richard Manigault. They’ve both worked in the creative field since I was little, which has had a HUGE impact on me, both personally and professionally. They’re both God-fearing individuals, which translates in their work on a daily basis. They’re both genuine, kind, and extremely talented, and have influenced me in so many ways.
What are some things that you are doing to make the entertainment business a better place for women?
I think it’s important to have overall good character as a woman (or man) in this business. A positive attitude and great work ethic can go a long way, and I make it my point to embrace both. The truth is, public relations is known for being a cut-throat industry, but so much of what the business entails is based on your interactions with others and the relationships you build. It’s important to be someone who others will want to approach. Putting forth a positive attitude when working alongside other professionals helps to create a more welcoming environment for both men and women to break forth into the industry and do their thing.
Who would play you in a modern day movie about your life and why?
I honestly have no idea!
What do you believe are important tools needed to survive in the entertainment industry?
I think its important to be fearless and confident in your abilities – a lot of the tools you’ll need to make it in this business, you’ll learn along the way. But, you must have the mindset that you can get whatever needs to get done, even if you don’t have all the answers immediately. It really starts with a positive mindset. Once you have that, you can strategize, plan and attack anything head on.
I also think its important to develop tough skin. Things won’t always be peachy in this business – there are a lot of demands and a lot of strong personalities, and you’re going to have to let some stuff roll off. Don’t take everything to heart. Learn to deal with tough situations quickly and move on.
What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishment?
There was a time when I was conflicted about which career path to take. And when I thought I had made a decision, I had a difficult time finding work – it was like everything came to halt. I think one of my biggest accomplishments was not allowing myself to be defeated at this time in my life. I kept going. I kept searching. And when I wasn’t able to find what I was looking for, I created new opportunities for myself.
Famous or not: Name one woman who embodies what you think a real woman is and explain. Dead or alive
I think my mom is a great example of a “real woman.” She’s done an amazing job at being a wife and mother, while pursuing her goals and interests. She modeled professionally when I was little. When she gave birth to my brother and sisters, she stayed at home to make sure she could be fully engaged in our lives. Now she’s developing her own faith-based online publication (lingk2us.com), which is allowing her to travel, network and interview noteworthy entertainers and personalities. She’s done this completely from the ground up, while staying grounded in her faith. She’s fashionable, down-to-earth, honest and “real.”
Tell us something about you that people do not know?
I’m pretty much an open book. But, I love the fine arts. I could go wander through an art gallery or museum by myself any day.
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