10 Questions with ... Mara Lankford

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I am a vibrant entertainer looking to step back "in front of the camera." I have experience with modeling, hosting and promoting events, blogging/copywriting, digital marketing, on-air talent, photography, and much more. I've always wanted to be in the entertainment business and I can say I was built for it.

1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?

I constantly remind myself of the things I've accomplished and what I did to reach those goals. Remembering what I've been through and knowing that I was strong enough to make things happen for my betterment pushes me to persevere through my next obstacle.

2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?

I began blogging again along with freelance work that allows me to sharpen my skills and bring in some type of income. I enjoy listening to music and volunteering my time for those who need my help. I enjoy reading articles on the latest pop and fashion culture along with those that provide a learning aid for me (I love to learn new things).

3) Do you plan on sticking with radio?

I would love to continue a career in radio. I eventually want to expand into the Internet radio/podcast world. I want to have the freedom to speak about anything in the most honest and unfiltered manner (respectfully, of course). I want to reach and attract those who enjoy an intellectual conversation. So yes, I plan on sticking with radio because it can open so many doors for me.

4) What's the best way to get your foot in the door?

For me, it has been simply sparking up a conversation with others. You never know whom you will meet and I can say that I've made some really good connections with others who have given me great advice regarding the entertainment industry and job searching.

5) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?

I want a position at a company that makes me feel appreciated and will allow me to grow. I am a person who doesn't like to feel constrained, therefore, being able to see what I'm passionate about and allow me to work within that passion works out for you and I; I am happy with the job I'm set to do, and the company gets my best work consistently. Any position that deals with social interaction, creative/hands-on work, designing, speaking to the public/social media audience, or one that allows me to be in a leadership position.

6) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, e-mails, rejection letters, etc.)

Many places I've applied to seem to limit my qualifications simply to the work history on my resume. I try to place as many "attention grabbers" on my resume, but with my previous work experience in sales, employers limit my abilities to only that. I have done so much creative work over the years and although I mention those skills, they seem to only look at the full-time positions I was hired for. At times I feel as though my cover letters are looked over. All in all, the rejections have been polite, yet hard for me to chew since I know that I am well qualified to deliver great work for the positions I apply for.

7) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs. How do you separate yourself from the pack?

Being that I am young and still hungry for success, I am not stuck in my ways. I make sure to stay active on social media and learn about the new, trendy marketing tactics. I am willing to learn and take constructive criticism, even if it's from someone younger than me. I don't believe that age is a way to value superiority, wisdom is. I enjoy seeing others succeed and will help others whenever I can. I remain humble even when I've accomplished a goal bigger than my imagination. I always see myself as an asset to whatever team I join. Being a leader, but knowing when to be the student is a rare quality many lack now.

8) What do you miss most about music/radio? The least?

I miss being an on-air talent. I had a show for some time while I was completing my Masters of Science in Entertainment Business degree at Full Sail University. Being able to structure my show and gain an audience was fun and fulfilling. I was able to be creative and lead my co-hosts throughout the process and deliver an amazing show. The thing I miss the least about radio is like any other job, the stress. Of course, there were more pros to the job than cons. I love everything about music being that it is one of the most creative ways to channel your emotions. Having my own show allowed me to pick and choose the music that was played, and I was able to support the local artists who wanted to advance their careers.

9) How will this experience change you when you get back to work?

If I were to land a job as a radio host, or someone who interacts with the market via social media, blogging, etc., I believe that my career would shoot to the stars in a heartbeat. I took time to work "behind the camera," but now I want to get back in the spotlight and share my perspective with the world. I want to help others and influence those who are like me ... still trying to find themselves.

10) Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years?

In the next five years, I will be on Forbes' 30 Under 30 list and will have a successful running business. Within the next 10 years, my empire and legacy will be established and I hope to have a family of my own. I would have traveled and experienced so much more. Also, my travel/food blog would be flourishing, lol.

Uh oh ... now you're on your own for getting new music. If applicable, name your three most recent purchases since leaving the biz.

I recently invested in Apple Music, which is heaven sent. I also invested in Pandora One, and I have actually bought a few CDs and vinyls.