Last year Kelly Baker launched her own beauty venture, The Beauty Insider, and last week the publication turned one.
This achievement, in addition to her new role as lifestyle editor at ten daily, means 2018 is going to be a big year for Baker. Below, BD asks her everything you need to know about her new role, her top networking advice, and the best press send out she’s ever received.
Can you please tell us a little bit about your background in the industry?
I started straight out of high school as a cadet journalist. When I was ‘qualified’ as a journalist I moved into magazines. I made the leap to digital about three years ago.
What will your new role at ten daily entail?
I’m the lifestyle editor and will oversee all of the lifestyle content including beauty, health, career, homes, food and so on.
Have you always wanted to work in journalism?
Yes. Always. Since I was 12 or so.
Can you tell us a bit about your education/training or industry qualifications?
I have a Masters in Professional Writing from UTS but really … everything I know I learned on the job.
What does an average day in the office look like for you?
ten daily is about to go live and so we are still tweaking and finessing and adding finishing touches.
But once we’re up and running, we will have a morning meeting and then get into it. There will be stories to produce and videos to shoot and launches to attend and interviews and ideas and TV too. It will be hectic but amazing.
Best thing about the industry you work in?
The women (and men) who work in it alongside me. For some reason this area of content seems to attract people who are not just clever but bold and brave and funny too. My favourites!
What are your can’t live without beauty products?
Micellar water and wipes. I am SO stupid busy and they can save such a lot of time. I’m also all about lash extensions. Always.
What has been your biggest career highlight?
Hmm … there has been so many, but launching my own site – beautyinsider.com.au – was definitely a stand-out. I have learned so much.
Top networking tip?
Be polite and respectful to everyone who crosses your path. Be interested and curious too. Everyone has something to teach you.
Which trend is exciting you about the beauty industry right now?
I’m all about natural and organic ranges and also, cutting-edge treatments. I love too the trend towards embracing your own style + look + gender and loving every little bit of yourself. That’s heart-warming.
Which brand or person is doing innovative things in the industry?
I admire the way Roxy Jacenko works so many aspects of her business together and in such a seamless fashion. Girl works so hard too. Plus she’s generous and kind.
Who in the industry do you most admire?
There are so many women (and men) in this industry who impress me but the ones who are bold and brave and innovative really turn my head. Folk who are willing to have a go – F the consequences. That’s impressive.
What’s the most memorable press send-out you’ve received?
Someone sent me a police officer who ‘arrested’ me. That was memorable …
What was the most memorable event you have ever attended?
Wow. There’s been so many it’s hard to say … I once flew business to Singapore to get a blow dry courtesy of Pantene. That was pretty special. New York with Estee Lauder – also awesome … But to be honest, any event where my favourite beauty editors are in attendance.
Who is your favourite person to follow on Instagram?
I can’t pick! I love folk who are genuine and bold and strong and clever and a little bit of hilarious is always good too!
Your mantra / philosophy is?
Be kind. Develop some compassion and apologise when you make a mistake.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing??
Crying quietly in a corner and wondering where it had all gone wrong.
