What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics? I was always interested in science as a kid and thought I was destined to be a doctor. Fast forward to freshman year of college, and I realized pretty quickly this wasn’t the right path for me! I found an introductory nutrition course and took it. I learned that nutrition combined many of my passions: helping people, staying healthy, and of course science. It was a perfect fit!

Your Job Title? Founder & Digital Strategist

Company you are with now? Whitney Bateson Digital Strategy, LLC

Website:
– whitneybateson.com 

Social Media:
– Twitter: @whitneybateson
– Instagram: @whitneybateson
– Facebook: facebook.com/whitneydigital
– LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/whitneybateson 

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you? I’m currently transitioning out of my corporate position at Chartwells K12 and into my business full-time, so a lot of work is done at night and on the weekends for the next few weeks. I spend most of that time working on client projects, creating proposals, and developing DIY marketing courses. I’m really excited about a project I’m finishing up right now for two dietitian chefs who wanted their business’s website to show off their recipes and appear higher in search results. We created a whole new recipe layout that will attract more website visitors but also showcase the culinary nutrition consulting services they offer too. It was fun researching the different WordPress recipe plugins, customizing the format to their brand, and training them on the software. 

How did you get your current job in dietetics? It was through my job at Chartwells that I found my calling – creating design, training, and technology solutions for nutrition-focused businesses. A few years ago, I was going through the exercises in the book “Do What You Are” (by Paul D. Tieger) and I realized that I’m happiest when I’m learning a new software program, designing something, or teaching others – which is what I spent much of my time doing at Chartwells very successfully. However, I became frustrated with the lack of resources for dietitians to integrate new, innovative tools – like video, websites, graphic design – into our everyday activities. Therefore, I started my company based on the belief that all dietitians should have access to these tools so we can reach customers and clients more effectively, and ultimately improve their health and wellbeing.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I’ve always been creative – drawing, painting, crafting. I’d also say I’m good at investigating things to find out how they work, and at solving problems. I think my success comes from the fact that I’ve found a way to capitalize on these skills and apply them in a business setting. I’ve also developed leadership, project management, and technical skills through the jobs I’ve held – those have definitely been learned and honed as I’ve progressed through my career.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? I’ve always strived to learn and grow and make sure my superiors knew what I was capable of and ready for – and that strategy has paid off. I’ve received two promotions by consistently demonstrating my skill set and being ready for that next opportunity. I think that’s critical for anyone looking to progress in their career – you may not know when or where that next opportunity will come from, so start preparing now and show what you’re capable of without being asked. Along those same lines, it’s also important to take some risks, whether it’s applying for a new job, starting a business, or even just taking on a more complex project in your current position. I’ve cultivated a support network over time that includes friends, mentors, and recently a business coach – this has helped me feel more comfortable taking risks because I know I can turn to these people for guidance if and when I need it.

I’d also suggest giving some thought to what truly makes you happy – we can sometimes get so focused on others’ definitions of success, we lose sight of what we want and are good at. Find a way to do more of what you love, and you’ll find greater success.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? Office supplies from Paper Source

Sarah Koszyk is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta. A family-based wellness program and blog focusing on recipes, family health tips, and videos with kids cooking in the kitchen. She is a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Coach specializing in sports nutrition and adult and pediatric weight management. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or LinkedIn.