Sr. Editor, Social Distribution at Only In Your State
Kristen Taylor is a content creator, community builder, collector of words, and voracious learner. As the Senior Editor, Social Distribution at OnlyInYourState (a Leaf Group brand) she crafts data-backed digital strategies and produces engaging content for social media designed to entertain, inform, and benefit followers. Beyond social, she has experience in newsletter and content marketing, audience development, SEO, and brand management. Kristen is an award-winning public speaker, author, and digital artist.
When she’s not creating content, she’s working on creating change. In addition to her years of volunteer work with various organizations, she is a leader in the Women at Leaf Group ERG, and is a member of the DEI (Diversity/Equity/Inclusivity) Council.
If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be, and why?
That’s such a fun question! There are a few possibilities, but I think I’d go with “Life In My Years” That’s based on the saying, it’s not the years in your life that matter, it’s the life in your years. It’s a reminder to live life fully. I go into every situation with as much enthusiasm and energy as possible, and I try to see challenges as opportunities. I focus on the good, and on everything I’m grateful for – my amazing family, wonderful friends, fantastic coworkers, and even things as simple as the beauty of the sky at sunset. I have a zest for life, I seek to spread joy, and I do as much living as I can.
Tell us something about your professional journey.
I think that a lot of my professional journey has centered around being adaptable and embracing change. Change is necessary for growth. When I started with OnlyInYourState, a travel and adventure website, the company was brand new. The job was supposed to be a part-time freelance writing position – one of several sites I was writing for, including my own. I liked being able to pick and choose my projects. However, I was soon asked to become an editor. I took a chance investing all of my time into a start-up but I’m so glad I did.
The website grew and we were eventually purchased by a company called Leaf Group. You never know exactly what will happen after a buyout, but it worked out better than I could have imagined. The leaders, the company culture, it’s been great. It’s with Leaf that I’ve really grown into my social media marketing role, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Why did you get involved with the AMA-New Jersey chapter? Why is this organization important to you?
I initially joined primarily for networking opportunities. I was looking to connect with other marketers, and I have. Everyone has been amazing! But, I quickly realized that AMA-NJ offers so much more than meetups with like-minded people. There’s just a wealth of information available to members – research, training, tools, and templates. I enjoy being part of a community that fosters my professional growth.
What is the best advice you would give to professionals in your industry?
Never stop learning. Social media platforms are constantly changing and it’s important to keep up. A strategy that worked 2 or 3 years ago may not work now. You need to stay on top of the trends, and any major updates. You really want to know how each platform works. Classes can be incredibly useful – I was actually certified as a Digital Marketing Pro through the Digital Marketing Institute x AMA partnership – but, with the speed things change, you might also consider following relevant blogs or podcasts. Many social media networks operate their own blogs and make important announcements there. Follow them and you’ll be the first to know about anything new.
Do you have any favorite digital marketing blogs that you follow?
Yes, I have a few. Off the top of my head, I follow digital marketing blogs from Hootsuite, HubSpot, and Moz.
If someone wants to connect with you, what is the best way to reach out to you on social media?
You can reach me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-a-taylor/Kris
