In Conversation with Abbey Rachel Liebman

Tell us about your background:

I am a footwear and accessories designer and product developer based in NYC! I have traveled all over the world to factories designing and producing footwear and accessories for corporate and startups. I launched my own consultancy in 2021. I also sell crystal and leather jewelry to several boutiques around Brooklyn and Westchester NY, it's my little passion project. I am looking to grow my client base working for more corporations and small brands.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

That we need to constantly reinvent ourselves as designers! Once you feel like you are coasting, that's when you need to reinvent!

Best career advice you've ever received?

Don't take criticism personally. Take emotions out of your designs.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Knowing how to delegate, kindness, trust.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

Trusting myself on next steps and not giving up on the route.

How do you define success in your career, and how has that definition evolved over time?

Success for me is actually enjoying being a designer and valuing the flow that can be created when there is space to dream. But also it's being respected in the industry and knowing people come to you for a specific skill set. It's changed because right now I value balance and companies that respect that we have lives too.

How has networking contributed to your professional growth and success?

Most of the positions I have ever had have come from a reference or someone I met and not from a job board.

What are your top networking tips for building strong connections in your industry?

Make friends with the people on your team, follow up with them if they have left the company for somewhere else. As there is a lot of movement, it's important to continue to stay in touch with everyone.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbey-rachel-liebman-95bb4014

Website: https://abbey-liebman.squarespace.com