In Conversation with Miriam Hiersteiner

Tell us about your background:

I have 10+ years of experience in creative. I started with a minor in communication design from Skidmore College and a degree in graphic design from Parsons. I’ve worked as a designer/art director/consultant in publishing, e-commerce, fashion, higher education, architecture, finance, the food/beverage industry, and interior design, among other fields. I recently started my own business, Miriam Hiersteiner Creative.

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

Fear of failure is worse than failure itself.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Get over yourself! So simple but so helpful. I get in my own way, paralyzed by lack of confidence or fear of failure (see above). These are self-imposed (and self-involved) obstacles to success.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Kindness, creativity, curiosity, humor, generosity, decisiveness, and intelligence.

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

The biggest challenge in my career was starting my own business. It took a lot of optimism, confidence, and savings to get it started, and even more to keep it going. That being said, I have learned more in the past year of my career than in all the years preceding it.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

My Ilana Kohn canvas jumpsuit, a collection of vintage button-down shirts, anything high-waisted, and clogs!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-hiersteiner/

Website: miriamhiersteiner.com

Instagram: @_mir_here_