The first report regarding cyber interaction was made in August 1962 by J.C R. Licklider. There were a series of memos sent out discussing his ideas of a “Galactic Network” that would give individuals around the globe the ability to access data quickly and effectively through a series of programs. Today, individuals use the internet to maneuver through various circumstances regarding everyday life.
Tyler J. Blake, a young entrepreneur developed an interest in conducting product reviews while studying at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. As he attracted over 100,000 subscribers via YouTube, not only did his brand grow, but business relationships started to develop also. These relationships brought about opportunities for Blake to not only assess products, but expand into buying and selling apparel as well.
Looking for ways to inspire people through e-commerce and consulting online, Blake was able to start his own business, and has had much success since finishing college. Kicksundercost.com and Clothesundercost.com allow individuals to purchase quality products at discounted rates, read reviews and stay up to date on the latest releases within the apparel industry. With class and style, Blake has opened doors for not only himself, but others as well, turning what was once a daytime hobby into a promising career.
Rolling out got a chance to speak with Blake regarding his achievements.
How did you arrive at this career choice? Was it a deliberate decision or a gradual and natural evolution?
I would definitely say that it was a gradual evolution. I originally thought that I wanted to go law school before speaking to my peers and decid[ing] to get a business degree. After my first semester at Babson College and working on a mock business project, I knew I made the right decision. I liked what I was doing and was determined to figure out a way to leverage what I enjoyed into a career.
For those considering entering this arena, what skill sets do you recommend mastering? What traits are most conducive to success?
I would say mastering people skills and emotional intelligence. Work relationships are really big, knowing how to be empathetic and reasonable. Always have the willingness to listen.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about what you do? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
A lot of people believe that marketing is a fluffy space. What I try to do is be realistic in measuring the goals our customers have and reach them in ways that are most beneficial, lean and effective.
How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?
I definitely map out my goals and hold myself accountable for them. I also try to challenge myself in more ways than one. Right now I’m challenging myself to read more, exercise a bit more as well. This year I’m trying to hire 10 more people. If I don’t reach 10 at least [I hope to] be able to reflect back and figure out how I can learn from the mistakes I’ve made.
Why do you consider continued learning important?
Being that kids grow up and spend so much time in school, I think it’s easy to fall into the category of not wanting to put the extra effort into learning after finishing. I look at it as an opportunity to learn the things I’m actually curious about, though. I believe if you are not learning and developing, then you are setting yourself up to be irrelevant. Learning helps develop the ways in which we look at the world and with things always changing; you’ll have a better understanding of everything going on around you.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
I’m always coming up with new and effective ways to buy and sell online. My business wouldn’t be as effective if I didn’t have the ability to reach out to such a large group of people at once like I can online.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
I would change how people communicate and interact. Although I believe technology is great for networking and finding people, I also believe people have a hard time communicating face to face. I would want to change the lack of empathy hoping that people could come together to help each other find ways to solve issues within society.
What keeps you inspired?
Every two or three months I like to switch up ways of doing things, while making sure that I’m still on the right track. Self-reflection also, be an advocate for myself. Reach out and collaborate with others in attempt to gain knowledge and different outlooks on ideas and perspectives.
How do you stay connected to people on social media?
Taking the time to reach back out to people, giving an intelligent response. It feels good for people to feel like they are being thought of.
Social media: Instagram @TylerJBlake and Kicksundercost.com and Clothesundercost.com
