Leading Ladies - Aliza Licht

I'm not sure you could go a week without seeing this branding icon gracing the internet with features in Forbes, Harper's Bazaar, Women's Wear Daily, and Glamour, just to name a few. Aliza Licht, best known as the voice of DKNY PR Girl, is now leaving her position as senior VP Global Communications of Donna Karen International to start her new journey as Founder & President of LEAVE YOUR MARK LLC. In her first book, LEAVE YOUR MARK, Aliza wrote the ultimate playbook for those seeking advice on personal branding as well as guidance for your career in this contemporary working world.  

Want to enjoy some sarcasm and whit on Twitter? Give Aliza a follow to connect!

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START?

Graduating with a BS in Neurobiology & Physiology was not exactly a great entree into the world of fashion. So I had to apply cold, without any connections or real knowledge of the fashion industry. I wrote what I thought was a great, honest cover letter and pretty much pleaded with the editors at Harper's Bazaar to give me a chance. Luckily for me they did! I started in fashion as an accessories intern at Harper's Bazaar.

WHAT RISKS DID YOU TAKE?

I threw away my pre-med education for a dream to work in fashion. I had no real plan or backup plan for that matter. I worked hard though and made great connections. My risk paid off.

WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT SCARES YOU?

You mean besides coffee not working? My biggest and most important goal is making sure my kids turn out great. That to me is my most important job.

LOOKING BACK ON YOUR CAREER, WHAT WAS A MAJOR TURNING POINT FOR YOU?

There have been many milestones, but creating DKNY PR GIRL and Donna Karan Atelier have been the highlights. 

WHAT ARE THREE PIECES OF ADVICE YOU'VE RECEIVED THAT YOU'VE CARRIED WITH YOU THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER?

Say thank you sincerely and often.

Mind your reputation.

Don't burn bridges.

BIGGEST MISTAKE?

I've made a million mistakes but they are all disguised as choices.You can look back and say this was a mistake or that was mistake but just like Gwyneth Paltrow in "Sliding Doors", you never know where that mistake led you to. I don't have regrets.