We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful BJ Orr. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with BJ below.

BJ , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Any advice for creating a more inclusive workplace?

One of my key challenges working in corporate America was finding a place where I felt valued and respected. I worked in a few settings as 1 of the few black contractors in a majority white department. On occasions I would feel as though no one could really relate to me and would often question if people really respected my ideas. In retrospect, why would they?

How could I expect for a group of people from different walks of life and contrasting socio-economic backgrounds to relate to me. Yet still in order to grow and thrive within an organization you have to be able to connect and bond with the people you work with. That becomes challenging when you’re surrounded by people, who unlike you, share distinct traits, life experiences, heritage and distinct perspectives. With no one to relate to you are made to feel like an outsider. Instead of you being your authentic self you attempt to assimilate; which then causes you to devalue yourself, and ultimately your work and contributions. You simply feel like you don’t matter.

If a company is looking to develop a culture where employees feel valued and respected it doesn’t just end with employee recognition events and quarterly check-ins. They should recruit with the understanding that a company’s staff should be reflective of the communities they serve. Company leaders should seek diverse employees from various socio-economics backgrounds; gender identity, race and ethnicity. It’s about creating an environment where people feel comfortable being their authentic selves.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a Father, gym rat, Crypto enthusiast by night and Content Developer by day. I’ve had the privilege of working in the great city of Atlanta for over 20 years! After graduating from the Art Institute of Atlanta; I’ve since gone on to work with companies like Coca-Cola, CNN, Delta Air Lines, COX, Year Up, Deloitte, Chic-Fil-A, Fiserv, HubSpot and BarStool Sport to name a few.

I got my start as an intern at Whole world Theater; before securing a gig with FOX News as a Playback Technician. (The person that would pop the old school tapes in to play news stories) I went on to CNN; then landed a job at Coca-Cola before being laid off. That was the catalyst for my Entrepreneurial transition. I went out and bought a camera and my coworkers Mac computer; ordered some flyers to promote my services and hit the streets. I created a DVD product line as I began capturing underground content of local rappers. I would edit and package feature length DVDs to sell in local gas stations, malls and record stores. This process helped me forge my independence and provided a way out of the “9 to 5 grind”.

I now own a Production Company that services fortune 500s, Agencies, Nonprofits and small businesses. We are also working to develop original content for Social Media, Online streaming services and Network distribution. We work hard to provide professionalism in exceeding client expectations while delivering quality content. Our goal is to partner with companies that seek to educate, inform and inspire their audience through the development of Documentaries, Social content, E-Books, E-Courses and Corporate Film.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Everything is about relationships! And then being prepared for opportunities that come via those relationships. Don’t let anyone fool you into thinking it’s all about hard work, a college degree or having the best camera!

Most of my major opportunities came via a close friend, work associate or a customer. However, the relationship wasn’t the icing on the cake. My hustle was! I was constantly learning, upgrading equipment, updating my website, marketing my services via social media and not being afraid to network. The relationship may get you in the door but being ready is what closes the deal.

Getting ahead is all about tapping those key gatekeepers, getting in good with them; nurturing those relationships and being prepared to leverage key opportunities to grow your brand.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

I was laid off from Coca-Cola with 3 kids, a car note and a new mortgage. However, I was working as an employee…and being taxed out of my azz. I was forced to go freelance, working hourly and project to project. To my surprise I actually began to make more money. Why? I wasn’t being taxed as much. The additional money I was paying to Uncle Sam I could now put in the bank or re-invest it. I could also charge clients more because they weren’t providing employee insurance and other overhead costs.

My savings tripled in a matter of months! I took half of my earnings and bought my first camera and editing system; not knowing if I would make the money back. I just knew that I had to put myself in a position to never depend on a job again. I paid my coworker to build my website and design my logo and business cards. 5 figures later I was in business getting hired for editing and videography jobs.

I’m not sure what I did that was special outside of going hard and being professional. Once clients see that you can do good work and are professional they lock in with you!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bcreativemedia.net
• Instagram: @bjorr_bcreative
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bjorrBcreative
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjorr/
• Twitter: @bjorr_bcreative
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqt82pVPZzlvJyAbo8nY2TQ
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=xn6enCyplrgg5XEtj7ox2Q&utm_source=ishare