Interview with Dominique Johnson

Dominique Johnson, writer and blogger

1. What is your profession?
I am a blogger and freelance writer but also pursuing a career in higher education.

2. Why and how did you get into this profession?
For me, writing has always been involved in my profession. Whether it has been tutoring, blogging, or writing in my diary, the art has always been right by my side. It’s what helps me get through the day and grasp an understanding of who I am. I am my true self when I write.

3. What did you hope to get out of this career as a professional and on a personal level?
I want to make an impact with my writing. Meaning, I want someone to read my work and get a break through or it sparks a conversation. I want to be remembered as a writer who was not afraid to write about things others are sometimes scared to write about and discuss.

4. What is something unique you bring to the industry as a writer?
My perspective and voice are what makes me unique as a writer. There aren’t that many Black plus size female writers sharing their experiences about their bodies. Because we are a rare tribe, I find it important to share and write my encounters so other women like me feel like they are not alone.

5. What do you wish you would have known about your profession before you started working in it?
I wish I would have known that acquiring opportunities requires networking. Had I known this, I would have attended more conferences, lectures, workshops, etc. earlier in my career.

6. Do you feel you are compensated fairly for the work you do?
Right now, I’m much more about gaining exposure as a freelancer so I’m not necessarily upset if I do and do not get compensated for my work. Ask me the same question in a few years and I’m sure my answer will have changed.

7. What are some obstacles you have faced in your profession as a woman of color?
I find that it’s harder to get our foot in the door, specifically when submitting to publications. At times, I often feel that publications want to hear from women of color but don’t take a chance on them and their writing. Even if the subject matter is the same, everyone’s experiences are different. Why not have more than one perspective out there so the world sees multiple views? I think editors need to not make it so difficult for people, especially people of color, to share their work.

8. What are some opportunities you have come across in your profession as a woman of color?
There are several opportunities such as being a contributor for The Mary Sue or writing for Blavity. These opportunities have come to me by being a part of a Facebook group that posts nothing but jobs for writers. I think every writer should be in a similar group for networking and job purposes.

9. What advice would you give to women of color who want to follow your career path?
Don’t be afraid to share your story. It’s yours and no one else’s. It’s unique in spite of what people may say. Put your content out there, even if you just start with a blog, podcast, YouTube channel, etc. You never know who is reading, watching, or listening.

10. Anything else you would like to add.
Be your authentic self, even if it makes other people uncomfortable.
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Thank you Dominique for sharing your wisdom and experience with us! 

You can find Dominique's work at www.dominiquesjohnson.com and follow her on Twitter @thedominiquesj

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