March 3, 2014
Women’s History Month: ‘The Hip-Hop Professional’ Talks Gaining Career Longevity
Shanti Das is a power woman who knows a thing or two about pressing reset on your life and career. The author of The Hip-Hop Professional: A Woman’s Guide to Climbing the Ladder of Success (Press Reset Entertainment Publishing; $19.95), has held positions in the executive suites of labels including Universal Motown—building 20 years of experience in the music industry. She took a leap of faith in 2010 to launch Atlanta-based firm Press Reset Entertainment, which provides consulting, talent booking, event planning and mentoring services.
Having just updated her book (The Hip-Hop Professional 2.0), Das has been busy expanding her brand further, launching an interactive college tour to empower students with dreams of pursuing careers in the entertainment industry and a monthly music showcase called ATL Live on the Park.
BlackEnterprise.com caught up with Das where she shared three keys to longevity and leadership for women:
Integrity. “In business, all we have is our word,” Das says. “You always want to be a woman of your word, and make sure you let your work speak for itself.”
Self-Respect. It’s so important for women to respect themselves in the workplace. … In many situations in the entertainment business, I made sure that when I walked into the room, I exuded respect for myself, and I would [command] respect from my male counterparts.
Accountability. Stand up for your own actions. Even if you make a mistake, own up to it, and be able to move on from it. That’s what makes you a great leader. You get a lot more respect that way.