From HR to Solopreneur: My TikTok Journey

Introduction

From being in the HR Business Partner (HRBP) role to becoming a solopreneur consultant and TikTok star - oh my! I just realized how far I’ve come. My journey reflects the challenges and transformations, especially significant for someone who doesn’t fit into the cisgender heterosexual white male denomination typically found in corporate spaces.

Early Career Challenges

I believe anyone working in a corporation, particularly if you're part of a minority, understands the need to repress certain aspects of their identity. As a gay man, this was especially true for me. Early in my career, I had to change pronouns and conceal parts of my life to fit in.

I vividly remember my first company holiday party where I referred to my partner using they/them pronouns to avoid revealing my sexual orientation. This constant suppression was exhausting and made me yearn for a space where I could be my authentic self.

Transition to Solopreneur

The decision to shift from an HRBP role to a solopreneur and consultant was both challenging and liberating. It gave me the freedom to define my path and express my identity openly. No longer constrained by corporate norms, I could focus on creating meaningful content and offering genuine advice.

Finding My Voice on TikTok

TikTok became the perfect platform for me to share my experiences and insights. It allowed me to reach a vast audience and build a community that values authenticity. By showcasing my true self, I could inspire others facing similar challenges.

Being a TikTok star isn’t just about the number of followers or viral videos; it’s about creating impactful and relatable content that resonates with people from diverse backgrounds. It’s about breaking down barriers and encouraging others to embrace their true identities.

Keywords

HR Business Partner (HRBP)
Solopreneur
Consultant
TikTok
Gay man
Corporate challenges
Identity suppression
Authenticity
Minority experiences
Community building

FAQ

Q1: What motivated you to move from an HRBP role to a solopreneur? A1: The primary motivation was the desire to be my authentic self and to create a space where I could express my identity without suppression. The flexibility and freedom of being a solopreneur and consultant allowed me to achieve this.

Q2: How did you find success on TikTok? A2: Success on TikTok came from sharing genuine experiences and insights that resonated with a diverse audience. Being authentic and relatable helped build a strong community and attract followers.

Q3: Why is it important to be authentic in your professional journey? A3: Authenticity is crucial as it allows you to build genuine connections and inspire others. Suppressing your true identity can be exhausting and detrimental to your mental well-being.

Q4: What challenges did you face as a minority in a corporate setting? A4: As a gay man, I faced the challenge of having to conceal my sexual orientation by changing pronouns and hiding aspects of my personal life to fit into the corporate environment.

Q5: How can others facing similar challenges find their voice? A5: Finding your voice involves seeking platforms where you can express yourself freely, surrounding yourself with supportive communities, and embracing your true identity without fear of judgment.