Shayla Nelson Music

How is digital media changing traditional broadcasting? It’s something you have to constantly work towards- and almost everyone in the world uses it daily. The chances that someone has of clicking on a video or picture of you is slim-unless you really promote yourself. Nowadays, a lot of individuals get lucky with posting one video that goes “viral.” But if you want to keep up and make your presence known, you have to spend time engaging with your audience.

What trends are shaping the future of content creation? The first thing that comes to mind is contributing to short-form content trends- they-re usually short lived, so you have to jump on it if you want a chance at getting that viral moment. I think the most important trend is just being yourself. In a world of AI prevalence and false news, people just want to see someone that is honest and straightforward.

How do you stay relevant in a constantly evolving media landscape? Similar to the last prompt, I just focus on being authentically myself in every situation I find myself online while keeping up with latest trends. I try to do my own spin on some trends, and they seem to do well most of the time, but I think it’s also important that I show other things about myself that make me stand out. Someone with a theatre background, performing as a profession and life passion, who loves to paint and craft- all different attributes that filters out the right audience for my content.

What role does audience feedback play in your programming? I personally do not get offended easily. When I receive a piece of feedback or critique, I process the information and immediately apply the changes. I have to be adaptable in those kind of environments, and that was one of my biggest takeaways from studying theatre throughout my life, but especially in college. Another vital thing to remember is: In this industry, you’re going to face rejection, guaranteed. It is best to take it with a grain of salt. Assess what you could’ve done better in that situation, identify your mistakes with that specific audience, and be ready for the next opportunity.

How are you integrating new platforms like streaming or podcasts? I sometimes like to go live on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and constantly promote my music on streaming platforms through those forms of social media. It gives my followers a chance to see what I am capable of outside of what they see in pictures/videos I post.

What’s your approach to maintaining journalistic integrity? I could preach this all day long, I know I’ve said it many times already. As long as you’re honest and yourself, and not scam people into thinking the person you put online is different than who you are in real life, I say you’re golden. People appreciate honesty and look to it in times when they can’t find it anywhere else.

What advice would you give to aspiring media professionals? The digital world we are in right now can be intimidating, but don’t give up. There’s been many times where I get overwhelmed with social media and just need a break. It is important to take breaks every once in a while. However, if you are trying to build yourself up and market your brand, you have to keep trying, and once you get your audience and the analytics are showing positively, maintain that.