Reprintable Interview Questions - Personal Life and Advice
(Related to Hilary's Internet Companies)
Do you have any brothers or sisters?
Yes, I have a brother named Simon who I'd do absolutely anything for. When we were kids we used to used to fight like cats and dogs but now we're best friends. He's a brilliant guy. He gives talks at aerospace conferences and he's always looking for ways to better the world.
What has been the most exciting part of having your own magazine, books and online portfolio company?
I love getting feedback from clients and readers. It's especially great when I get emails from people who have read my modeling ebooks (sold on NewFaces.com) and want to let me know how much it has helped them and how much closer they are to achieving their goals because of the e-book.
Do you meet many people in media?
I actually have quite a lot of friends in media. I've become good friends with the features editor of Town and Country - we go to dinner and swap stories. He tells me about the crazy press trips he gets sent on. He's gotten to race prototype race cars through southern France, and fly jets... he has so many great stories!
I met Helen Gurly Brown at an Oscars party in LA, and Tina Brown at the Talk Innovators and Navigators conference at Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara.
Do you have any mentors in Manhattan or elsewhere?
I do have a mentor - Richard Branson. We met in Toronto at the Spoke Club years ago and bonded instantly over the fact that we both started magazines when we were 15. He's an incredible man, very down to earth and always genuinely interested in what I'm up to. I really admire him and love spending time with him.
What advice would you give to other young entrepreneur's to turn their dream into a reality?
Don't get discouraged. Starting a successful business takes more work than you think but it's doable if you have the will and determination to keep pushing yourself until you've reached your goal. Oh--and make sure you have a viable business plan that fills a gap in the market or is an innovative approach. Think everything out thoroughally.
Any motivation tips for young people?
Just believe in your dreams. Believe that you can get there. Don't slack or party too much. It's okay to relax but instead of watching TV why not read a book in a park or by the fireplace and actually learn something? I never watch TV - it's such a time-waster! The other important advice I could give is never do drugs or cigarettes. Seriously. I've never tried them but I've seen a lot of people waste away because of them. Just stay away.
What impact does the media have on young girls?
I think the media can have a very negative effect on girls self image. The media portrays an ideal that doesn't exist without a makeup artist, stylist, lighting, photo touch-ups and often hours of exercise a day - not to mention hair extensions, false eyelashes and cosmetic surgery! How are girls going to be happy with themselves if they think they're expected to look like that in order to be attractive or sexy?
What makes you happy in life?
Spending time with my friends and my family makes me happy. When I was 25, I bought my parents a sailboat, and I love spending time together sailing when I visit them.
What advice can you give them to improve their self-esteem?
Don't compare yourself to the images in magazines. They're not real - they're fantasy. Concentrate on developing yourself as a person - learn things, take classes and read books, not superficial magazines. Get outside and don't wear makeup when you're not going out. You'll be surprised what a difference these things can make on your outlook on life.
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