The pandemic brought massive shifts (We don’t need to say that twice!). For Idalia Espinoza, one of ICUCs rockstar Content Specialists, a year of staying at home was quite literal – her first home purchase came in 2020, and so did her 6-year anniversary at ICUC. Connecting through technology is a key aspect of ICUC’s business model as a fully remote organization, but for Idalia, a year + in isolation showed her just how important her digital connections are – with both colleagues and clients – and how moving forward, building stronger and longer-lasting relationships is her #1 priority (even if across the globe!). Let’s dive in!
What’s your role and what do you do every day?
I’m basically the filter between everything that comes into the brand profiles and the client. We as a team take care of every comment and engagement and direct them into the right channel – whether it’s a positive comment, negative review, or even a legal threat, and filter them into categories we can analyze and digest for our clients. The process varies from brand to brand – some have niche necessities and others are general. We are simultaneously taking care of the brand and the user by filtering out inappropriate or harmful messaging as well.
How did you first learn about ICUC?
I had a friend that worked with the company (We were roommates at the time). I had just lost my job and had some experience in social media, and I applied and here I am, almost 6 years later. It’s really impacted my life in a good way.
What do you like most about your job?
I get to work from home! In general, that aspect is so convenient. In the beginning, there was some adjustment, but after 6 years I don’t see myself going back to an office (it would be hard at least). Random stuff like being around my pets is great, too. Even though it’s remote, I also can work with people from all over the world and build relationships with them. I’ve built some strong friendships within the company.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I like yoga and singing (opera, specifically). I used to study music properly but stopped a few years ago. Hanging with my pets and camping. Of course, the pandemic has shifted a lot of these activities.
I got a house in the middle of the pandemic so I’m focusing on that – furnishing and building my own space. The pandemic made it so clear to me that I needed my own space. I’m also building more quality connections and relationships.
If you could give your younger self some career advice, what would you say?
I would tell her not to worry so much. Don’t be so rigid and just trust that things will find a way, in the sense that a career can change so much over the years; it doesn’t have to be exactly what we expected or what we planned (and most times, it won’t be what we planned). This doesn’t mean that it’s going wrong, it just means it turned out different. So, be open to unexpected shifts – it can be more rewarding than you think.
Three words to best describe you?
Driven. Analytical. Helpful.
What is the best place you’ve traveled to, and why?
Oh wow, there are so many! I would say Switzerland because it’s beautiful. It’s like living in a postcard. You know, it’s just gorgeous. They have one of the best qualities of life in the world.
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