Over the last seven years, Hayley has compiled a successful track record of driving creative and interactive digital projects. As a project manager, she finds delight in making lists, communicating clearly, and helping clients achieve their goals. At her core, she’s an innovative problem-solver–one who loves to identify, examine, improve, and streamline complex processes. She also makes a mean Spotify playlist.
When not problem-solving, she enjoys sampling Portland’s diverse food scene, quilting, and taking too many photos of her dog.
Q&A w/ Hayley Johnson
Q: What is your favorite quote?
“Sometimes the best way to solve your own problems is to help someone else.”
– Uncle Iroh, Avatar The Last Airbender
Q: What inspired you to become a Project Manager
Becoming a project manager has been something of an evolution for me. Throughout my career, I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can utilize some of my favorite strengths and continuously grow. I’m a curious person who loves to collaborate, needs to organize, and wants to problem-solve. Project Management is a natural fit which has allowed me to tap into those skill sets. Plus, no two projects are exactly alike which means you’re always kept on your toes!
Q: What do you enjoy the most about being Project Manager at Solid Digital?
I love being part of a talented team where each member is passionate about what they do and the quality of their work. It makes projects run more smoothly and it’s FUN to work with people who are excited about what they do.
Q: As a Project Manager, What expertise do you bring to your clients?
When managing a project, I bring with me the tips, tricks, and lessons learned from the projects before. This knowledge helps me create better project plans and helps the whole team (client included) avoid potential pitfalls along the way.
Q: What is your approach to providing great customer service?
My approach to provide the best customer service possible is to clearly communicate (early + often), listen actively, and respond empathetically.
Q: What has been your favorite project you’ve worked on during your time at Solid Digital?
The ¡Salud! Virtual Winery Auction was one of my first projects at Solid Digital and one of my favorites so far. It posed some really unique challenges and had me thinking creatively at every step of the process! It also supported a great cause and provided an excuse to talk about wine with my team.
Q: Who is your tech or design inspiration?
Iris Apfel–her designs are bold and funky, and she always has fun no matter her age.
Q: What is your favorite museum?
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is my favorite museum (and luckily for me, it’s also local!).
Q: Your top 3 favorite Podcasts/Books?
Hard to pick favorites, but here are the top three that come to mind: Every Little Thing (podcast);Wuthering Heights, by Emily Brontë; The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien.>
Q: What is your favorite Solid Tradition?
The Solid Daily (a random question asked over Slack each day) has been an entertaining way to get to know the team and feel connected, despite a global pandemic and actual physical distance.
Q: What do you like on your pizza?
Extra cheese, pepperoni, black olives, pineapple, and a hot honey drizzle.
Q: What are some ways that technology has influenced your life?
Technology has allowed me to live in Portland and remain connected to my family and friends who live elsewhere. I have three sisters who all live in different states and yet I still get to communicate with them on an almost-daily basis. How cool is that?
Q: What is the 1 piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to have a career in your field?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions–be proactive with your communication! Doing so helps mitigate project risks, keeps expectations aligned, and steers the project towards success.
Q: What would you like to be known for?
I’d like to be known for my honesty, thoughtfulness, and sense of humor.
