How I Landed Forbes 30 Under 30

And how you can too!

Lets talk about something that I had taped on my vision board last year: Forbes 30 Under 30.

If you’re reading this thinking, “That would never be me,” I am here to tell you that if I can do it, so can you. 

I am going to be breaking down exactly what I did to make the list and what YOU can implement in your life to become a future Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. 

Step 1: Pick Your Lane

Make it your goal to land the list, and figure out which category is right for you. Forbes has multiple 30 Under 30 lists across different industries like Social Media, Tech, Retail & E-commerce (hey, that’s me!!), Marketing, and more. Figure out which category it is that you want to be under, and pick it strategically. Think about where your biggest career milestones will stand out most. However, if you don’t have any big milestones yet, you need a clear vision board with specific ones, which leads me to our next step…

Step 2: Study The Greats 

Research past honorees of your category — I mean really research them. Have an understanding of what they did and try to replicate it. In my industry, past honorees sold their business, got on Shark Tank, landed a massive retailer, or they raised over $10M in funding. Once you find out what needs to be done, it's time to work backwards and achieve that.

Step 3: Build Your Network

There’s the old adage, “Nobody makes it alone,” and this is true, even for Forbes. Your network is very important to landing a spot on this list.  I highly recommend reaching out to other Forbes 30 Under 30 honorees, then, reaching out to prominent community members, big founders, and venture capitalists, whoever has a big name in your industry. Have conversations with these people, ask them questions, and tell them about your journey. 

Step 4 Get Your References: 

Having strong references is an indicator of credibility, and yes, Forbes does vet them!  Some of my references were David Barnett (Founder, and Former CEO of Popsocket), Mike Beckham (CEO of Simple Modern), a Director at the Small Business Development Center of Illinois, three former 30 Under 30 honorees, and some of my Shark Tank friends. A good reference is someone with Google-able achievements. You have to prove to Forbes 30 Under 30 that you are not only a high achiever in your field, but you are also a part of a circle of success.

Step 5: Nominations 

In order to make the list, you have to be nominated, and yes, you can nominate yourself (that’s exactly what I did — and it worked!). If you have the credentials, no need to wait for someone to choose you, go and put yourself out there! 

Final Thoughts: 

Remember, not every applicant makes it the first time. If it doesn’t happen for you this year, try again the next. In the meantime, set intentional goals, expand your network, and make meaningful connections. The real achievement here isn’t landing a list, it's about showing up for your dreams and your goals so clearly, boldly, and consistently that the rest of the world can’t help but take notice of you. 

You’ve got this. 

Your President, 

Charlotte Trecartin