WOMEN@WORK: ELYSE BUSH

Elyse Bush is the Marketing and Programs Manager at BU Spark! and a Boston College aluma. Elyse is also the founder of Justus, a platform that brings “transparency to employer diversity and inclusion through the reviews by members of affinity groups” for over a year now. 

Meet Elyse!

Harper: Hi Elyse, thank you for taking the time to chat with me today. Can you tell us about your job?

Elyse: I am the Founder of an employer review platform for underrepresented groups in the workplace called Justus! The mission of Justus is to make employer diversity and inclusion transparent. Write a review at www.joinjustus.com!

Harper: What would a productive day at the office look like?

Elyse: A productive day at the office, for me, is getting one step closer to achieving our mission through user reviews. One of the most important elements of the Justus platform is user reviews and each user that submits a review is a crucial step in achieving workplace inclusion.

Harper: What brings you the most joy at your work?

Elyse: Feedback. Although it sounds disingenuous, when people tell me what they like about the platform or our business model it makes me happy, and although constructive criticism does not always evoke the warm and fuzzies it ultimately brings me joy because it betters my business for my users, and it means that people are invested in the mission.

Harper: What do you think has been the most pivotal or most influential moment in getting you to where you are today? 

Elyse: For me, there wasn’t one isolated occurrence that led me to where I am today, but the recurrent theme in my success has been invaluable has been the support of my family and friends. My network of support has been instrumental to me as I assess where I am and where I want to be. As a founder, you’re often your only cheerleader, but with the support of my network it doesn’t feel like a solo venture.

Harper: What advice would you give to someone who is starting out in the work world for the first time?

Elyse: Take chances, be kind to your colleagues, trust yourself, and don’t settle for anything less than you deserve.

Harper: How you have found community post-college whether that be at work or outside of work?

Elyse: The innovation community in Boston is close knit and is a very supportive one. Introductions happen without you asking for them, something that I am very grateful for. Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends.

Harper: What has surprised you most about starting a job?

Elyse: You have to be your best advocate. Saying “no” in the workplace is hard, but it’s crucial to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Harper: What has inspired you most at your job?

Elyse: The drive and dedication of my colleagues.

Harper: What is your go to office wear?

Elyse: Jet black jeans, a colorful blouse, an oversized sweater, and boots.  

Thanks for meeting with us Elyse!