Meet A. Sebastien | HRIS Professional & Career Solutionist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alicia Sebastien and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alicia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my business to help those who have been impacted by job loss and/or considering job transition as their interests and passions change. I was impacted by layoffs from the oil and gas sector in August 2019 and also by a contract change in November of 2022 within the cryptocurrency industry. Therefore, I understood what was necessary on how to navigate a competitive job market along with how to switch careers fully leveraging my skillset and ability to market myself. I wanted my legacy to include helping others reach their full potential and improve their quality of life. I created my own self help guide e-book titled; Better Never Bitter: A Self-Help Guide to Job Loss and Transition. As well as, my coaching business in 2024 to share with others relatable and tangible tactics that assist in your job search journey which has allowed me to obtain employment and remain marketable in an ever-changing world.

My e-book and services can be accessed via my website provided.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a HRIS (Human Resource Information Specialist) for a retail risk management and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. In addition to, being a Transition Career Consultant for LHH (Lee Hect Harrison) a global HR solutions organization which offers career transition programs for those impacted by layoffs. Coincidentally, this became a full circle moment as my former employer who I was impacted by layoffs utilized this company for their services. This became a full circle moment for me to show that there is hope on the other side which developed the idea for my business, Better Never Bitter, as we are better and never bitter about the experiences of life. Challenging circumstances happen “for us” and not “to us” which helps us get through this moment in time. Hardships are temporary but our mindsets dictate how long we remain with the drive to move forward.

I want to be living proof that you can have full time career with a business and not have to “choose” as life requires balance and discipline.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The beauty of Houston and surrounding areas offers a variety of experiences for everyone. However, I would introduce my guest to the different cuisines the city has to offer at The Post which has various options to choose from. It also has a great scenic view of the city from the rooftop (weather permitting). I would then swing over to Discovery Green and let them see the preserved green space for outdoor entertainment and activities for some additional fresh air.

Before a night out on the town, I would make reservations to Taste Bar and Kitchen. Then, consider Main Street for the lively bars (Off the Record) with the added benefit of accessibility to walk to everything versus driving to each location.

Depending on the time of year, we would plan to go to Miller Outdoor theatre for live performances and also have a bite to eat at one of the neighboring museum district restaurants; Granger’s. Then, take in the picturesque views of Hermann Park; including the botanic garden.

For a spin on movie going; we would enjoy a screening at the rooftop cinema and grab some food at one of our many dining halls; Finn.

If my guest is interested in sports; we could plan on attending a game for the in person spirit of Houston fans; especially our beloved Astros!

We would of course have to take advantage of a food park set-up which would include Axelrad or Truck Yard.

No trip would be complete without a trip to Trill Burger, Triple J’s Smokehouse, and Dona Leti’s.

A trip to Galveston sometime during their stay is a great getaway to visit the strand and seawall. Perhaps grab a bite to eat from one of the best rated food spots near the beach for great view of the water and cruise ships.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to thank my parents who have been extremely supportive through my career and personal interest. They are the root to my excellence and persistence in achieving my dreams. I am loved and love them dearly.

I would also like to thank Qiana Lorings, my former director who provided me my first HR position and allowed me to show up as my true authentic self while providing the necessary mentorship to become a well-rounded professional.

More importantly, I appreciate my community of friends and family, especially Rita Hunter, who made this introduction; and everyone who has consistently showed their love and support throughout this continuous and sporadic journey.

Website: https://betterneverbitter.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betternvrbitter/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-sebastien/

Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@betternvrbitter

Image Credits
Professional Photos (uploaded as additional pictures 2 &3 and also for personal photo): @peoplespaparazzii on IG