Title: Communications Coordinator & Freelance Writer
Location: Lansing, MI
I’m completing my Bachelors in Journalism at the University of Canberra, Australia. I transferred from my Urban Planning degree knowing that writing was truly my passion. I’ve worked as a freelance writer for a little over three years, with BMA Magazine, NOISE, and most recently Capital Gains Media. I am also currently working as Communications Coordinator for the American Cancer Society.
Tell us about your current job.
I’m a Communications Coordinator by day, and a freelance writer by night. I know what you’re thinking, and you’re wrong. I still have a life!
What does a typical day look like for you?
My work day starts at 8:30 a.m. which provides just enough time for a quick coffee stop. Once I’m in the office, I usually sift through my e-mail inbox and respond to any urgent messages. Depending on the day, I’ll either be spending the rest of day researching and preparing for articles for our monthly newsletter, covering cancer-related topics/news, or editing articles that have been submitted into our weekly database. A few other things thrown into my work day mix: phone interviews for articles, conference calls, and the occasional meeting.
Having just returned to the freelance world, my work day can extend beyond 5:00 p.m. with interviews scheduled after work or during lunch, and researching and preparing for articles in my own time.
And yes, I still contend that I have a life outside of my profession.
What kinds of documents do you produce?
For the American Cancer Society, I write feature/informative style articles for the Great Lakes Division’s monthly newsletter, Voices. I also write and edit for our weekly staff newsletter called Soundbites.
As a freelancer for Capital Gains, a web-based magazine, I write entertainment/feature articles. I enjoy feature writing. It gives me ample space to be creative.
What communication skills are needed for your job?
For both my positions, but especially as a freelancer, you have to have the ability to create an article with minimal guidance. You also need to research your topics extensively, and aim to write with the reader in mind.
How did you prepare for your job?
Other than my educational background, I also made a point to get out there and start writing/having my work published. It solidifies your ability and credibility as a writer.
As for applying for my position with the American Cancer Society, I made sure I researched the mission and goals of the organization, studied the job description, and had friends put me through mock interviews so I was prepared for the questions that would be asked. Research is very important when you’re applying for a job. You need to know who you will be working for, what they value, and what they’re looking for in an employee.
List three of your favorite professional resources/references/tools and tell us why they’re your favorite.
Well, being that I’m writing about cancer-related topics, I love www.cancer.org. It provides me with the up-to-date cancer information I need to correctly inform the people I’m writing for.
Professionally and personally…I am addicted to Google. It’s my go-to place for any looming question in the back of my mind. My online confirmation of fact. I also love the Google reader application where I can access my favorite blogs and news sites all in the one place.
Call me old fashioned, but libraries are a great reference tool. You can still access all the above mentioned online tools while getting the silence and ambiance needed for ample productivity.
How do you stay up-to-date in your field?
As a journalist I think it’s important to be on top of things that are going on locally and globally, so I read. I also think it’s important to write every day in order to keep improving your skill and ability. Other than that, I have considered joining writer’s associations to attain contacts and know what other writers are doing to stay up-to-date. But simply put, I like to know what’s going on and I like to write so I don’t forget how to!
How would you define professional writing?
Being able to provide others with accurate, up-to-date information, while producing a piece of work that will keep them interested and entertained.
First and foremost, don’t be afraid to take chances. Apply for a job you think you might not be ready for, move to a different state (or country!), or ask for that promotion. You’d be amazed at what you’re capable of doing after those big leaps. Also, be sure to have fun, whatever it is you decide to do professionally.No matter what your profession, keep reading. Even if it is just for pleasure. I’d also encourage people to stay informed with what’s going on in the world outside of their own. It gives you a fresh perspective and an open mind, two very important things to have as a person.
Also, try to keep improving at what it is you do, by doing it as often as you can. A tip for writers: be sure to get out there and get something published. I already mentioned the importance of it earlier…but it really does help you professionally.
Tags: In the Workplace