About two years ago, I got the feeling that I needed a change. I needed to do something that scared me.<\/p>\n
After nearly 13 years in a corporate job doing employee communications for a large hospital system, I decided to take the leap. I became a freelance writer.<\/p>\n
I started ramping up my online presence, starting with my LinkedIn profile. I updated my resume, work experience and sharpened my personal statement.<\/p>\n
I figured I should specifically mention the major projects I led, the special skills I acquired (graphic design and photography in addition to writing) and any leadership responsibilities I had.<\/p>\n
Showing that I had well-rounded experience would set me apart from someone else vying for the same job. I also wanted to make sure my personality came through and that my profile wasn\u2019t boring. Plus, showing my skillset to its best advantage highlighted that I\u2019m a one-stop communications shop.<\/p>\n
No sooner than I made my updates, a recruiter reached out. She was from a firm that placed creatives with clients who needed long- or short-term help.<\/p>\n
It seemed I was off to a good start.<\/p>\n
She set up an interview with the client, we met, and it was agreed: I\u2019d begin the following week billing at a pre-determined hourly rate worked out between the client and the agency.<\/p>\n
While having steady clients in my pocket was great, freelancing isn\u2019t always steady and work ebbs and flows. I still wanted to add to my client list. Luckily, I was about to get a break.<\/p>\n
Through my network on LinkedIn, a someone connected to a person I worked with in my corporate life reached out to me. This person was a total stranger who had a new, online publication that highlighted local businesses. He wanted to know if I\u2019d be interested in submitting my resume and clips to be considered for a writing job.<\/p>\n
In the short time I\u2019ve been freelancing, I\u2019ve learned one very important thing: keep an open mind.<\/p>\n
I sent him my info and waited (another talent I learned freelancing).<\/p>\n
A few days later, I heard back. He wasn\u2019t interested. I didn\u2019t have enough multi-source reporting experience. That was the third rejection I received that day.<\/p>\n
However, I wasn\u2019t about to give up. I took on another client, a magazine, which was my first venture out of corporate communications and into journalism. Things were good.<\/p>\n
Five months later, I decided to give it another go and see if the magazine clips would help me persuade the multi-source reporting editor to give me a shot. So, I sent him an email:<\/p>\n
Hi Guy,<\/p>\n
A few months ago, I applied for a freelance position at Local Business News. Since then, I’ve published more material and hope it meets your expectations.<\/p>\n
Here is the latest issue of\u00a0Macomb Now Magazine<\/a>. I have three articles: a profile on a start-up skincare business, a man who grows lilies and how to improve your summer garden, and the Making a Difference section featuring the Macomb County food truck.<\/p>\n
As a life-long Eastsider, I can help you expand your reach into Macomb and Wayne counties. Some ideas I have for you include:<\/p>\n
-The Whistle Stop Hobby and Toy Shop: As independent toy stores fade away, the Whistle Stop has been a St. Clair Shores staple for years. Family owned and operated since 1969.<\/p>\n
-Wally’s Frozen Custard: Owned by Matt Ahern and his wife, the custard shop on Harper is known for it’s firetruck that makes appearances at local events.<\/p>\n
The Eastside is also home to the original Nino Salvaggio’s, the original Tubby’s Sub Shoppe and Morning Glory Bakery in Grosse Pointe.<\/p>\n
Please let me know if any of these ideas sound interesting. If you’d like to do a trial run, I’m open to that, too.<\/p>\n