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View previous CSTW Activities.Learning from the Writing Pros
Freelancing demands networking and Web writing requires exactness. These were among the lessons learning from the "Exploring Professional Writing" panelists on Thursday, May 28.
Professional writing students in the Writing in Organizations class (HUM COL 450.02) hosted the event, which featured four guests: Alice Duncanson, development writer and editor at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI); Alicia Kelso, editor of The Publishing Group Ltd.; Kelly Kinzer Malone, vice president of media and content at Real Living, Inc.; and Dan Willis, marketing consultant for First Class Events. Student Ashley McAtee moderated the symposium.
Duncanson defined nonprofit writing as mission-centered communication, noting that writers give "voice to the organization" and play a "forward thinking role." She emphasized that writers working at nonprofits need to be flexible, especially since most nonprofits run on a shoestring budget and lack adequate staff. Developing strong interpersonal skills will serve aspiring nonprofit writers well, Duncanson said, as writers often serve as a liaison between administrators and program directors.
Malone discussed ghost writing, stressing that writers need to know the style and tone of the person they are representing as well as the medium in which they are writing, which can range from articles and magazine columns to thank you notes, blogs, and letters of recommendation.
Willis talked about freelancing, drawing on his experience in the public sector to emphasize the importance of understanding the big picture. He underscored that writers need to be aware of three factors: the person they are representing, the audience, and how their own writing skills can produce a dynamic presentation. Willis encouraged aspiring professional writers to seek out freelance work. "Always look for opportunities," he said. "If you can write on behalf of somebody else, that’s a great gift."
Kelso spoke about writing for the Web, emphasizing the importance of learning RSS feeds and blogging, as well as Web sites such as Facebook and Twitter. In spite of technological advances, she noted that strong writing skills and accuracy are essential components of all professional writing.
A question-and-answer session gave students a chance to ask professionals about the worlds of work. Each writer had advice for aspiring professional writers. Duncanson emphasized that students should seek out internships and freelance work, which could lead to contract or full-time employment. Kelso recommended that students focus on building their portfolios, and also to be patient and "coachable." Malone advised students to reach out to advisors and teachers. "Go for what you’re passionate about," she said. Willis emphasized that students should connect with people as much as they can and always ask the question, "Do you know of anyone who can use my skills to get me started?"
McAtee summed up what she and her classmates gained from the program: "... [T]he biggest impact, for me was the way being in a room with writing professionals made me feel like my career goals are realistic ..., and it is much clearer to me now that professional writing is a rich, multidimensional field."
The Minor in Professional Writing allows students in any major to add writing credentials to their résumés and offers a one-quarter internship at a business or organization.
