Reflecting on my first byline brings back fond memories. It was for a small-town North Carolina newspaper, discussing teen trends, and it paid $10 a week. I’ve kept a dollar from that first payment, framed as a tribute to my modest start.
Initially, I aspired to top magazine mastheads, but soon realized I wanted to forge my own path in the media landscape. Now, my career, a mix of journalism and content strategy through my consultancy, is humorously dubbed an ’empire’ by friends. Embracing this success, I recall the hard work and resilience it took to become a self-made leader.
In our latest feature for Women’s History Month, we acknowledge the gender disparities in media but also celebrate the formidable women carving their own niches. Their journeys, marked by hustle and strategic moves, have led them to establish their own empires.
Here, we share empowering advice from these trailblazers, aimed at helping you craft the career of your dreams:
Rachel Sobel: Embrace Your Uniqueness Rachel Sobel transitioned from public relations to freelance writing, focusing on motherhood. She advises finding a unique angle and audience, emphasizing the power of honest, relatable content. Sobel’s work, which includes contributions to various online platforms, resonates with many due to its authenticity and relatability.
Locke Hughes: The Power of Networking Locke Hughes, a freelance journalist and health coach, underscores the importance of networking. Her journey from university publications to a dream job in New York highlights the value of connections. Hughes, now contributing to numerous prestigious publications, advises aspiring writers to network and consider stints in major cities.
Caitlin Collins: Dedication to the Craft Caitlin Collins, a content strategist and writer, stresses the importance of continuous writing. Her journey from advertorial to freelance journalism showcases the need to adapt and embrace various writing forms. Collins encourages writers to persist, regardless of the changing nature of writing platforms.
Cathy Cassata: Patience and Persistence Cathy Cassata, a freelance health writer, began her journey with poetry. Her career, now spanning various publications, was built on patience and persistence. Cassata advises writers to embrace diverse opportunities, understanding that each step contributes to long-term success.
Jane Coloccia: Adaptability and Self-Worth Jane Coloccia’s career evolved from editorial work to public relations. She highlights the need for flexibility and recognizing market trends. Coloccia’s diverse portfolio, including marketing communications and editorial assignments, demonstrates the importance of adapting skills and understanding one’s value in the industry.
These women’s experiences and insights offer a blueprint for building a successful freelance career. Their stories of determination, adaptability, and self-empowerment serve as a guide and inspiration for aspiring writers.