Main Responsibilities of an Independent Writer and Editor as a Freelancer
Kathryn's main responsibilities involve editing a health magazine for the Monterey Herald as an independent contractor, a role which includes "generating story ideas, assigning writers, making sure there's photos," and working with graphic artists—a significant shift from traditional print methods to a fully online workflow. Additionally, Kathryn freelances for *Edible Monterey Bay*, a local food magazine, while seeking to add another freelance gig to maintain flexibility as Kathryn approaches retirement, stating "I'm kind of at a point in my career where I'm actually sort of slowing things down a little bit."
Freelance Writing, Editing, Magazine Publishing, Content Creation, Remote Work
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Kathryn McKenzie (Kathy to my friends)
Independent writer/editor
Self-Employed
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
No graduate programs
Creative Writing, Journalism
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Creative
Honors Student
Video Highlights
1. As a freelance editor and writer, Kathryn manages multiple projects simultaneously, demonstrating strong organizational and time management skills.
2. She collaborates with various professionals, including writers, graphic artists, and publishers, highlighting the importance of teamwork and communication in this field.
3. Kathryn's experience with both print and online publishing showcases adaptability and proficiency in diverse media platforms, a valuable skill in today's dynamic media landscape.
Transcript
What are your main responsibilities within your current role?
As a freelancer, my main responsibility is getting the right content out on time. Currently, I'm doing two main things.
I edit a health magazine for the Monterey Herald, where I used to be employed. I now do this as an independent contractor. It's a monthly glossy magazine inserted into the newspaper.
I enjoy this role because I get to run the whole show. I edit, set up photo assignments, and look for other available photos. I also work with four writers who contribute content.
My month involves generating story ideas, assigning articles, ensuring photos accompany the stories, and working with graphic artists for layout. Everything is done online, and most of the team, like me, works from home as independent contractors.
This is a big change from when I was learning about editing, as it used to involve physically cutting and pasting. Now, it's all online, and I receive pages digitally. I don't often meet the rest of the team, which is a different experience, but I'm used to it now.
The other freelance work I do is writing for a local food magazine called Edible Monterey Bay. The editor and publisher is a friend who wants me involved, so she frequently gives me assignments. This is a fun aspect of my work.
I'm at a point in my career where I'm slowing down a bit. I'll be 65 in November and am looking for more flexibility to travel and do other things, though I'm not retiring. I'm hoping to add another regular freelance gig, possibly a trade magazine for eye professionals.
But what I'm doing now suits my interests and needs perfectly. It's working out well.
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