Claire Redden
Q What do you do?
“I combine my media experience with my passion for storytelling to produce journalism through modern mediums.”
Whether it be Instagram captions, website content, or articles, I use words to capture peoples' attention and tell a story.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
First I got let go from my first post-grad position as a digital marketing manager, and then I let go of the idea of writing content that didn't fuel my creative fire. I've been a freelance writer for two years now, and since then I've had the opportunity to write about topics surrounding culture, travel, mental health, sustainable technology, and business, and to tell the life stories of interesting people around the world.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
My experience in broadcasting, social media, and digital journalism make me a triple threat!
Q What are you working on right now?
Currently, I write profile stories for a publishing company in Chicago that focuses on amplifying the voices of successful women and Latinos in America.
Q What’s your style?
Lifestyle journalism that reflects real-life— I focus on diverse stories that represent the many rich cultures of the world.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
The design side of editorial, specifically creating websites for digital publications and the images for my stories.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Networking—I know! This should come easily with the internet, but it's a huge reason why I'm so excited to join ilovecreatives.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
That’s a tough question, because my writing process is very personal to me. For the sake of my mental health though, I'd definitely pay someone to scan the internet and social media for potential stories and expert opinions. That'd definitely reduce my screen time!
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
To be yourself— the earlier the better. While I value my experience in digital marketing, and it taught me some useful skills, it also wasn't my passion or even something I was curious about. I did it because it was a job that paid money and my family could understand.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Navigating the editorial world! Where do I begin, who do I talk to, how can I succeed in a way that’s true to my purpose?
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I'm really looking to expand my portfolio, and write for a range of lifestyle publications covering food, culture, travel, and, my personal favorite, profiles!
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client would be one that values collaboration. My favorite part about what I do is that not only am I able to pitch articles that highlight my personal voice, but I also get to work closely with editors to create content that is unique to their brand.
Q: What is your rate?
20 cents per word, or $20 per hour
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Email me, introduce yourself and tell me how my skills and interests align with yours.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
My bff/stylist/fashion designer @friendlybitchh
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Always participating in the conversation, and knowing when to hand the mic to someone else.
This member profile was originally published in February 2022.