Ruth E. Thaler-Carter, Freelance Writer/Editor, “I can write about anything!” ®, Owner, Communication Central and A Flair for Writing.
What led you to start working in digital/media publishing?
I had been writing, editing, proofreading and managing publication layout/production for several years and wanted to learn about evolving new technology to stay up to date and increase efficiency for my clients.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I spend from one to five hours on writing, editing, proofreading and layout/production of a variety of projects for clients, from articles to newsletters to websites to blog posts for businesses, magazines, associations, not-for-profit organizations and professional services entities such as lawyers. At least once a month, I present either a webinar or an in-person class on topics such as freelancing, editing, and proofreading, or websites for one of my professional associations or a local writers’ center.
What’s your work setup look like?
I don’t do apps, but I work on either an iMac desktop computer or MacBook Air laptop using Word, PowerPoint, InDesign, Photoshop, WordPress/Weebly/SquareSpace, depending on the project.
What do you do or go to get inspired?
Check my calendar to see what deadlines are coming up, play rock-n-roll or Motown music, look out the window (we’re in an apartment above the highway with a gorgeous view of trees for miles around), go for a walk.
What’s your favorite piece of writing or quote?
Musically, “Nothing from nothing leaves nothing; you gotta have something if you want to be with me” (Billy Preston). In terms of sayings, “What goes around comes around.” I’m a voracious reader and have never been able to choose just one favorite piece of writing.
What is the passionate problem you are tackling at the moment?
A challenging InDesign file that has more than two dozen fonts and lots of weird formatting. I may have to start fresh and create a new template since the one I’ve been given is such a mess.
Is there a product, solution or tool that you think is a good match for your digital publishing efforts?
InDesign and SquareSpace.
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Any advice for ambitious digital publishing and media professionals just starting out?
Learn the basics of typography and readability before trying to set up as a publisher and get some good training in essential tools like InDesign before trying to work on paying projects for clients or employers.