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.
Content from our partners
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.
