I got into writing because I didn’t think I was a numbers person. I was wrong.
Give me survey data, a government report, a 10Q or monthly unemployment figures and I’m a happy camper.
I’ve put my love of words and numbers to use as a data-based business reporter. That’s led me to cover topics such as employment, HR and HR technology, business and transportation, and other data-intensive subjects. I balance it with writing about the softer side of business, exploring workplace issues, gender equity, productivity, negotiating, and what it takes to make it as a freelancer or independent contractor.
My business writing background also led me to ghostwrite for individuals and organizations on multiple topics and in multiple formats, from blog posts to books.
More recently, I’ve drawn from my tenure as a self-employed writer of more than 10 years to coach other writers of all experience levels how to launch and sustain a profitable, fulfilling freelance business. Find my #FreelanceTip of the day Monday-Friday on Twitter. See more advice on writing and running a freelance business on my blog.
I also speak often about writing and the business of freelancing. I’m a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors, Author’s Guild, Society of American Business Editors and Writers, and American Society of Business Publication Editors.
I grew up in Portland when timber was a booming local industry, not the city’s favorite professional sports team. I came back in the early 2000s with a husband and three kids in tow. Today, when I’m not working, you can find me on one of the many trails winding through the hills of SW Portland with our wire fox terrier Juniper in tow, at yoga, whipping up something tasty in the kitchen, or on the couch with a book (but more likely taking a nap).
Want to connect? Find me here:
Email: wordcountfreelance@gmail.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/michellerafter
Twitter: @michellerafter
Pinterest: MichelleRafter