Author:  Nicole Fallon, Muck Ruck Daily

The biggest improvement in my writing skills happened when I became an editor.

Writers are often too familiar with their own ideas to spot mistakes and poor phrasing in their work. When you’re reading someone else’s writing, though, it becomes easier to see points that need clarity and sentences that can be worded better.

Entrepreneur contributor Shaun Buck reminds us that people have an “infinite number of options” for media consumption, and if they get bored with your piece, they’ll simply find another article to read. It’s critical to capture and keep readers’ attention up front with concise, to-the-point ideas; long-winded narratives will only drive them away.

This is especially true in press releases, which reporters will delete if it take too long to read them (Jessica Lawlorrecommends 300-500 words maximum).

As a professional copy editor, I read and review dozens of articles every week, and I’ve noticed some common clunky and/or extraneous phrases that even the most talented writers occasionally fall back on.

Whether you’re writing as yourself or ghostwriting for a client, do a quick self-edit and see if you’ve slipped any of these “fillers” into your piece.

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As we all know, content these days is more digital and interactive. When it comes to your resume, the same shareable content rules apply.

My resume is visible on my site, but instead of stagnate words on a page, I decided to hyperlink my accomplishments and experiences to relevant articles (or actual earned media placements), videos and social media posts.

This tactic is quick, easy and allows readers of your resume to interact with your wonderful professional experiences. I really believe our resumes, cover letters and professional websites should flow like a story (thank you Forbes Magazine). We want people to enjoy reading about our journey through work and life.  Note: Don’t forget to periodically check your links to ensure they work.

I love Frida Kahlo! Check out this quick video detailing how her life and style influenced her art. Enjoy!

Check out the trailer to the film and learn more about how Porch Stories came to fruition.

How did Porch Stories come to be?

Check it out! The official ZIN website… http://the1likezin.com

There you can access his music, read about his work, watch videos and stay abreast of upcoming projects scheduled for release this year.

Peace! I am so excited to announce ZIN’s new book, Status Quo: 52 weeks of affirmations.  Please read the foreword below. Thanks so much for your love and support!

Status Quo: 52 weeks of affirmations Foreword…
ZIN always strived to make ALL people feel important and valued. He was very active on social media, especially Facebook. Oftentimes, his posts were affirming messages to family and friends and his ‘status quo’ was to empower and encourage people to do great things. Status Quo: 52 weeks of affirmations, is a compilation of ZIN’s most positive and uplifting Facebook status updates. When used for good, social media definitely has the power to inspire, educate and yes, affirm… #ZinMemorialProject

Thanks to the Houston Chronicle for the lovely article.

Katherine Johnson was 90 on Tuesday, an apt date because it also was National Equality Day.  Not that she ever thought she wasn’t equal.

“I didn’t have time for that,” said Johnson in her Hampton home. “My dad taught us ‘you are as good as anybody in this town, but you’re no better.’ I don’t have a feeling of inferiority. Never had. I’m as good as anybody, but no better.”

But probably a lot smarter. She was a “computer” at Langley Research Center “when the computer wore a skirt,” said Johnson. More important, she was living out her life’s goal, though, when it became her goal, she wasn’t sure what it involved. Read More

Source: Jim Hodges – NASA Langley

Guess what people? Traditional media pitches are still relevant and actually preferred. When it comes to reporters, it don’t go down in the DM. Read more

Source: What’s the state of media – Maria Materise

Shanelle Matthews, lead communications strategist for Black Lives Matter, tells Dipka Bhambhani about driving conversations from the ‘hood to the White House. Read more

Source: PR Week