Without knowing their gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, skin tone, or religion, is this person qualified for your company?

Today we’re going to do an exercise in humanity and meritocracy.

Today we will ignore the government’s forced Diversity, Equity, Inclusion policies being forced on companies both big and small.

Today we will ignore the companies like certain big banks and corporate behemoths that have embraced physical “diversity” while completely squashing any free speech, free thought, and true diversity amongst its minions.

Today we will ignore that, as per a recent post brought to light by my friend Ashley, there are universities giving preferential treatment to potential students based on race, religion, gender, ethnicity, etcetera while dismissing merit-based criteria.

With those rules in mind, we’re going to look at an individual I know well who brings two decades and counting in the media and put their resume (without identifying features) for all to see.

What I want to know is which companies (or more importantly hiring managers) would give this person a real chance to work for them, or even hire them based on their experience and not identity politics.

Obviously, the role would need to be in journalism, multi-media, or communications – but almost every company has in-house roles like that now.

On to the (abridged) resume . . .

Skills

Journalism Writing Copy Editing Leadership Social Media Communications Project Management

Mentoring Team building Business Relationships Online Marketing News/data research Contract Negotiation

Career Experience (Abridged)

Marketing Publication:

• Developed story ideas and executed written content according to strategic goals of over 20 clients for six magazines annually.
• Cultivated dynamic skills in marketing and brand-specific writing through hands-on practice.
• Translated technical terminology and jargon into plain, clear language.
• Created plans and communicated deadlines to complete projects on time.
• Advised clients on best practice for using their brand voice in creatively crafted articles.
• Created informational copy and blog posts for *Marketing Publication* and over 20 of its business clients.
• Wrote and submitted accurate, engaging and fact-checked stories.
• Utilized social media outlets to connect directly with the public.
• Evaluated project requirements and content standards for each project to produce copy in line with creative structure.
• Partnered with media executives to produce compelling stories.
• Completed assigned pieces and developed independent stories.
• Created informational copy and blog posts for companies in landscaping, construction, tourism, and not-for-profit industries.
• Completed assigned pieces and developed independent stories
• Actively listened to customers’ requests, confirming full understanding before addressing concerns.
• Proved successful working within tight deadlines and fast-paced atmosphere.
• Used Microsoft Word and other software tools to create documents and other communications.
• Exceeded goals through effective task prioritization and great work ethic.
• Increased customer satisfaction by resolving issues.
• Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
• Participated in continuous improvement by generating suggestions, engaging in problem-solving activities to support teamwork.
• Disseminated news content through social media for better engagement with audiences and faster reporting.
• Increased brand visibility through networking at industry conferences, panels, workshops, developing professional connections.
• Enhanced readership by producing high-quality articles on various topics and adhering to strict deadlines.
• Collaborated with editors and other staff members to refine story angles and content.

Own Website:

• Created organization’s mission and vision statements.
• Restructured WordPress website as look and feel when direction changed.
• Creates written, audio and video content weekly.
• Writes over 150 eye-catching and innovative pieces annually.
• Assigns and edits content from contributors.
• Finds interesting stories, photo opportunities and podcast guests.
• Hosts Own Podcast on three outlets.
• Works with businesses to create promotional contests.
• Maintains and updates website and relevant social media accounts.
• Mentored two co-op students.
• Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
• Created and monitored promotional approaches to increase sales and profit levels.

Other Media Company:

• Researched and produced 5 to 10 weekly news reports throughout contract.
• Proofread copy written by colleagues to correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
• Coordinated with subject matter experts for interviews and topic generation.
• Brainstormed with freelance writers and station manager to determine new topics and stories.
• Interviewed individuals by phone, video chat and in person to write weekly stories.
• Produced weekly Opinion Editorials on topical matters.
• Organized material to research and complete writing tasks.
• Utilized exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills to produce engaging and error-free content.
• Followed company policies and editorial guidelines to craft thorough, well-written content.
• Mentored young freelance writers on journalism techniques, interviewing, and content writing.
• Established strong online presence by consistently sharing thought-provoking and well-written columns on social media platforms.
• Edited, proofread and fact-checked content for accuracy.
• Contributed to increased website traffic through timely and well-researched articles on trending topics.
• Responded to reader comments with professionalism and tact to avoid escalating concerns.

Not-For-Profit Organization:

• Created and implemented communications plan and strategies to increase awareness on *Environmental* Project and other science-based projects.
• Developed and maintained organization’s primary social media accounts (Facebook and Instagram).
• Organized photography and videos during 15 live events to promote *Organization* activities and increase awareness.
• Collaborated with board members, staff and volunteers both on site and virtually to ensure quality of communications.
• Created and distributed 20 press releases and other media related items.
• Helped on-site during live events to collect information from donors, distribute communications materials as well as setting up and taking down promotional areas.
• Increased volunteer participation through effective recruitment strategies and targeted marketing campaigns.

Freelance for Online Entity (one year):

• Wrote over 40 stories that featured SEO heavy content for several brand websites on topics such as Top 10 places to stay, top restaurants to visit, best attractions and more.

Online Media Freelance Writer/Editor:

• Utilized exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills to produce engaging and error-free content specific to *Website.*
• Organized material to research and complete writing tasks.
• Wrote and edited 3 to 5 high-quality stories weekly with exciting, captivating, and authentic approach.
• Completed thorough research into assigned topics.
• Wrote and proofread blog posts, website copy and articles.
• Interviewed individuals by phone and in person.
• Took photos at events and to accompany stories.
• Managed successful blog, consistently publishing fresh content create a loyal reader base.
• Repurposed and optimized existing content for use in different mediums.
• Edited and proofread drafts of articles and other documents.

Weekly and Monthly Publications:

• Monitored website and social media traffic.
• Took photos for weekly newspaper stories.
• Edited photos and did page layout for publication.
• Proofread publications before press time.
• Interviewed individuals by phone and in person to write between 5 to 10 stories for weekly newspaper.
• Maintained extensive network of contacts to consistently provide content.
• Performed research and checked facts to maintain a high standard of journalistic integrity.
• Pitched stories to editorial staff in content areas of news, sports and entertainment.
• Edited, proofread and fact-checked content for accuracy.
• Contributed to award-winning projects through exceptional teamwork and collaboration among journalists from different backgrounds.
• Streamlined news production processes by effectively managing deadlines and prioritizing assignments.

Freelance Writing:

• Generated ideas for new content series or formats based on audience interests and market trends.
• Wrote advertising material for use by publication, broadcast or internet media to promote sale of goods and services.
• Conducted interviews with subject matter experts to generate topics.
• Consulted with editors to shape stories and eliminate any errors.
• Interviewed individuals by phone and in-person to write news stories.
• Developed and pitched story ideas to editors.
• Edited and proofread drafts of articles and other documents.
• Wrote 10 to 15 pieces monthly on several topics.

Daily Newspaper:

• Wrote and edited communications within assigned beat areas.
• Generated ideas for new content series or formats based on audience interests.
• Organized material to research and complete writing tasks.
• Collaborated with editors to refine drafts, ensuring consistent tone and style across various platforms.
• Followed company policies and editorial guidelines to craft thorough, well-written content.
• Consulted with editors to shape stories and eliminate any errors.
• Collaborated with illustrators and photographers to enhance content.
• Created content for websites and online publications.
• Developed and pitched story ideas to editors.
• Built, established and maintained relationships with sources.
• Studied and commented on current news and trends.