Interview - Danielle Read
From Acquired Brain Injury Specialist to mind-bending independent copywriter, Danielle Read found herself freelancing almost by accident. It’s a beautiful thing though—as we’re pretty certain this wordsmith has stumbled upon her true calling.
Tell us how you ended up here as a freelancer? Where did it all begin?
I didn’t know what I wanted to *be* when I grew up. But I was 25 and I did know I didn’t like my high-pressure job. So I said ‘ta-ta’ and set out to be an Uber driver while I figured it out. I’d always loved writing and thought I’d take a gamble on making that my job in 2017. Turns out it was worth risking the bikkie. #knowshowtoholdem
What was your last ‘real’ job?
Acquired Brain Injury Specialist (but my first job was in a Pet Shop which sounds much cooler).
What inspired you to start freelancing? Was there a ‘moment’ that made you realise it was time?
It was kind of an accident I guess? I began a business course through NEIS to keep learning while Ubering and simultaneously decided to start a copywriting business. In the first couple of years, I was moving towards building an agency, hiring contractors and looking at office spaces. Before realising that wasn’t what I really wanted! I just wanted to be a freelancer and that was okay too.
How did you prepare to start working for yourself?
I bought a desk for $5 from a real estate agent moving offices and picked up a free office chair from Gumtree.
In three emojis, describe your life as a freelancer…
🕺🏻🔮😻
Walk us through a typical workday?
Morning: Clock on at 8, admin until 9… Get cracking on brand voice guides, website copy, SEO research, blog writing, email series strategising and/or patting cats every 5 mins.
Afternoon: Something tasty at 12, back at my desk (YES, still the one from the real estate!) at 1230. Client meetings, continue wordy stuff, forget to drink enough water, Instagram voice notes, tackle the wild inbox.
Evening: I clock off by 5 and *poof!* turn back into a real boy.
How as COVID-19 impacted your everyday life?
I strangely feel more connected to many people. Online meetings, coworking and chats work for me!
Name three qualities you need to succeed as a freelancer?
Self-motivated
Conscientious
Lone wolf tendencies
I know we’re not supposed to have favourites, but can you share a favourite client project of yours?
I honestly CANNOT choose a favourite haha… But here’s my latest published About Page.
Best thing about freelancing?
All-day cat pats!
Suckiest thing about freelancing?
Always having to ask about powerpoints in cafes like some type of electricity hound.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out on their freelancer journey?
Set a routine and take time to enjoy perks like ‘sometimes longer’ lunch breaks, Friday early knock-offs and a day off here and there, when you need it.
What’s next for you in business?
A little tweeter tells me there could be some workshops in the works…