Profile photo of Debra B. McCraw

Debra B.

Average rate
$60/hour
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  • Featured
  • Payable
  • Joined July 2015

Writer/editor specializing in B2B and B2C communications, offering top-notch customer service and high-quality copy.

  • Chicago, IL, United States
Profile photo of Debra B. McCraw
Debra B.
Chicago, IL, United States
Hire Invite to job

Worked with

Services

Categories

Copywriting Email Content Social Media Public Relations

Experience

Summary

As a communications consultant, I help clients craft clear, concise, on-point messaging that informs people about their organization and attracts new customers. Specialties include web content, marketing materials, trade journalism and financial reports.

CloudPeep clients

Nordic Business Forum
Nordic Business Forum 2017 / Executive Summary
Aug 2017 to Aug 2018
Nordic Business Forum
Writing summaries on business conference keynotes
Sep 2016 to Feb 2018

Work history

Goodwill Industries International
Online Communications Specialist
I managed Goodwill's daily online newsletter, writing, editing and posting up to five news briefs every day to inform the organization's employees about worldwide activities, legislation changes and available resources.
Corporate Executive Board
Senior Publications Editor
I led a four-person editorial team in perfecting the content of business research publications, web content, marketing materials, financial reports and more. I also managed our in-house style and coached writers locally and in India.
Thomson-Reuters
Editor
I managed the publication of a biweekly newsletter for payroll professionals, editing and preparing it for publication as well as contributing articles. I also edited legal research materials under the guidance of attorney editors.
LinkedIn
Independent Contractor - Writer
I interviewed LinkedIn Recruiter customers and wrote case studies about their experiences and tips and tricks from 2010-13. I attended LinkedIn's Talent Connect conference twice to cover sessions for its Talent blog and interview customers on camera.
National Association of Manufacturers
Independent Contractor - Editor
Since 2013, I have assisted the NAM communications team by editing press releases, Congressional testimonies, marketing collateral, member communication, journal articles and newsletters, such as its Monday Economic Report.
Goodwill Industries International
Independent Contractor - Writer, Editor, Trainer
Since 2009, I have worn a number of hats for Goodwill. I edit PR and marketing materials, conference journals, financial reports and more. I write for its internal and external blogs. I teach writing to participants of the Senior Leader Program.
Queen Bee School District 16 (Glendale Heights, IL)
Independent Contractor - Desktop Publishing
Since 2013, I have managed Queen Bee's quarterly newsletter delivered to residents. I maintain the schedule, solicit content from principals and board members, edit and layout the newsletter, and work with a print vendor to deliver a final product.
Northwestern Mutual
Independent Contractor - Blogger
Since 2015, I have written a wide variety of content for Northwester Mutual's Insights & Ideas blog. Topics have included women and family, self-employment, education and personal finance.

Reviews and references

Summary

Overall
Communication
Work
Knowledge

Recent reviews

Profile photo of Tuomas Liisanantti
 Tuomas Liisanantti

When in need of a great writer who can craft & submit quality copy (on business topics in my case); choose Debra.

Portfolio

Goodwill Industries Blog

Managed Goodwill's blog for several months in 2014. I assisted the online manager in curating content and wrote or edited posts, collaborating with subject-matter experts. I also selected stock images, edited all images, uploaded posts and moderated comments.

Rhythm and Rhymes Blog

Since 2013, I have managed the blog for Wee Heart Music, a local early childhood music provider offering Music Together classes. I collaborate with the director to learn what topics she would like covered, and I edit submissions from her or write my own posts based on interviews or research.

Taste of St. Louis - web content and marketing collateral

Since 2014, I have helped the Taste of St. Louis refine its web content and marketing collateral, including its full website, brochures to solicit sponsors, advertisements and posters promoting the event and even radio ads.

National Association of Manufacturers Monday Economic Report

On an as-needed basis I support the National Association of Manufacturers' editorial team and often review the weekly Monday Economic Report. I substantively edit the content and ensure accuracy in data reporting and links.

Embracing Your Role as a Working Mom

I interviewed author Gretchen Gage and two other working moms to highlight key points from Gagel's book.

Jessica Jackley: KIVA and New Business Thinking

I have covered four presentations for the Nordic Business Forum, including this one by Jessica Jackley.

Education

Accreditations

University of Kansas
Bachelor of Arts, English

Skills

Skills

Copyediting copywriting content curation content creation corporate communications public relations marketing newsletters journalism editing

Tools

Wordpress Facebook Twitter Instagram InDesign Photoshop Canva Powerpoint Constant Contact Google Analytics LinkedIn Hootsuite AP style Chicago Manual of Style Mailchimp

Availability

Not seeking work

Available

  • Available evenings and weekends

Commitment

  • Can work 10hrs per week
  • Can commit to 1+ years

Interests

Industries I love

Advertising & Marketing Education Food Government Health & Wellness Kids & Parenting PR & Communications Philanthropy Photography Social Enterprise

What I read

I love to read and will give anything a try! I recently finished The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Girl on the Train and The Circle. I also adore blogs on interior design, home decor, healthy eating and parenting.

Side projects

I am involved in several community organizations and often find myself volunteering my writing and editing talents. Currently I manage the Newcomers Club website, www.wheatonnewcomers.org, and write its monthly member newsletter.

Ideal team

My favorite clients are those who value collaboration to create a stellar product. I thrive on feedback, both positive and constructive, so I can truly understand my client's vision for the project. I value open communication and relationship building.