Breaking into content design

"As a copywriter aspiring to break into Content Design, I faced fear, insecurity, felt lost and uncertain. This is the story of how I took a few bold steps - (1) force my previous job to fit the work of a content designer into (2) network with the global community of content designers and (3) wear the entrepreneur hat. It was a lonely, uncertain and miserably long journey but it was worth it. Just when I decided to give up, one recruiter held on to me and led me to my current career at Accenture. That's all anyone needs: one break. The rest will follow as you tread on this path.

"I became a UX Writer without really knowing what one was, because I wanted to live in Amsterdam. With this talk, I will try to ensure that your first six months as a UX Writer/Content Designer are less chaotic than mine. The ultimate guide to saying no to imposter syndrome, and not getting fired.

"The goal of the talk is to provide strategies and tools for gaining confidence when transitioning into tech. It will also include methods for maintaining confidence when onboarding a new job. The talk will touch on obtaining experience when you’re completely new to the field, navigating job applications, the relationship with imposter syndrome, and branding yourself as a new Content Designer.

"Content creation, like many other careers, can include times of set-backs, rejection and self-doubt. This session will explore, through a series of brief interactive practices, how to stay centered and confident in yourself. Megan will weave together her experience as a psychologist and yoga teacher to remind you of your strengths and help you find ways to soothe the inner critic, empowering you to let yourself shine!

"Thinking about switching your career to content design? Not sure where to start, or if you have the skills to be successful? Do you have ideas about how to improve communications in your organization? If you’re considering a career shift, or have identified needs at your job, you’re already aware of how content design impacts people. And, you're aware of the importance of thoughtful, inclusive communication. Part pep talk, part prep talk, part practical advice, this session will help you start where you are:

• Recognize skills and characteristics you already have that can be applied to the content design field
• Find or make opportunities in your current position
• Trust your knowledge and experience, and inspire trust in your colleagues and audiences
• Meet people where they are with the information they need in the ways they are able to receive it

"In her talk, Cara shares her journey transitioning from a freelance blogger into a full-time content designer through self-studying, curating an irresistible resume, and acing content design interviews. Learn how to tackle common interview questions using the STAR method, give constructive feedback to mock crit reviews, as well as make your resume stand out.

She will also touch on things you can do to grow the content practice at your company and establish yourself as a subject matter expert.

"Looking to learn what tools you might use as a UX Writer? Then this is the talk for you!

I'll cover some of the most common tools used by UX Writers and Content Designers ranging from tools for writing, enhancing your writing, and visualizing your work/collaborating with a team. I'll also include a bonus tool that's helped me both write better and break through the dreaded writer's block.