Content Rookie

Episode 49: What's the ROI of UX Writing?

In today's episode, guest Yael Ben-David and I dive into the ROI of UX Writing, why it's important to spend time with business stakeholders, and how you can make the value of UX writing clear to those around you. We also speak about the process of writing a book and Yael share's how her background in journalism and microbiology inspired her to become a Content Designer. 

Learning outcomes:

• Writing a book
• The ROI of UX Writing
• Collaborating with business stakeholders

Connect with guest, Yael Ben-David:

Website https://www.yaelbendavid.me/
Book https://abookapart.com/products/the-business-of-ux-writing

Connect with host, Nicole Michaelis:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 48: How to lead content design and stay sane while juggling different design philosophies

In this episode, guest Chelsea Larsson shares how she went from being a content design IC to becoming a content design leader. She dives into how she scaled leadership from a medium-sized team to over 60 people. Plus, she talks about what she learned when going from a research-driven design process to a more accelerated one.

Learning outcomes:

• From IC to management
• Scaling content design
• Leadership Philosophy
• Design philosophy  101

Connect with guest, Chelsea Larsson:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChelseaLarsson

Instagram: @chelslarss

Connect with host, Nicole Michaelis:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 47: Writing is designing and Figma ain't that great

Tag along as guest Michael Metts and I talk about his book 'Writing is designing' as well as a bunch of other things, such as Figma for UX writers or why you sometimes just need to claim the 'content designer' title to move up the career ladder.

Learning outcomes:

• How 'Writing is designing' came to be
• Workshops on content design with Michael and Andy
• Why Figma for writers is overrated
• How you sometimes just need to claim that UX writing title!

***

Connect with guest, Michael Metts:

"Where you can sign up for our newsletter to hear about workshops: https://www.writingisdesigning.com

Where I'm writing about leadership and will announce a new workshop soon: https://leadinglikeyou.com

If people want to stay in touch with me, there's LinkedIn and Twitter."

Connect with host, Nicole Michaelis:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 46: Misfit? This is why you're great at content.

In today's uber-exciting episode of Content Rookie, a punk and a hippie talk all things counterculture--and why it makes us better content designers. We discuss 10 counterculture approaches that work like a charm when you're working in content design, UX writing or copywriting. Long episode! 100% worth a listen.

Learning outcomes:

• What countercultures and content design have in common
• Counterculture ways of looking at things in tech
• From punk to top content designer
• Turning you're (unique) perspective into your strength in content

***

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Connect with the guest, Bill:
Website: https://www.billkurland.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-kurland/

Episode 45: You're underestimating the importance of SEO for UX writing 

In today's episode, guest Kat from TheKatCopy and I talk about all things SEO for UX content. SEO is more than a content marketing tactic and can be a great way to inform your product work - from information flow to search habits. Why it's often overlooked, how to best use it in content design and how to get into it (quickly!) are the main topics.

Learning outcomes:

• Why SEO is important for UX writing
• What SEO is
• How to get started with SEO
• Selling SEO to clients
• UX writing examples with SEO

***

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Connect with the guest, Kat:
Website: http://thekatcopy.com, 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thekatcopy?s=09

Episode 44: Running a successful project with a UX writer, designer and researcher

In today's episode, guest Jack Garfinkel shares all about a successful pilot project they were part of which introduced content design at their current place of work (Scope). We also talk about accessibility challenges and how to ensure an inclusive hiring process that makes space for diversity. A lot of good stuff to learn here!

Learning outcomes:

• What makes a design project successful
• How do writers, designers and researchers best collaborate
• How to create an inclusive hiring process
• How to scale a team
• How to successfully design user tests

***

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Connect with the guest, Jack Garfinkel:
Content at Scope: https://medium.com/content-at-scope

Jack on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CuriousScutter

Episode 43: How to explain what you do as a designer or writer

In today's episode, my guest Anders and I get a little philosophical. With both freelancing and in-house experience under our belt, we've both noticed one challenge that never seems to get any easier to solve: how to best describe what we do to clients or employers. No matter if it's about choosing a title or understanding a brief, going broad or niching down can make or break a career. Here are our thoughts on understanding what we do (as creatives) and explaining it to others.

Learning outcomes:

• Popular titles in design
• Popular titles for writers
• How titles affect a pitch
• Describing what you do
• Defining what you do
• How niching down or being a generalist affect your chances of finding work

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Connect with the guest, Anders:

https://twitter.com/andersotherwise

https://anders-creative.com/


Anders' new podcast 'How creatives work':

https://anchor.fm/howcreativeswork/episodes/Welcome-to-How-Creatives-Work-e1mhemu

Episode 42: Get over your tone and voice guidelines

Tone and voice guidelines, as well as any other writing style guidance, are a big topic among writers of all sorts. However, ensuring guidelines make sense in the long run, are inclusive, and are maintained properly is one of the biggest challenges in the field - not just for UX writers. In today's episode, I share my take on creating writing guidance for companies and teams and what has to change (IMO) to make sure It stays relevant. 

Learning outcomes:

• What is Tone and Voice?
• What do writing guidelines cover
• Guideline formats
• New formats on the rise
• Ensuring contribution and maintenance of guidelines for all 
• Who follows writing guidance and who doesn't 
• Challenges in creating/maintaining/distributing guidance

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 41: Junior UX writers! This one is for you.

Today's guest has had quite a journey: from working in advertisement in Nigeria to freelancing and finally landing a job as a Junior UX writer in Europe. Ifi shares what courses and resources helped him switch careers, why there aren't enough junior content design positions, and what the industry needs to improve to attract diverse talent.

Learning outcomes:

• Day2day of a Junior UX writer
• Landing your first job in UX writing
• Building a content design portfolio from scratch
• Relocating to Europe
• Diversity in UX writing
• Why we need more positions for juniors

Connect with the guest, Ifi:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ifeanyichukwu-ekwegbalu-00223b161/

https://twitter.com/Dera__UX

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 40: Freelancing as a content designer or UX writer

Running your own business as a content designer/UX writer is certainly empowering, but more complex than freelancing in most other writing disciplines. In this episode, I dive into what it takes to get started as a freelance content designer, what to look out for, how to set boundaries, what to charge, plus I share some of the things I've learned freelancing in content design over the years. Enjoy!

Learning outcomes:

• How does freelancing as a UX writer work
• How to get clients
• How to scope out work and write proposals
• What to charge
• What processes work for me
• and more!

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 39: UX writing compensation, negotiating your salary, and working in tech (EMEA focus)

In today's episode, my guest Fran Cantanuso and I talk about negotiating salaries and perks as content designers as well as our experience with compensation levels as we developed our careers. The episode also dives into how UX writing is different from other content and writing disciplines, why it often pays more, what salary levels in EMEA look like, and what working in tech feels like. Come for the thoughts on €€€, stay for the discussion of first-hand experiences.

Learning outcomes:

• Compensation levels in UX writing/content design
• Why UX writing pays 'better'
• Working in tech
• Salary development as you grow your career
• Negotiating your salary + perks

Connect with the guest, Fran:

https://twitter.com/AmsterFran

https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-catanuso-0571a924/

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 38: Why you don't need to hire a native English UX writer

UX writer or Content designer but not native in English? This shouldn't limit your success. Sadly, the reality often is that it's difficult to get hired if you're not on a native English level. In today's episode, my guest Stanislav and I discuss the challenges non-native English candidates face and how we can overcome them.

Learning outcomes:

• Why native English doesn't automatically make you a better writer
• How to raise awareness with recruiters and hiring managers
• How to present yourself as a non-native English speaker
• Avoiding discrimination

Connect with the guest, Stan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanislav-olenchenko-25792b179/

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 37: Career transitioning to UX Writing and building content guidelines from scratch

Final episode of the year! Join my guest Aladrian Goods (Senior Content Designer at Intuit) and me in an episode where we talk about her path into UX Writing, tips and tricks when working with content partners, setting up content guidelines from scratch, and much more.

Learning outcomes:

• Career transitioning into UX (from marketing and startups)
• Establishing yourself in UX Writing
• Working with content partners
• Creating content guidelines

Connect with the guest, Aladrian:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AladrianNo_L

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aladriangoods/

Connect with your host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 36: Content design hacks for your everyday life

Content design is awesome! But did you know you can apply it to your everyday life and communication as well? In this episode, I talk about some of the content design tools and approaches you can take to e.g. writing emails, asking for input from colleagues, and writing documents. A short but sweet exploration of content design thinking for anyone - even content newbies. 

Learning outcomes:

• Writing better emails
• Glossaries for everything
• How the table of contents can simplify your life
• Do's and don'ts writing

Connect with the host, Nicole Michaelis:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 35: UX Writing, but not in English - how culture shapes writing in different languages

In today's episode, my guest Gladys and I talk about how writing for UX in other languages than English differs from writing in English. We discuss how culture affects your writing approach for each language, how the market for UX writers in various languages differs from the English market, how you can write in several languages, and how you can start out as a UX Writer in any language.

Learning outcomes:

• UX Writing in several languages
• UX Writing when English isn't your primary language
• Do you have to be native to write in any language?
• Getting started writing in any language but English
• The difference between English writing projects and others

Connect with my guest, Gladys:

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gladysdiandoki/?originalSubdomain=fr

Twitter https://twitter.com/Gladysdit

Connect with the host, Nicole Michaelis:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 34: Writing and designing for a neurodivergent audience - and how you can be sneaky about inclusion!

In today's episode, my guest Katrin Suetterlin and I introduce you to neurodiversity. We talk about what it means for content and user experiences, and what you can do to raise awareness. 

Learning outcomes:

• Intro to Neurodiversity
• Neurodivergencies vs disabilities
• Advocacy
• Raising awareness
• Challenges in user experience design

Ebook accessibility

https://accessibility.uxdesign.cc/

Tokenism topic by Frank Spillers

https://frankie-spillers.medium.com/avoiding-user-tokenism-or-excluding-users-when-your-intent-was-inclusive-design-a92db1292e6c

Connect with my guest, Katrin:

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrin-suetterlin/

Medium https://katrinsuetterlin.medium.com/

Twitter https://twitter.com/honest_x_sleep 

Substack: https://katrin.substack.com/

Connect with the host, Nicole Michaelis:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 33: How UX Writers and UX Designers collaborate - or why you should always keep asking questions

Magic happens when UX Designers and UX Writers collaborate as equals. But how do you set up the collaboration and what are some of the challenges? Today's guest, Silvi Toader from Adobe, shares her experience of working with writers throughout her career and has some encouraging words for those just starting out in the field.

Learning outcomes:

• How UX Writers and UX Designers collaborate
• Convincing stakeholders together
• How to get a seat at the table
• How to work under high pressure and a fast pace
• 
  

Connect with the guest, Silvi:

https://twitter.com/silvianatoader

https://www.linkedin.com/in/silvianatoader/

https://medium.com/stage13

Connect with the host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 32: Burnout and exhaustion while working in content - you're not alone

Today's episode is a discussion with two guests, Jane Ruffino and Candi Williams. We talk about how common burnout is when working in content and specifically as UX Writers in tech. We discuss our experience, what you can do to help yourself and others experiencing exhaustion, and how you can involve managers to help you. Most of all, we acknowledge that there are systemic issues when working as a UX Writer or Content Designer that may be contributing to feelings of fatigue and depression.

Learning outcomes:

• Challenges when working in content
• How to set boundaries
• Speaking up when you're being spread too thin

Connect with the guests, Candi and Jane:

Candi Williams: https://linktr.ee/candwrites

Jane Ruffino: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-ruffino-ab490158/

Connect with the host, Nicole:

nicoletells.com // Contentrookiepod.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

[email protected]

Episode 31: A/B-testing designs and copy

In this episode, I interview Product Designer Anna who works on a Growth team and runs A/B-tests every day. We talk about what to look out for when designing A/B-tests, what you can do when you're first getting started with testing, and how the day2day in a Growth team looks like.

Learning outcomes:

• What is A/B-testing?
• A/B-testing for copy
• A/B-testing top tips
• Working in Growth
• Examples of easy things to test and how to break down more difficult scenarios
• Skillsets needed to run successful tests (for copy or design)

Connect with the guest, Anna:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/annahatzisavas/

Connect with the host, Nicole:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

nicoletells.com

Twitter: @nicoletellsit

[email protected]

Episode 30: Your first 90 days on the job as a UX Writer/Content Strategist

Are you starting a new job or project as a UX Writer, Content Strategist, or Content Designer? Congrats! I've bundled all my tips and tricks into this quick episode. Focus on what matters most (relationships, processes, metrics, your well-being) and educate others about what you do.

Bookmark contentrookiepod.com!

Learning outcomes:

• What to focus on first
• Documentation
• Who to build relationships with
• How to establish processes from scratch
• How to not get overwhelmed
• Sharing with your manager
• Educating others about UX Writing

Connect with the host, Nicole:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

nicoletells.com

Twitter: @nicoletellsit

[email protected]

Episode 29: Why everyone wants a Senior UX Writer, negotiating your salary, mentoring and developing your skills

It was hard to find a title for this episode, which is a fruitful discussion between Patrick Stafford, Co-founder of the UX Writers Collective, and me. We talk about mentoring and coaching and why they are important, why everyone wants Senior Content Designers, and how to (potentially) solve this, plus other topics such as salary, development, and diversity challenges in the field. 

Learning outcomes:

• Hiring junior writers and why everyone wants a Senior UX Writer
• Getting mentored and coached
• Mentoring vs Coaching
• Negotiating your salary
• Diversity in the field and why it is lacking
• Developing your skills as a UX Writing or Content Design Lead

Connect with Patrick:

http://pdstafford.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-stafford/

https://uxwriterscollective.com/

Connect with the host, Nicole:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

nicoletells.com

contentrookiepod.com

[email protected]

Episode 28: UX Writing and Content Documentation

Starting on a new project or new to the Content Design world? Documentation is key to creating a consistent experience with your content. But what type of documentation do you need when and how should it look like? In this episode, I share what works for me when it comes to documentation and why I think this could be valuable for you even if you're not a writer.

Learning outcomes:

• What is content/UX Writing documentation?
• What formats should you use?
• Which documents should you start with?
• What about Slack, Trello, and Figma?
• Where does UXW Documentation fit into the Design System?
• ...many more tips!

Connect with Nicole: [email protected]

contentrookiepod.com // nicoletells.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 27: Breaking into UX Writing, being a Generalist, and why UX Writing salaries are higher

Need some practical tips for getting into UX Writing? Are you wondering if being a generalist is even appreciated? And why the heck are UX Writers paid more than most other writers? Well, in today's episode with Yuval Kreshtcher we dig into all these topics and more. Join us for a fun episode that'll is aimed to make you feel a little more welcome in the field of UX Writing.

Learning outcomes:

• Transitioning into UX Writing from other fields
• Learning UX Writing - what does that even mean?
• Why UX Writing pays more
• Easy tips to get you started in the field or help you figure out if UX Writing is right for you

Connect with Yuval:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuvalkesh/

https://uxwritinghub.com/

Connect with your host, Nicole:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

nicoletells.com

contentrookiepod.com

[email protected]

Episode 26: How to do UX writing without a UX Writer

Don't have the budget for a UX Writer, Content Strategist or Content Designer yet? Well, there's plenty you can do to improve your microcopy anyway and it will pave the way for future UX Writers. This episode is especially for young companies and start-ups looking to create better UX copy on a small budget.

Learning outcomes:

• Who can do UX writing in your team?
• How to keep track of copy throughout the design process
• How to get better at UX writing as a non-writer
• Budget ideas

Connect with the host, Nicole Michaelis:

Websites:

nicoletells.com

contentrookiepod.com

Social media:

https://twitter.com/nicoletellsit

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 25: Your UX Writing Portfolio 

All your questions around UX Writing portfolios are answered in this episode with Senior UX Writer Anjana Menon (currently at Spotify). Anjana and Nicole talk about whether you need a UX Writing portfolio, what should be in it, how it should look and how a portfolio review works. Tune in if you're looking to break into UX Writing or get your portfolio up to speed.

Learning outcomes:

• UX Writing portfolio yes or no?
• How many cases do you need?
• What format should you use?
• How to present your portfolio
• How to get started with 0 experience

Connect with our guest, Anjana:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anjimenon/

https://www.anjanamenon.com/

Content with the host, Nicole:

Email: [email protected]

nicoletells.com

https://twitter.com/nicoletellsit

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 24: UX Writing and Content Design Stakeholders

UX Writing, Content Design, and Content Strategy are all about collaboration. Your day-to-day work will likely involve people from Design, Legal, Tech, Localization, and many more. So how do you best build functional relationships with all these people? Two experienced UX Writers/Content Designers share their thoughts in today's episode. Featuring Mario Ferrer, Lead Content Designer at King.

Learning outcomes:

• Who are common UX Writing stakeholders?
• The day-to-day work of a UX Writer
• Collaborating well in Content

Connect with the host:

nicoletells.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Connect with the guest, Mario Ferrer:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marioferrer/

Mentioned in episode:

About silos and bridges https://twitter.com/hondanhon?s=21

About sentence case https://readabilityguidelines.co.uk/grammar-points/capital-letters/#1-do-not-capitalise-whole-words-or-phrases 

Mario's UXWs in Spain group https://twitter.com/ContentDesignES https://www.meetup.com/ContentDesignES/

Episode 23: UX Writing, Content Strategy, and Content Design - Then, now, and in the future

(Working title: Labels are for icons, not people: but apparently nobody gets what we’re doing) In this episode with guest Jane Ruffino, we discuss all things UX Writing. How did it start years ago? Where is it now? Why are the titles so confusing and how do they make our job harder?

The longest episode of Content Rookie to date! But it's so worth it.

Learning outcomes:

• What is UX Writing (really)?
• What is Content Strategy (really)?
• Challenges in UX Writing
• Why Copywriting isn't bad
• How a diverse background makes you a better (UX) Writer

Connect with the host:

nicoletells.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Connect with the guest:

http://www.workwithjane.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-ruffino-ab490158/

Episode 22: How to get paid

I wanted to give this episode a fancy title, but really it's just about this: how to get paid as a writer or content marketer. I talk about how I got started freelancing and give full transparency of my rates through the years. What impacted my rate, how did I increase it, and what can help you negotiate your salary if you're working in-house?

Learning outcomes:

• Starting from 0, building your portfolio
• Rate vs experience/value
• Negotiating your rate/salary
• How to increase your value as a writer

Connect with the host:

nicoletells.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 21: How User Research can take your copy to the next level

A conversation with User Research Estelle van Ravestyn that goes into the basics of User Research and how it can benefit your writing (and design!). 

Learning outcomes:

• What is User Research?
• User Research for (UX) Writers
• How to do your own User Research
• How to work with your bias

Connect with my guest:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/estellevanravestyn/

Connect with the host:

nicoletells.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 20: You don't need to be a writer to be a copywriter

A conversation with my friend Jörgen Kjellgren on how our backgrounds affect our writing and our ways of working. We talk about topics such as staying creative and focused on personal projects while also working creatively, how music-making could make you a better writer, and how being very firm with who you are can make it easier to find the right clients.

Learning outcomes:

• A different perspective on writing
• How creativity changes with seniority
• Standing up for yourself throughout your writing career

Connect with my guest:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/j%C3%B6rgen-kjellgren-8237ba178/

Jörgen's music: 

https://www.ruralsounds.com/jorgen-kjellgren

https://open.spotify.com/artist/49dj9JMf1fRLv9VqBggYfi

Connect with the host:

nicoletells.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 19: How cultural context affects your UX writing 

With hundreds of markets and different cultures, creating a one-size-fits-all approach to writing is simply not possible - no matter if you're a UX Writer, Copywriter or Content Marketer. Join me and my guest Robin Reidl (Spotify) in today's episode on Culture + Design. How can you test for cultural aspects and immerse your writing processes with the right amount of context? What are low- and high-context and how do they differ? And how do you convince stakeholders to make culture a core of design and writing?

Learning outcomes:

• The caveats of arguing for a culture-focus to writing
• Testing UX copy for different markets
• The benefits of bringing together culture and design
• Low context vs high context for UX writing
• Localizing high-context scenarios

Connect with my guest Robin Reidl:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tidalreidl/

Connect with the host:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

nicoletells.com

Episode 18: From Copywriter to UX Writer - Which writing discipline suits you?

Many writing disciplines, even more career opportunities. But what does a Content Writer do vs a UX Writer? How does Content Marketing differ from Content Writing or Content Management? Who needs to know SEO, have a thing for data or design? And who does the actual writing? Tune into this episode to get insights into my experience from working across various writing disciplines and find the one that suits your interests, skills, and lifestyle.

Disciplines discussed: Copywriting, UX Writing, Technical Writing, Content Writing, Content Marketing, SEO Writing, Editing, Translating, Content Management.

Learning outcomes:

• Which disciplines work best for freelancing?
• How do disciplines differ in salary range?
• How can you progress?
• What skills are beneficial for each discipline?
• How does the day to day work look like?

Episode 17: How localization can accelerate the quality of your content

Join me and my guest Martina Russo (Movingwordstranslations.com) in a conversation about how localization works in practice, how to manage it, and the tools that can help you achieve the next level of quality. If localization is more than just translations, how do you ensure you have all the tools and knowledge you need to achieve top quality? Martina has been working with localization for many years and has managed a team of localization experts. She shares her insights with us.

Learning outcomes:

- Localization in practice (what's the process like?)

- Where to begin

- Useful tools for localization

- Best practice

Connect with me:

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Connect with my guest:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinarussomovingwords/

Episode 16: Why you need to pay attention to localization

Join me and my guest Hristina Racheva (Google, Skyscanner) in a conversation about the importance of lozalization and why it can make or break your user experience. Most companies hire specialized writers only for their master language (usually, English) and foreign-speaking markets can suffer from bad translations, even damaging a brand's reputation. But localization is more than just translations. 

Learning outcomes:

• What is localization?
• Why localization is more than just translations
• How you can support localization as a writer
• The opportunities of hiring a localization manager

...and more!

Connect with me:

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Connect with my guest:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hristinaracheva/

Tools mentioned:

https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/

Episode 15: 7 common UX Writing issues

In this episode, I take you through some of the most common UX Writing issues and how you can approach them - from writing error messages and designing onboarding to choosing your casing and punctuation. Spoiler alert: consistency always wins!

Learning outcomes:

• Quick fixes for UX Writing
• Why details matter
• When to bring a designer into the picture
• Writing buttons
• Writing error messages
• Why you don't need to name everything
• Designing onboarding

Connect with the host:

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 14: What is technical writing?

In today's episode, I discuss all things technical writing with my guest James McKie (iZettle/Paypal). James has been a technical writer both in-house and independently for 20+ years and shares everything you need to know about technical writing and how it's different from other writing disciplines.

Learning outcomes:

• What is technical writing?
• How much tech is in technical writing?
• How does the day2day of a technical writer look like?
• Tips to get started with technical writing

Connect with the host:

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Connect with the guest:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrmckie/

Episode 13: How to get published

I published my first poetry collection with an indie publisher last December and it was everything but smooth. After a chaotic couple of months, my book was made available but I wish I'd done a lot of things differently. Learn from my mistakes.

Learning outcomes:

• Publisher red flags
• How to choose a publisher
• Finding an agent
• When and why you should consider self-publishing

Connect with the host:

BUY MY BOOK: https://www.amazon.de/Nobody-Cares-But-You-growing/dp/1948333120

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 12: Is your copy any good? Measuring content and copy

Measuring content and copy impact can be challenging. How do you set KPIs and what should you truly look out for when capturing feedback from users? In this episode, I share my thoughts on all things measuring copy impact.

Learning outcomes:

• Why measure content/copy?
• How to set KPIs
• Why making friends with Customer Success Teams is important
• A/B testing content and copy
• Ensuring you draw the right conclusions 

Connect with the host:

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 11: Content for Growth - Generating leads with content

For most companies, content efforts serve only one purpose: lead generation. But it can be tough to create content that generates leads. You have to align with other marketing initiatives and teams while still being mindful of putting out good content and not alienating your audience. Is there even such a thing as content for growth? There is! And today's guest, Michael Perna, shares plenty of actionable insights from his career working in growth. 

Learning outcomes:

• What is growth marketing?
• How does content marketing fit into it?
• Examples of really good lead generation content

Connect with the host:

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Connect with the guest:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcp/

Michael's new project: https://www.instagram.com/leksplay/

Episode 10: UX Writing - What it is and how to get into it

UX Writing (User Experience Writing) is getting more popular by the day with many companies hiring their first UX writers. But what actually is UX Writing and how does it differ from copywriting? Is it just about Microcopy? These questions and more are answered in this all-new episode of Content Rookie.

Learning outcomes:

• UX Writing - Definition
• What does a UX Writer do?
• UX Writing in a Design Team
• The Day2Day of a UX Writer
• UX Writing examples

Host: Connect with Nicole Michaelis

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Episode 9: The dos and don'ts of copywriting

There's a lot of copywriting advice on the internet. And some advice is better than others. In this episode, we look at some common copywriting dos and don'ts and discuss when and how specific copywriting tricks make sense - so you can become better at writing and writing copy. 

Learning outcomes:

• What really good copy looks like
• What you should avoid when writing copy
• Copywriting vs UX writing
• Copywriting tips and tricks

Host:

Connect with Nicole Michaelis

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Content Rookie Episode 8: Getting into freelance writing

This episode goes beyond our usual programming due to the number of requests for insights on freelance writing and copywriting. Together with guest Kat, we explore what freelance writing looks like in practice, how freelance writing, editing, and copywriting differ, and how to get started.

Learning outcomes:

• What background do I need to become a freelance writer?
• Freelance writing vs freelance copywriting
• What to think about before you start freelancing
• How to market yourself as a freelancer

...and more!

Host: 

Connect with Nicole Michaelis

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Instagram: instagram.com/nicoletells

Guest:

Connect with Kat: https://msha.ke/thekatedit/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekatedit/

Episode 7: Kick-ass copywriting

Copywriting is (mis)understood as a lot of different things - but what does it really come down to? Clarity. Structure. Persuasion. And some kick-ass writing. If you're wondering what copywriting really is about or interested in getting into it, this episode covers the basics.

What you'll learn:

• What copywriting is
• How copywriting differs from content writing
• The basics of copywriting
• Priming
• Copywriting vs UX writing

...and more!

Connect with Nicole Michaelis

Website: nicoletells.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

Instagram: instagram.com/nicoletells

Episode 6: Getting started with SEO (Search Engine Optimization)

SEO and content are barely separable anymore in a time where most people do their research online. No matter if you're trying to sell, entertain or educate your audience, you're going to want to know the basics of SEO to ensure your content is found by the right people. In today's episode, we have our first guest speaker, Erik Huss, a Swedish SEO Specialist and Marketer. Together, we cover the basics of all things SEO to try to get one message across: it's not as difficult as you think and it's definitely worth it.

Learning Outcomes:

What is SEO?

How to get started with SEO

How has SEO changed over the past years

The most important pillars of SEO

Connect with Erik Huss: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikhuss1992/

Connect with Nicole Michaelis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

by Nicoletells.com 

Episode 5: Become a great storyteller

Storytelling is a bit of a buzzword in content marketing and copywriting. But it really shouldn't be. It actually is THAT important. Stories can make or break your brand and a good brand story can pull all your content efforts together. It's always worth it to try to tell better stories. We're looking at how to do that in this episode.

Learning outcomes:

• What is storytelling?
• What is brand storytelling?
• What are the benefits of great storytelling?
• What are some great brand story examples?
• How to angle your story based on a desired outcome
• Storytelling exercises

...and more!

Connect with Nicole Michaelis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

by Nicoletells.com

Episode 4: Crafting content along the user journey

A look at the user journey or customer journey and how it affects content. What type of content is required for different touchpoints? How does Awareness, Consideration or Purchase intent affect the content format? Find out in this episode of Content Rookie by Nicole Michaelis.

Learning outcomes:

• Understanding of the marketing/sales funnel
• Understanding of different stages in the user journey
• Creating your content buckets
• Tool: Customer Journey Maps (and how to use them)

Connect with Nicole Michaelis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

by Nicoletells.com

Episode 3: Creating authentic content
Understand how company values affect content output and how to leverage them to create authentic content people truly care about. Authentic content marketing doesn't have to be difficult, but it requires that you stop thinking like a salesman and start thinking like a mentor. Why? Find out in this episode of Content Rookie.

Learning outcomes:

• Understanding what makes content authentic
• How company/brand values and come together as a foundation for tonality
• How to develop the tonality of your content
• Why a defined tonality makes content more authentic
• Examples of authentic content initiatives
  

Connect with Nicole Michaelis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

by Nicoletells.com

Episode 2: Getting to know your audience

Learn how to use the Persona framework to get to know your audience. Who are they, what do they consume and how does that impact the content you create? 

Knowing your audience (their goals, fears, values, interests) is the foundation for creating relevant content. How would you be able to provide valuable content otherwise? I'll be talking about the Persona framework as a great way to structure your research and to define your audience. 

Learning outcomes:

• Defining your audience
• How to research personas
• Content Personas and how to create them
• Defining what channels and content formats are relevant for your personas

Connect with Nicole Michaelis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

by Nicoletells.com

Episode 1: What is content marketing?

An introduction to what content marketing is and its purpose. A look at current trends, challenges and best-practice (B2C, B2B).

Content marketing means a lot of different things to a lot of people. But really, it's about delivering value your audience cares about. Like in any good relationship. Let's dive in and see how this can look like for different companies and what you should really focus on before you start any content initiatives. 

Learning outcomes:

• Understanding of what content marketing is
• Understanding of the differences between B2B and B2C content initiatives
• Knowledge of common challenges and best-practice

Connect with Nicole Michaelis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletells/

by Nicoletells.com