Writer

 

Name: Kathy

Job Title: Writer

What exactly is that?

I write for a living – sometimes it is magazine articles on a particular specialism – sometimes it’s it is copy writing, which means writing words for a website, leaflet brochure or piece of marketing material – and sometimes it is online content like blogs. I have also self published books.

How did you get there?

I had an unconventional route to my current position. After school I became an apprentice working with horses – I then went on to study media and worked as a TV researcher, PR consultant, copywriter and advertising executive, and deputy editor on a magazine, before starting my own PR and writing business 24 years after I left school. The most useful thing I ever did was many unpaid work experience placements during my time at college!

Give us an idea of a typical day for you:

Every day is different as I am a mum. I often skip breakfast and just have a coffee. If my little boy is at preschool I will drop him off and come home and work for three hours. I have a home office! This will be things like magazine and website article writing. I also have to factor in walking the dog and looking after my horse. Then after lunch I will spend time with my little boy and do all of the normal chores like shopping and cooking! Sometimes I will work some more after he has gone to bed.

What’s the best thing about what you do?

Because I work for myself I can make my own hours.

What’s the one thing you would change if you could?

The lack of financial certainty.

What did you want to do for a living when you were at school?

I wanted to work with horses and become a riding instructor which I did for six years before changing careers.

Tell us about one thing you were insecure about when you were younger:

I was very insecure about my abilities in the field of maths – I never did anything about it and subsequently I’m still very poor at maths and have a bookkeeper and accountant to help me.

What advice would you give yourself at 18 if you could?

Really enjoy the late teen years as they could well be the best of your life. Your body hangups are all in your head. This could well be the best shape your body will be in for the rest of your life!

What’s your favourite thing to do in your spare time?

I don’t have much spare time but I suppose it would be horseriding.

What’s the title of the last book you read?

It was probably a biography and I think the last one was of an actress or comedian! I don’t get a lot of time to read for myself sadly.

Please share with us one beauty tip you have learned:

Sudocrem antiseptic nappy rash cream makes a great face mask.

Share with us one money tip:

Plan your meals a week in advance and go to a cheap supermarket.

Please share with us one life lesson:

It doesn’t really matter what your family think.

Tell us about your favourite recent purchase of £25 or under

It would be clothes for my son probably a boring answer!

Where can people find you for more info?

Sireniabooks.com or Sirenia.co.uk