Conant Correct by Claire Conant

A little background

I’ve been writing and editing for years in one fashion or another, but always in the corporate environment, for a long time in Human Resources, and then in the technical communications arena. I have had the opportunity to write and edit just about every type of corporate communication possible. It’s something I enjoy and something I’m good at - or so I’m told.

However, I grew weary of corporate head honchos and other management types determining my worth and setting limits to how successful I am, regardless of how hard I work. A few years ago, I was in my manager’s office. I recall mentioning to him something about starting a writing and editing business. I think then my thoughts were centered more around the idea that he should start it and I’d come work for him.

Consulting anyone?

Fast forward a couple years. That manager left, and I assumed his role - unofficially - leading a team of two technical writers, as well as managing the implementation of a corporate intranet upgrade using Microsoft SharePoint 2007. I was smart enough to know that I was lacking in some critical areas of expertise, so I hired some consultants who could handle the technical side of the implementation and I worked closely with them. It was during this time that I realized I really liked the consultant side of business.

Once the implementation was complete, I changed sides and started to work as an editor for a consulting firm. I absolutely loved it. I loved working with different clients, I loved the exposure to a variety of topics and businesses, and I got to see how the inside of a consulting firm works. I also had the chance to work with some very intelligent and creative people. I remember during the hiring interview telling the hiring manager that I’d start my own writing and editing consulting firm, if I had the courage, which I didn’t at the time.

Change comes unannounced

On December 14, 2007, that consulting firm reorganized and I was essentially laid off. It came as a complete surprise as I was still finishing up a project for a client, and we expected there to be another phase to that project. However, over the holiday period this gave me some time to reflect on my future and what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted more flexibility in my lifestyle, more control over my income, and more control over my career. Starting my business seemed to be the best option.

Starting Up

Once I made the decision to go solo, I came up with a business name and got my business license. That previous consulting company still contracts out work to me and I have work coming in from other places. I’m quickly learning to appreciate the ebb and flow of working for oneself - primarily the financial fluctuations. Once I understood how this worked, I learned to panic less and believe in myself.

Where will it lead?

I really like this new lifestyle I’ve chosen.As I go along, I’ll share with you some of the events that have occurred as I start my own business. I’m not sure where it will all lead. Perhaps someday I’ll own my own staff of fabulous writers and editors, or perhaps I’ll continue on my path of working for myself, by myself. Time will tell.