In case your head has been up your ass as you've been reading this blog for the past year (and that would really be impressive if you could read whilst your head was in your ass), then you'd know that I really mean I want to work with an animal welfare organization. I'd also like to say that I'd like to work with an environmental advocacy group but sometimes I feel like I'm not really up to snuff with being as eco-concious as possible. The Baltimore City public transportation system scares me. Aaanywho…
Every so often I peruse the Humane Society's site for open positions in Maryland and nothing ever catches my eye. I've always just had it in my mind that when I'm done with school, I'll have time to volunteer with them or with my local SPCA.
Even less often, I peruse PETA's site for open positions. This isn't because I don't support PETA. This is because PETA is located in Norfolk, VA and that isn't exactly within driving distance of Baltimore.
Recently I was on PETA's site and thought I'd check out their open positions for kicks and saw this:
PETA Blogger
Position Objective:
To create a window into the daily goings-on and campaigns of the organization by writing and posting creative and interesting content on PETA's blog
This position is available for telecommuting.
Holy crap - a position that combines some of the things I love (animals and blogging!) AND can be done from my own home?! Shut the fuck up!
The requirements are a bit intimidating:
Previous exceptional writing experience, which can include writing for blogs, newspapers, magazines, or other publications
Previous Web writing experience and knowledge of Search Engine Optimization
Thorough knowledge of the blogosphere
College degree in a related field or several years of equivalent experience
Ability to work independently and under pressure
Proven ability to meet deadlines
Ability to make sound judgments and deal with a variety of people in a professional manner
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Thorough knowledge of animal rights issues and campaigns
Supportive position vis-à-vis PETA's philosophy and ability to professionally advocate PETA's positions on issues
Adherence to a vegetarian lifestyle
Ability to professionally advocate PETA's positions on issues
Commitment to the objectives of the organization
I mean - I don't particularly find my writing to be exceptional and what the hell is Search Engine Optimization?
Do I take a chance?
Disclaimer: If you happen to be someone I currently with with or for - this is not me saying I plan on quitting the company. I actually love this company. Great benefits, good people… I really like it here. So don't go assuming anything…
I'm such a puss when it comes to taking a leap of faith. On top of wanting to work with an animal welfare group - I've always entertained the romantic notion of being a writer. I love it. While I am clearly not a good writer, it is something I truly love doing.
About 7 years ago, I went to a psychic for fun. The psychic, however, freaked me the fuck out with the amount of stuff she told me about my own life. I mean, she rattled off details that she couldn't have come up with on her own or inferred from any sort of facial tick I was giving. Regardless - she said that one day I'd find success as a writer. I laughed at this idea because I wasn't into writing but now I wonder…
9 comments:
TAKE THE CHANCE! TAKE IT TAKE IT TAKE IT!!!
It's always worth the shot! I say go for it - the worst that could happen is that they pass.
(I know what SEO is, but have no idea how to do it)
definitely go for it. i write for a living. you can do it. let me know if you want any advice/tips. (and I know what SEO is and i could tell you enough for you to ace the interview like you know).
Sounds like a great opportunity - you gotta at least try, right?!?!
I say to apply - the worst that can happen is that you don't hear back! Do it!
I say apply, too! As for SEO, it sounds like Willikat can give you the great scoop, but in a nutshell it's knowing how to infuse keywords/search terms in order to make the PETA site easier to find and higher ranking when people Google certain terms.
It sounds like a great opportunity, and I think you should take a chance if it interests you, but before you go putting in your notice, I suggest doing a little research to see if you can find out stories of other people who have worked for the organization. I've heard anecdotal stories that it's not the greatest company to work for. But then again, they are so controversial, there's lots of rumor and innuendo floating around out there about them...
Go for it! That sounds like a great opportunity.
definitely go for it, hon. and your writing IS exceptional ... it's engaging and easy to read ... you already have that part of the requirements in the bag.
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