Derek Strum
@derekstrum
Experienced writer and editor with a decade of diverse expertise.
What I'm looking for
I am a motivated and highly critical thinker with over a decade of experience in writing and editing. My journey has allowed me to excel in various roles, showcasing my flexibility as a team player. I thrive under pressure, consistently meeting strict deadlines while managing multiple projects simultaneously. My strong communication skills have been honed through years of reporting, complemented by a background in sales and the restaurant industry.
In my current role as a Senior Web Copywriter at SERP Matrix, I research and create engaging web content for law firms nationwide, employing digital marketing strategies to enhance SEO and improve organic rankings. My freelance writing experience has further broadened my expertise, allowing me to cover diverse topics such as health, technology, and social media. I take pride in my ability to adapt my writing style to meet the unique needs of each client.
Throughout my career, I have developed a keen eye for detail, ensuring that all content adheres to high standards of quality and accuracy. My experience as an Associate Editor has equipped me with the skills to edit and refine the work of fellow writers, ensuring that our content resonates with our audience. I am passionate about storytelling and committed to delivering compelling narratives that engage and inform.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Freelance Writer
WriterAccess
Jan 2013 - Present (12 years 6 months)
Wrote web content for clients relating to topics such as health, technology, law, and social media. This role involved extensive research and adapting writing style to various subjects.
Senior Web Copywriter
SERP Matrix
Jan 2019 - Present (6 years 6 months)
Researched and wrote web content for websites, newsletters, and blogs of law firms across the country. Digital marketing involved SEO to improve natural and organic rankings of clients' websites.
Senior Web Copywriter
Internet LAVA
Jan 2014 - Dec 2018 (4 years 11 months)
Researched and wrote web content for websites, newsletters, and blogs of law firms across the country. This position required a strong understanding of legal topics and effective communication.
Document Specialist
LegalZoom
Jan 2013 - Dec 2014 (1 year 11 months)
Reviewed and formatted a wide variety of legal documents for customers across the nation. Identified errors and assisted in quickly resolving order processing problems.
Associate Editor
Attorneys Online Inc.
Jan 2011 - Dec 2013 (2 years 11 months)
Researched and wrote content for websites, newsletters, and blogs of law firms across the country. Edited content of fellow writers, with position requiring knowledge of AP Style.
Contributing Writer
Sun-Times News Group
Jan 2007 - Dec 2010 (3 years 11 months)
Covered various high school sports events and compiled schedules of all local athletic teams. Researched and wrote updates on college athletic careers of local high school graduates.
Commentary Editor
The Columbia Chronicle
Jan 2005 - Dec 2006 (1 year 11 months)
Worked with senior editors on selecting, researching, writing, and editing the editorials of an award-winning weekly newspaper. Supervised and trained an assistant for the position.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Columbia College Chicago
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism
Studied journalism at Columbia College Chicago, focusing on writing and editing for various media. Gained experience in newspaper production and editorial processes.
Elgin Community College
Associate in Arts, Arts
Completed an Associate in Arts degree at Elgin Community College. Developed foundational academic skills and explored various subjects.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Website
derekstrum.comJob categories
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