BRANDI
CALHOUN
Social Media Manager
Journalist
Editor
About Me
With extensive experience as a copyeditor, journalist and social media manager, I am seeking a new creative role in the media field. I am most eager to work with a company and/or brand that hosts an evolving environment that encourages learning and thinking outside the box.
I am ever amazed with language and simply how just one word can change the tone or context of one’s message. In today’s world, social media followers hang onto the words of influencers, who’s thoughts can quickly lead to change. I am intrigued by the power of social media and how journalism fits into this world of TikTok and Instagram, and I am constantly learning how to engage with the thought leaders of today.
Now, let me show you how I will be an asset to your team.
Skills
Radio Production
Radio Broadcasting TV Broadcasting
Video Editing Reporting
News Writing
AP Style Editing
Social Media
SEO
Event Planning
Management
Customer Service
Work Experience
USA Today/Gannett | 2015 - 22
My main job was to take reader submissions and news stories, edit them following AP style rules and turn them into articles for digital and print media. This includes making sure the digital versions are set up with the proper SEO and fact checking to make sure any news media is accurate. I met daily deadlines with error-free and comprehensive content. During my time with USA Today, I created training materials that are still in use and trained serveral new employees.
The Write Girl | 2015 - Today
My company encompasses all of my freelance ventures. For smaller clients, I create blog content and articles on several diverse subjects and use social media as a tool to promote articles and increase viewership. For larger clients, like Bike and Brew ATX and Austin Bike Tours and Rentals, I maintain each company's blogs and social media presence to their specifications and voice. I also create and distribute press releases to local media contacts. I've been able to write all kinds of content, from local news articles to listicles to research-based scientific content.
Clients include Rockabilly Brewing, Wide Open Country, Bike and Brew ATX, Austin Bike Tours and Rentals, Clapway, CareerAddict, PuckerMob and Texas Advertising.
Snackbox PR | 2017
I managed social media posts for the Snackbox brand and created blog content for Snackbox and clients such as Smoothie King, Sunwarrior and Jose Luis Salon in Austin. I also created and dispersed media pitches and followed up with journalists. I assisted in interviewing Smoothie King Challenge participants and created analytics regarding the information for a national Smoothie King campaign. This is where I learned to pitch client-centered content ideas to media outlets.
Jason and Deb - 101x | 2014
I edited audio for the station’s podcast using Adobe Audition and wrote blog posts that were uploaded daily. I helped facilitate games played on the show and researched who Deb would call for the "I Love You Calls" segment.
Calhoun & Co. | 2013-16
I created an event bartending business to help pay for college. I exceeded client expectations by going above and beyond in service with duties that included assisting in the entire planning process, assisting couples in making purchase orders and connecting them with other vendors. I managed sales, employees and social media while also managing schedules for events and bartenders. I was also hired on at the Austin Convention Center and Palmer Events Center to bartend larger events like ComicCon, the Armadillo Bazaar and the Rodeo Austin Gala during this time.
Carnio's Italian | 2006-16
I started with this company as a server in Midland, Texas. I transfered to Austin in 2008 and worked my way through the company. I was promoted to bartender early on and also worked at the company’s home office. There, I created and distributed training materials to streamline operations for over 60 locations. This included print materials for the restaurant as well as training videos, wallet cards for servers and bartenders and booklets for managers.
Education
2015 / MAY
Texas State University
I graduated magna cum laude with a major in electronic media and minor in sociology. I received those honors while working three jobs to put myself through school. I was a reporter for Bobcat Update and a reporter and social media manager for KTSW. I also took several communication electives, including advertising and public relations courses.
2013 / DEC
Austin Community College
I took my core classes at ACC before transferring to Texas State University. I studied American Sign Language and was able to use it regularly at my job. I also took a few arts courses in script writing and news writing.
2005 / MAY
Monahans High School
I was a journalist for the school newspaper, The Sandstorm. I was a varsity member of the swim team and participated in theater during all four years of school. I was involved in several productions for the school and the community, both on stage and behind the scenes.