By Cheryl D'Mello

 

   Those who attended the panel discussion held at the Cuyahoga County Public Library - Beachwood Branch on July 28, came away with a positive feeling that self-publishing might be the best way to get their books out there.

   The panelists were Peter Jedick, an SPJ board member who has self-published several print and e-books, and Ron and Joanne Humphrey, owners of Windjammer Adventure Publishing in Chagrin Falls who publish and edit books. Ron served as the head of the Digital Publishing/Printing Major at Tri-C for 27 years. Joanne is a writer and editor.

   All three shared their personal experiences with writing, self-publishing, and marketing.

   Their words of advice:

   Unless your name is Britney Spears, it might be difficult to find a major publisher. Rick Porrello's "To Kill an Irishman" was initially self-published and later picked up by Simon & Schuster, and later was made into a movie.   

   In self-publishing, the authors make their own deals - the author is the publisher. It is a business so the authors must be careful. People can make more money by self-publishing and selling their works on Amazon.com or personal websites than going through a publisher. Start with self-publishing a minimum of 400 copies, urged Peter who is also a freelance writer.

   Self-publishing allows people to develop a prototype and see how it will work for them.

   The industry has changed with many national booksellers going out of business. Digital publishing is fast evolving and is less costly, so be ready to embrace the changes in the world of publishing.

   Don't pay an agent to sell your book to a publisher. If an agent likes your book, he won't ask for money.

nIt's hard to get anybody to read fiction. It's a lot easier to sell, and get people to read non fiction.

   Marketing is important. Be creative, use social media. Sending copies of your books to newspapers or appearing on a television show can get you free publicity, the panelists said.

   Copyright your book, even if only the first chapter is complete, before talking to anyone about it. Do it yourself for about $35 through www.copyright.gov. Ideas and titles cannot be copyrighted.

   Before self-publishing, think about how much money you are prepared to lose. You have to have an idea why people are going to buy your book. Know your market. Go for that niche - whether it is sports or history.

   And last but not the least, believe in yourself.

This event, organized by SPJ's Cleveland chapter, was attended by 20 people.

   For more details, contact the Humphreys at windjammerpub@mac.com.

(D'Mello is the first vice president and program chair.)

 

 

Thanks to Kelly Blazek for her dedication and commitment in seeking out many of the jobs posted below. To receive her full newsletter (We only excerpt media-related jobs.) see the separate box headlined Cleveland Job Bank below. 

PRODUCTION MANAGER - GREAT LAKES PUBLISHING
Posted: 07.11.11
Great Lakes Publishing Co., publisher of Cleveland Magazine, Inside Business and Ohio Magazine, seeks a Production Manager. The Production Manager will work closely with the Publisher, Director of Production and Art Director in a fast-paced production environment to produce Cleveland Magazine, Inside Business and their Custom products. The Production Manager will handle the initial layout, ad production and ripped files. Must have strong technical, written & oral communication skills, along with the ability to multi-task and meet multiple deadlines. Candidate will have a fluent working knowledge of Print Production, CS4, high quality 4C magazine ad design and be Mac savvy. QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Knowledge of Adobe CS4 and Acrobat 9.0 2. Knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and Freehand 3. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite 4. Bachelors Degree with a major in Communication Design or related field 5. At least 3 years hands on production experience required Please send cover letter, salary requirements and resume to zemanek@glpublishing.com please include "Production Manager" in the subject line.

MORNING MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST - WEWS CHANNEL 5
Requisition Number: 3830
Join Cleveland's premier television station, WEWS NewsChannel 5, an ABC affiliate. We are seeking an innovative, dynamic Morning Multimedia Journalist.
The Morning Multimedia Journalist is responsible for researching, writing, capturing visual content and editing general assignment stories for multiple platforms. Additional duties include:
· Receives assignment or evaluates news leads and news tips to develop story ideas.
· Gathers and verifies factual information regarding stories through interview, observation, and research.
· Organizes material, determines slant or emphasis, and writes story according to prescribed editorial style and format standards.
· Shoots video and still photos to illustrate stories.
· Edits, or assists in editing, videos for all multimedia platforms.
· Appears on television program when conducting taped interview or narration
· Gives live reports from site of event or mobile broadcast unit.
· Write and produce quality news stories for multiple media platforms.
· Work cooperatively with photographer assigned to story, if one is assigned.
· Assist news producer in preparing newscast.
· Assist online staff in preparing for multi media stories.
· Report, write, capture visual content, edit and produce stories for multiple platforms on deadline, such as Internet and digital channels.
· Knowledge and demonstration of editorial judgment, journalistic ethics and libel laws
Requirements of this position include:
· Computer literacy required, including newsroom computer systems. Videography and non-linear editing experience preferred.
· Knowledge of broadcast quality camera equipment.
· Edit video on Final Cut Pro editing systems, or similar equipment.
· Strong broadcast and AP style writing skills.
· Proficient at posting content to various websites.
· Self-motivated and able to work in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment.
· Valid Driver's License, good driving record and provide proof of insurability with company required insurance limits.
Apply online here.

MORNING ANCHOR - WEWS CHANNEL 5
Requisition Number: 3832
WEWS NewsChannel 5, an ABC affliate, is seeking innovative, energetic and dynamic Morning Anchor Multimedia Journalist. The Morning Anchor MMJ is responsible for preparing and delivering news reports for morning newscasts as well as shooting, writing, editing their own researched stories.  

Additional duties include:
· Anchor newscasts; clearly and concisely report information; perform impromptu conversation as necessary;
· Gather and write news content for multiple platforms, including posting stories on newsnet5.com;
· Co-anchor the morning newscasts;
· Report live on location from various news events;
· Connect on camera with a sense of urgency;
· Research and develop news stories, as well as writing, shooting, and editing the stories;
· Perform various community service activities for station, including performing as master of ceremonies for public service events and as host/hostess for station events;
· Periodically required to drive personal or company vehicle to cover various assignments;
· Demonstrate strong news judgment, knowledge of journalistic ethics, libel law and organizational skills;
· Work productively under intense pressure and deadlines.

REQUIREMENTS:
· Bachelor's degree in Journalism or Communications or related field;
· At least five+ years experience as a Multimedia Journalist and anchor;
· Computer literacy required, including newsroom computer systems (i.e., iNews). Videography and non-linear editing experience preferred;
· Must be an excellent communicator and storyteller (as evidenced by your portfolio of work);
· Must possess keen sense of logistics and ability to work well under intense pressure;
· Must possess excellent creative and editorial judgment;
· Strong AP and broadcast style writing skills;
· Knowledge of broadcast quality camera equipment;
· Flexible work hours required;
· Valid driver's license with no more than four (4) points in the past 36 months, and proof of insurability (liability limits of $100,000 per person/$300,00 per accident/$50,000 property as defined by station policy)
Apply online here.

ASSIGNMENT EDITOR/PRODUCER - WOIO TV
Details: WOIO-TV has an immediate opening for a full-time Assignment Editor/Associate Producer. Successful candidate will be expected to generate story ideas, monitor news wires and radios, establish and maintain sources, conduct story research, keep files and records of upcoming news events, direct field crews to gather and produce content, ensure stories as decided by news management are covered, use personal discretion and initiative to solve problems and make story and coverage decision as events warrant, and assist producers in writing and preparing news content. Also expected to fill-in as line producer for various newscasts which requires the ability to select stories, prepare a rundown, back-time the live broadcast from the control room, ensure editorial integrity and adhere to the guidelines and responsibilities established by the News Content Director, and complete other tasks as assigned by management. Training in the basic rules of journalism and news gathering required, college degree in journalism preferred, ability to research news stories and excellent writing and story-telling skills necessary. Ability to work well under pressure and communicate and get along with others required, and knowledge of Cleveland area preferred. Send resume to; WOIO/WUAB, atten: Meg Green 1717 E. 12th Street, Cleveland, OH 44114 or email mgreen@woio.com. No phone calls please.    

GRAPHIC DESIGNER - - NEO MEDICAL UNIVERSITY (NEOMED)

Reports to Director, Public Relations & Marketing. Oversees all graphic design and brand elements to enhance the image and reputation of the University. Designs and produces finished artwork, and tracks marketing and promotional communications materials for external and internal production. Ensures and monitors design quality in accordance with University standards, guidelines and policies.

PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

·Completes graphic design work for all University departments including but not limited to:

·NEOMED magazines and annual reports

·Invitations, posters, flyers, advertisements, programs

·Brochures, newsletters (for deans and departments)

·Admissions materials (viewbooks, postcards, etc.)

·Website graphics

·Video graphics

·Clothing designs

·Logos

· Serves as consultant to University departments on collateral needs and provides excellent customer service

· Serves as brand manager to ensure that all items meet University graphic and style standards

· Leads and develops creative direction for University collateral/web/advertising/

video in coordination with Director of Public Relations and Marketing

· Helps to direct photo shoots with leased photographers to ensure photos meet design needs

· Produces graphics for use in print, environmental, video, website and social media sites

· Works with on-campus print shop and local printers to coordinate campus printing/mailing needs

· Takes photography with department camera as needed and purchases stock photography when applicable

· Represents the Office of Public Relations & Marketing on internal and external committees, as appropriate.

· Stays abreast on technology and interactive marketing trends.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Degrees: Degree in communications, graphic design or related field required.

Experience: Two to five years experience in graphic design for print and digital required; health care or higher education experience preferred. Proficient in PC environment and Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and Microsoft Office. Experience in Flash a plus.

Key Skills and Personal Characteristics:

· Solid project management skills

· Proven ability to handle pressure, work with deadlines, and set priorities

· Self-motivated and creative

· Excellent interpersonal and customer-service skills

· Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information

Apply online here.  

GRAPHIC ARTIST - WOIO TV
Details: WOIO-TV, in Cleveland OH, is searching for an experienced Graphic Artist. Must have extensive knowledge using the Adobe Creative Suite including After Effects and Photoshop. Must be experienced with both Mac and PC platforms, and design and build 2D and 3D animations quickly for on-air use the same day they are assigned. Must be able to handle a high volume of work and meet tight deadlines. Send resume to Rob Boenau, Marketing Director, WOIO/WUAB, 1717 E. 12th Street, Cleveland, OH 44114 or email rboenau@woio.com  No phone calls please. 

MARKETING SALES ASSOCIATE - LATINOCLEVELAND MEDIA GROUP

Focuses on the development and growth of the LatinoCleveland print and Digital Media Outlets and Advertising Services targeting the fastest growing demographic in Northeast Ohio, generates sales building community relationships between the LatinoCleveland Media Group and local businesses and nonprofits. This position offers:

-Time Flexibility

-30% of sales commission and Bonus Opportunities

-One-on-One training

Job Requirements

·History of carrying a sales quota - direct and/or indirect

·Spanish - English Bilingual (preferable)

·Sales experience of 2-3 years.

·MS Office proficiency

·Effective communication and interpersonal skills

·High energy and motivation.

To apply please send your resume and contact information to jobs@latinocleveland.com  

 

COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR (PART-TIME) - NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL LATIN SCHOOL

Notre Dame Cathedral Latin School (NDCL) in Geauga County, a Catholic, coeducational college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame, seeks an energetic and articulate Communications Coordinator to share NDCL's mission with internal and external constituencies.

Major responsibilities include identifying and brokering stories, creation and distribution of a variety of marketing collateral including press releases and web content and actively building and maintaining relationships with local media representatives. The preferred candidate will have a minimum of 5 years professional experience with strong and versatile communication skills and the ability to manage projects and budget time. A working knowledge of social media, emerging technologies and applicable software (Microsoft Office, Publisher, Adobe) are necessary proficiencies while graphic design and photography skills are considered a plus. A bachelor's degree is required.

Please email resume with cover letter to Sister Jacquelyn Gusdane at  

 jacquelyn.gusdane@ndcl.org.

 

 

CONTENT ASSOCIATE - ADVANSTAR
We are currently seeking a Content Associate to create and edit content for healthcare professionals, to establish partnerships with trusted sources to acquire content, and to work effectively with the digital team to develop products and repurpose existing content for digital distribution (Web, e-mail, social media, video & audio, mobile, etc). Responsibilities include conceptualizing and executing compelling, interactive platform-agnostic content in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment.
Requirements
The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, or English and one to two plus years of experience; a portfolio of published/posted business or health-related content (preferably for B-to-B communications); familiarity with digital distribution channels and SEO; proficiency in Mac, Microsoft Word, Dreamweaver, and Final Cut Pro; and strong editing, writing, communication, technical, and organizational skills.
Interested candidates should submit resume with salary history and three samples from their portfolio.
Apply online here. 

CONTENT STRATEGIST/LONG FORM COPYWRITER - ROSETTA
Req. # : 1547 Job Code 222
Job Description Rosetta is looking for a Content Strategist to join their Downtown, Cleveland office! Responsibilities:
Assessing content from a usability, brand, editorial and structural point of view
Creating brand and editorial strategies and help the client develop brand voice
Collaborate with creative team members to determine the conceptual and copy direction of branding and advertising initiatives
Interact with project teams to understand business objectives and audience demographics
Define recommendations and set the strategy for all content assets, from descriptive content, information architecture, nomenclature, headlines, visuals, rich media, presentation materials to SEO and meta data guidance
Assess globalization and localization considerations
Create content inventories to catalog and organize web site content
Create and manage content matrices for the assignment and tracking of new content
Develop a competitive site analysis/gap analysis
Create taxonomy/nomenclature lists and definitions
Develop, maintain and enforce editorial style guidelines
Define the editorial work flow for client projects
Recommend and create governance plans and CMS software as well as advise clients on who to best align resources with content development and management plans
Demonstrate high quality standards across all deliverables
Key deliverables include:
Content inventories and assessments, Editorial strategies, Gap assessments, Style guides, Copywriting, Publishing workflows, Metadata schemas, Work break down structures and project estimates, Content Matrix, Analytics review and recommendations
Requirements:
A degree in English, Journalism, Communications or a related field
4+ years in an advertising or marketing agency (traditional or interactive) preferred
Substantial experience in developing interactive content, managing online content strategy for various types of websites, mobile applications and tablets, as well as other digital and offline media platforms
Ability to actively contribute to strategic brainstorming, campaign development, creative brief development and creative execution
Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and effectively juggle different writing demands
Understanding of graphic design and an appreciation of the interplay between textual and visual elements
Experience concepting and writing for traditional media including broadcast print and other collateral as well as internal supporting documents such as statements of work, marketing plans and
presentations
A strong understanding of Web trends and technologies, marketing and advertising principles
Exceptional writing skills and attention to detail, Strong leadership and collaboration skills
Apply online here.