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For everyone who needs good writing.
I'm a writer, editor & writing coach
based in California.
I help people who need good writing. I create strategic, high-quality content, strong copy and brand messaging that communicates truthfully with real audiences.
Through editing, I rework written pieces and iron out problems with a subtle and effective touch.
My mission is to enable all my clients to improve their own writing through coaching, memorable writing tips, and learning to capture audiences with authentic stories.
My vision is to enable all my clients to start or grow their business with my help to master brand strategy to captivate their audiences.
Every person and brand uses words to say who they are and what they do, but successful people and top brands use stories and strategy to build engagement and get remembered.
— Michaela Payne
Services
Writing
Copywriting, story brainstorming, interview-based content development.
Editing
Precision editing, subtle and effective edits, maintaining the author’s voice, improving writing to be clear and concise.
Writing Coaching
Analysis of writing habits, memorable writing tips for improvement, straightforward feedback with positive outlook for improvement.
Brand Strategy
Youth Mentorship
Client Outcomes
Development of brand messaging. Personal branding.
Recommendations for creative, effective marketing on diverse platforms. Social media content strategy.
Working with youth to bring out their voices and help craft effective college admissions materials, scholarship applications, first resumes and more.
Your transformed resume shows your skills and lands ideal job interviews. You'll see improved confidence in writing, creative thinking skills, expanded vocabulary and grammatical knowledge, increased speed when writing, overcoming writer’s block, polished work, and the ability to self-edit.
Credentials
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Customer service since 2008
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Writing coach & editor since 2016
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Marketing strategist & branding expert since 2018
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Co-Organizer of the San Francisco Zine Fest since 2018
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BA in Sociology, Mills College
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AA in Journalism, City College of San Francisco
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Certificate in Online Research, City College of San Francisco
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Editor-In-Chief of Etc. Magazine, 1.5 years
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Head Copy Editor of The Guardsman, 1.5 years
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Arts & Entertainment Editor of The Guardsman, 1.5 years
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Arts & Culture Editor of The Campanil, 1 year
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Reporter Intern at the San Francisco Examiner
Testimonials
Zara Ahmed
Academy D.E.I. Manager, BAYCAT
Services:
Resume revamp
LinkedIn edits
Cover letter strategy
Career goals
"I reached out to Michaela when I wasn't seeing results in my job search. She helped me re-think, re-organize and re-write my resume.
Through this process, I learned how to be more effective with my words, and I was able to think differently about my brand and what makes me unique. I am happy to say I currently work a position that suits me and my skill set well!"
Let's work together.
I'd love to hear about your next project. Please feel free to ask questions about my work, coaching style, how we'll work together and more.
Reach out at hello@WritingReferee.com, schedule a meeting with me in the Calendly widget, or use the contact form below!
The New York Times — "We asked college students how they navigate consent," contributor
Etc. Magazine — fall 2015 on Issuu, Editor-in-Chief