Janet Armstrong’s Post

Does anyone see my posts, or is the algorithm still punishing me for taking a break? Either way… If you hire freelance writers and have a minute, you could contribute to this survey! I think the results will be interesting. *nods respectfully to algorithm* *backs slowly towards the exit so as not to startle or upset said algorithm*

Spotted a sign as I was sitting beside my husband’s bed in the day surgery recovery ward. (He’s fine, thanks!) Here’s how the headline was laid out: Code Green Day Surgery Immediately my brain imagined Billie Joe Armstrong crooning over the sound system during an emergency. It’s a Boulevard of Broken Line Breaks situation, folks. A real Dookie. 🙃 But seriously, it’s actually a good reminder that small things can mess with the clarity of your message. ✌️

Okay, but notice how ChatGPT didn't DENY the allegation... #Hallucinations #Hic #FratGPT

Some companies think their content is wasted on people who will never become customers. But often those people will influence future customers. Grammarly sent this Spotify Wrapped-inspired message to my inbox this week. I appreciated it because I do think buttoned-up writing is B-O-R-I-N-G. It's my mission to make B2B content more conversational, interesting, human. (Thanks for noticing, Grammarly! ) Listen: I don't remember what chain of events led me to add Grammarly to my laptop. It follows me around and makes suggestions, some of which I accept. (Mostly spelling mistakes. When these fingers be flying some letters get drop kicked.) I don't see myself ever investing in the paid version of Grammarly. I've been honing my writing chops for many years. I'm skilled enough that I will take free grammar advice, but I don't want to pay for it. BUT! But. All these goodwill deposits from Grammarly make me feel warm and fuzzy towards the brand. I like their style. So, I would 100% recommend Grammarly to someone who is looking for a tool to help them communicate better. Their content is building affinity with me and I know lots of people who need help with writing.

Did I make New Year resolutions for myself? No. Did I set a 2024 intention word? Also no. I started making lifestyle changes in the back half of 2023 and I’m still working on them. Because it takes realistic expectations, consistency and time to see results. Is there a marketing lesson for companies somewhere in there? Maybe…

If you think the headlines in your content don’t really matter, spend some time in the comments sections of online recipes. What a ride. 🎢

I’m sitting here drinking my coffee in front of the fire and thinking about the time I was tasked with writing a holiday story about reindeer pee infused with psychadelics. What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever researched as a copywriter? PS: the reindeer pee story ultimately got shelved for a safer approach.

Imagine having all the words in the world to choose from when writing the hero headline for your website and still landing on: Your destination for innovation. (That's all. As you were.)

Brad Marley asked me thoughtful questions about how I became a writer, boring B2B writing vs storytelling, and the disruptive power of AI. Thanks for having me, Brad! (PS: You'll also find out which book I now recommend to every new mother.)

You know what’s ironic? When job descriptions for marketing and communications roles are an absolute wall of text. Not a bullet or subhead in sight. Just three-to-seven hefty-ass paragraphs to slog through. Oof. (PS: I’m not looking for a job. I’m still happy freelancing. I know someone awesome who is though. Hit me up if you come across any entry-level jobs in media or comms!)