Meet the team: Sarah McGrath, junior content producer
We talk to Sarah about her love of books, the curiosity that drives the search for new ideas for our clients – and keeping content purposeful.
Tell us about yourself.
I work as a junior content producer at Speak Media. My role on a day-to-day basically involves everything from writing copy for our clients, to editing and scheduling social posts.
What differentiates Speak from other content agencies?
Speak’s newsroom service. Everyone on the team is really talented and has their own specialisms – which supports our journalistic approach by helping us create consistent, relevant and strategic content for our clients.
What has been your favourite project to work on so far?
I’ve really enjoyed working on Parkinson’s Life. Parkinson’s disease is a topic I didn’t know much about beforehand, so getting to do a lot of research has been rewarding. Hearing stories and experiences from across the world is really satisfying.
Tell us about your career so far.
I studied English Literature at the University of Winchester and after graduating in 2018, I continued to study for my master’s there. Afterwards, I worked as a bookseller and during lockdown I started seriously pursuing freelance writing. That then gave me the confidence to apply for content writing roles.
What content trends are on your radar at the moment?
The rise of TikTok. I definitely waste enough time on the app. It’s really interesting to see the influence it’s having on content creation – the platform was even linked to a rise in book sales during lockdown.
Is there a content trend you’re not a fan of?
Clickbait – especially when content is exaggerated for effect but has no substance. Content should always have a clear purpose behind it.
What motivates you to work hard?
Curiosity motivates me – finding things out and getting to research and learn what I can about any topic.
What is your proudest achievement?
The freelance work I did during lockdown because it required a lot of motivation and perseverance.
Tells us about your hobbies.
I love reading, working in a bookshop fuelled my book-buying addiction quite heavily. I’m also really interested in history – particularly the 16th and 19th century. I also enjoy analysing film and television – I’m really intrigued by different forms of storytelling and what it means to create a captivating story.
What does an ideal weekend look like for you?
Having a lie-in, then going out for a nice long walk somewhere like Hampstead Heath. Seeing friends and going to a museum somewhere. It would probably involve coffee and cake as well.
Quickfire Qs
Coffee order?
Flat white.
Favourite word?
Sincerity.
Favourite book?
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë.
Favourite film or thing on TV?
Succession.
Magazine subscription?
Variety Magazine.
Want to find out how to implement a best-in-class editorial strategy that connects your organisation to your always-on audience?
Contact Gabrielle Bridle from our client services team at gabriellebridle@speakmedia.co.uk or on LinkedIn.