Following is a Q&A with freelance writer Jennifer L.W. Fink:
By Greg Shemitz
Q: What’s your background as a journalist? What media outlets do you write for?
A: As a journalist specializing in healthcare and parenting, I draw upon my other professional experiences — 10 years in clinical practice as a registered nurse, and eight years (and counting!) as a parent. I began writing for nursing journals in 1997 and have expanded into newspapers, consumer magazines and healthcare marketing materials. I’ve written for American Baby, ePregnancy, Ladies’ Home Journal, RN and Nursing 2005, among others.
Q: What types of stories are most likely to pique your interest? What kind of material should public relations people be on the lookout for?
A: I’m particularly interested in women’s health issues and parenting. I have a personal passion for pregnancy and childbirth, and am very interested in midwifery care and alternative birth practices. I also enjoy learning and writing about low-tech, high-touch parenting techniques (breastfeeding, attachment parenting, co-sleeping, babywearing, etc.) and education.
Cancer, especially breast and ovarian cancer, is another area of interest. Recent research findings, treatment innovations, and anything related to the psychosocial impact of cancer on patients and their families will catch my attention.
Of course, as a former nurse, I’m always interested in covering nursing-related news and research.
Q: What recent projects have given you the most satisfaction or are most reflective of your work?
A: “Inductions on the Rise,†published in the August 2004 issue of American Baby, is a great example of my work. It covers an emerging health trend (the increasing number of labor inductions), while outlining the procedure’s benefits and risks. It educates and informs consumers, allowing them to make decisions that fit their lifestyle and family.
“Behind the Scenes at a Birthing Center,†also published in American Baby (April 2005) and reprinted online, is another example. This piece begins with my own experience, but moves beyond the first-person to illustrate an innovative and alternative birth practice.
Both articles showcase my desire to provide consumers with information and alternatives.
Q: What industry publications, Web sites and services do you refer to?
A: Medscape Medpulse keeps me updated and informed. I also refer to nursing journals such as RN and Nursing 2006, as well as Psychological Science. Background information is obtained from the CDC, NIH Web sites, specialty organizations (ACOG, ACNM, etc.) and hospital Web sites.
Q: What do you like/dislike about dealing with PR people? Any tips you’d like to give them?
A: I love it when PR people can link me to sources that have just the expertise I need. I also love getting “tips†— e-mails and updates on sources or innovations in my area of interest. Often, PR people are the link between the news and the reporter, and are therefore invaluable.
That said, I much prefer to hear about sources and news that are truly relevant. If I send out a request, don’t tell me how wonderful your client is if they’ve never actually dealt with the problem in question. Be truthful and honest about your client’s area of expertise.
Q: How and when do you prefer to be contacted?
A: E-mail is almost always the best way to reach me. My schedule is in constant flux, so managing contacts via e-mail allows me to control my time and productivity. I check my account numerous times daily, and we can always follow-up by phone if necessary.
Q: What’s the best way to send news releases to you? Mail, e-mail or fax?
A: E-mail is preferred.
Q: Do you accept photos/graphics/artwork? If so, how do you want to receive them? Any specific formatting requirements?
A: I would prefer not to receive photos/graphics/artwork with first contact. If we decide it’s something necessary for the article or assignment, we’ll discuss formatting requirements at that time.
Reach Jennifer at fink_j@hotmail.com.