Foundation Member Series: How Jil Hogan, a Journalist, Started her Freelancing Career

In this Foundation Member Series, we’re introducing you to some of the pioneers to walk through our virtual doors and discovering what the last year in business and their first year as an FG Member has looked like for them. Meet Jil, an experienced journalist, copywriter and content creator who loves nothing more than telling great stories.

Jil Hogan has worked for Fairfax Media for five years as a reporter, columnist, digital producer and magazine editor at The Canberra Times, and also wrote for publications including Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times, Newcastle Herald, and more. She has completed her Masters in Journalism at Queensland University of Technology in 2010 and worked for a range of media outlets all across Australia. She was also the Canberra Editor for Good Food, one of Australia’s leading sources for independent restaurant reviews and the latest in eating out and eating in. In addition to that, Jil was a restaurant reviewer for the National Good Food Guide.

“So much information that you’ll learn about how you could actually get yourself set up from the beginning which.. trust me could save you a lot of time and stress down the track. I think that a Freelancing Gems membership is one of the best things that you could get yourself.” – Jil Hogan

What led you to join Freelancing Gems? 

I’d just moved to Brisbane when Freelancing Gems launched, and didn’t have much of a network – professional or personal – up here, so I joined a few freelancing and small business networking groups to try and meet some others in the same boat, and get support to keep growing my business.

What has being part of Freelancing Gems brought to your life?

I’ve met some lovely people through FG, including someone who is now a good friend. Initially, it was also a good source of roles and I found two great clients in the first few months of my membership, and I still work with both on occasion.

How have those things impacted your life, family, business?

The people I’ve met have helped me feel really welcome in the Brisbane community.

What sort of roles are you interested in?

Freelance and projects.

What are you seeking at this stage in your career?

Restructuring things and who I work with, so I can earn the same amount, but work less hours (ideally no more night or weekend work!)

What is one word you would use to describe FG?

Colourful!

What would you say to another woman thinking about joining?

If you’re just starting your own business or dabbling with a side hustle, Freelancing Gems is a great community to build your network, meet others in a similar situation, and learn how to set up your business properly for now and the future.

Jil worked with a wide range of businesses on their content needs, from writing articles, blog posts and press releases to marketing content, SEO copywriting, social media, email marketing, annual reports, award submissions and more. She knows what makes people tick, click, and read from almost a decade working in the media.

Let Jil create content for you and tell stories about your business to engage more customers/users. You can connect with her on the Gem Directory. Not a member? Join now.