Get ready to meet Rosie. She's a writer and a conversationalist.
What's your job title & how did you get where you are today?
I'm a writer and I knew that I wanted to do this work from the age of nine. Since then I have worked for newspapers, magazines and brands. I have written about everything from Obama's early campaign to the state of fashion (and how sustainability is the future) – finally settling on the freelance life about six years ago. In 2017 I started my content studio On the Collar, through which I get to work with amazing magazines like Russh, JANE and The Last Magazine. I also consult for lifestyle brands like Paspaley, Holly Ryan and Merivale. Interviewing is one of my favourite parts of the job, so sometimes I do this in front of a crowd, as moderator. And in my spare time, I am working on my book, which has been a longterm goal of mine.
Tell us about a day at work you'll never forget!
I met Béyonce on set one day, which was wild. But probably the most memorable for me was travelling to Harlem to see Barack Obama speak at The Apollo Theatre. This was right before the Democratic presidential primaries of 2008 and, to this day, I have never witnessed a more impressively eloquent orator.
What's your advice about growing a brand or a personal brand?
Stay true to your authentic voice and vision.
How do you prepare for negotiation conversations?
I draw upon a lot of research and professional experience, as well as the wisdom of my network. I am fortunate to be surrounded by a group of amazing women who also work for themselves and we often swap notes or share strategies. It is great to have the support of those that you can bounce ideas off. Above all, though, I try to meditate on the fact that these conversations are business, they are not personal.
Did you ever agree to something in a negotiation you now regret doing?
This has happened from time to time over the course of my freelance career. But I have always learned from those experiences, which has helped to hone my negotiating skills and strengthen my sense of self worth.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve experienced imposter syndrome, or not feeling good enough? How did you overcome this?
With the rise of social media, I feel like imposter syndrome has raised its head many times for me. The only way I really find that I can overcome this is by staying true to myself and my vision.
What one tip would you tell your younger self about negotiating?
Know your worth and don't be shy of putting a realistic value on your time. Because time is your most precious asset.
What’s your favourite quote?
"We tell ourselves stories in order to live." – Joan Didion