In a previous lifetime, I managed a large network of freelance writers. So I was especially excited to read a fellow HubSpotter’s inside scoop on how she scaled our freelance network from 11 writers to 40. 🤯

And y’all. She’s very good. 

In today’s email: 

• 5 tips on building a freelance network that makes great content
• Jenna Kutcher’s tips on podcasting for business growth
• One writer’s advice for people of color looking to break into tech

🕵️ INSIDE SCOOP 

This week, the program manager of HubSpot’s freelance network, Kaitlin Milliken, shares the inside scoop on how she built a team that generates 800 pieces of content each year.  

How the HubSpot Blog built a freelance writing program that actually makes great content 

Our blogging freelance network was only 11 writers strong when Kaitlin Milliken joined HubSpot four years ago. She also inherited a standard operating procedure document that described how to write new posts and update existing ones. The rest was hers to build.

Today, Kaitlin has built a robust network of 40 freelance writers who produce around 800 blog posts for HubSpot every year — and each one has to meet the same editorial standards as our in-house content. These aren’t slapdash GPT posts.  

Freelance management isn’t a one-and-done process — take, for instance, Google’s E-E-A-T update last year, which places a high value on a writer’s personal experience.  

The update meant that HubSpot freelance writers needed additional training. It also forced Kaitlin to rethink how she assigned pieces, so she could capitalize on an individual writer’s experience and expertise.  

She’s got five takeaways you can apply to your own freelance networks, including advice on navigating the rise of AI.

✨ THIS WEEK'S MUST-READ 

My advice for people of color looking to break into tech

by Colby Boone 

Switching careers can be daunting for anyone, but the challenges can feel particularly overwhelming for people of color, who have been traditionally excluded from tech spaces.  

However, with the right mindset and resources, these challenges can transform into stepping-stones toward a fulfilling career in technology.

Here’s four common challenges people of color might face when breaking into tech:

1. Battling imposter syndrome
2. Upskilling through certifications and boot camps
3. Learning the language of the industry
4. Choosing a growth-oriented career path

Imposter syndrome is a pervasive issue that affects many professionals, and it can be especially prevalent among career-switchers of color in tech.

I vividly remember the day I completed my Certified ScrumMaster program. While the certification equipped me with a solid understanding of the product lifecycle and decision-making processes, I still felt an undercurrent of doubt about my capabilities.

It wasn't until I started applying my skills in real-world scenarios that my confidence began to build. The key was acknowledging my achievements and reminding myself that I belonged in the tech space.  

HubSpot contributor Colby Boone shares his experience with each of these challenges — and pro tips on how to overcome them.

📚 WHAT WE’RE READING 

• 🏀 Why the Adidas CEO and other leaders keep dunking on their own brands
• 🎙️ How podcasting helped Jenna Kutcher build a 7-figure business
• 📹 16 social media video examples to inspire your next campaign
• 💥 Google has a new nuclear partnership to power its AI ambitions
• 💼 How to advertise on LinkedIn

👀 ICYMI

Last week, my colleague Caroline Forsey talked to Radha Agrawal, who once led a 40K-person virtual dance party… for Oprah. 👉🏾 Read “How to turn virtual teams into tight-knit communities”

This week's email was brought to you by Laura M. Browning. Editing by Curt del Principe.

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