Knitty/Knittyspin requires a Virtual Assistant to organize her professional communications and ensure no balls get dropped. Note that the majority of this position will require communication by email, rather than phone or webchat.
Tasks include:
- daily monitoring of incoming email
- creation of 1 daily summary email to Editor, abbreviated so that Editor can assess and answer all questions efficiently
- responding professionally and competently on Editor's behalf to each original email based on Editor's responses to daily summary email
- bringing urgent issues to Editor's attention in a timely manner
- maintaining online calendar (Google Calendar) for editorial staff
- keeping Editor on track, so deadlines are not missed
- create/tidy Excel spreadsheet of to-be-published submissions
- contact those whose products/services are reviewed in Cool Stuff after each issue, providing link to their review
- make list of things to update on the site: i.e. ad calendar/signup, call for submissions, etc
- participate in quarterly online editorial meetings via Google Hangouts; take notes as directed and incorporate in calendar
- liaise with Editor, designer and yarn companies to order yarn for designer (requested by email); follow up to ensure designer has received yarn
- collecting and writing one blog post each week (posted on Wednesday morning, 9:30 am New York City time zone) with news of interest to readers of the magazine
- other tasks as assigned and agreed upon
Key skills required:
- solid understanding of the craft of knitting and the materials used in this craft
- superior written and spoken English skills
- ability to communicate clearly and politely, upholding the reputation of this Editor and her magazine
- competence in excel/numbers, word/pages, Dropbox, email
- attention to detail
- ability to work independently after initial training period
- responsible, able to meet deadlines
- positive attitude and creative spirit
The Editor is a human being and knows that anyone working for her is human, too. She doesn't yell. She is an encouraging, positive employer who works best with independent and self-directed people. The magazine is poised for growth at this time, and someone who can perform the duties listed to the Editor's satisfaction (or better) may find themselves an essential, long-term part of the editorial staff.
