We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rachel Alger. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rachel below.
Hi Rachel , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
I didn’t set out to become a freelance writer and content strategist—I fell into it after graduate school. The first opportunities came from places like Livestrong, Glossier, POPSUGAR, and various startups that needed a writer but didn’t necessarily know what kind. So I became all of them. I wrote grants, blogs, editorial articles, strategy, books, social content—anything that needed words, really.
Over time, that flexibility became my advantage. I didn’t just write; I shaped narratives, developed marketing strategies, and eventually took on roles as a head writer and content strategist. I wasn’t just filling gaps—I was building something from the ground up within teams, sometimes as the only person in my role or department.
Being the only one in the room who did it all set me apart. It forced me to adapt, to see the bigger picture, and to communicate in a way that made my work indispensable. I learned to trust my instincts, to advocate for ideas even when no one else fully understood them yet, and to trust myself.
That’s the thing about being the only one in the room—it can be isolating, but it can also be an opportunity. You learn to make your presence matter and how to make an impact.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a writer and content strategist who has spent the past decade helping brands shape their narratives in ways that resonate. My work spans strategy, editorial writing, PR, and marketing, and I specialize in translating complex ideas into clear, compelling messaging.
What excites me most about my work is that I don’t just write—I help build. Whether it’s crafting the voice of a growing brand, refining a company’s positioning, or developing thought leadership pieces that elevate industry experts, I approach every project with the goal of making an impact. With a background rooted in research, I bring depth to everything I create.
I know my leadership looks like support. I am, by nature, a support person. My favorite thing in the world is watching brands and founders grow. I’m rarely seen out front, and that’s intentional. My ability to get to the core of what people need—and to write for them, as them—sets me apart in a crowded space.
Right now, I’m focused on projects that blend story with strategy, from rebranding initiatives to campaigns that help businesses stand out. I work with brands to refine their messaging and establish a strong, authentic presence in their niche.
For those looking to create something meaningful—whether it’s a brand story, a media strategy, or a compelling piece of content—I’m always open to collaborations that align with purpose and vision.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three qualities have been most impactful in my journey: adaptability, strategic thinking, and being a futurist.
1. Adaptability – I never set out to do exactly what I do now. My career evolved because I stayed open to opportunities and learned as I went. When I started freelancing, I took on everything from grant writing to editorial work to marketing. That flexibility not only kept me working but helped me develop a skill set that made me invaluable to brands and businesses. For those early in their career, my advice is to say yes to learning. The more adaptable you are, the more opportunities will come your way.
2. Strategic Thinking – Writing is one thing, but understanding how messaging fits into a bigger picture is what makes it effective. Over time, I learned to think beyond words—to consider audience psychology, brand positioning, and the long-term goals behind every piece of content. If you’re just starting out, focus on learning the ‘why’ behind the work you do. Read beyond your field, study what makes messaging resonate, and always consider the impact of what you create.
3. Being a Futurist – If it’s a trend, it’s already too late. I’ve built my career on seeing what’s coming before everyone else does. Whether it’s shifts in marketing, the rise of AI, or the changing ways people consume content, staying ahead of what’s next has been one of my biggest advantages. For those early in their career, the best thing you can do is develop a deep curiosity about the future. Read widely, think critically, and ask, What’s the next problem no one sees coming yet? The people who anticipate change—not just react to it—are the ones who lead.
My biggest piece of advice is this: Be a student of everything. Pay attention, ask questions, and learn to see the connections between seemingly unrelated things. The ability to think critically and adapt will take you further than any single job title ever will.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who values strategy and long-term impact over fleeting trends. They’re brand leaders with a strong vision who need the right words and strategy to bring it to life. They understand that content isn’t just about promotion—it’s about connection, positioning, and trust.
What makes them ideal is their willingness to invest in quality. They recognize that strong messaging isn’t just a ‘nice to have’—it’s a business asset. They trust my expertise, give me the space to do what I do best, and see me as a partner in their success.
I work best with clients who are building something meaningful. Whether it’s a growing brand, a rebrand, or thought leadership, my work resonates when there’s depth and purpose behind it. I believe content should drive real results, not just engagement for engagement’s sake. When strategy and creativity align, that’s when the magic happens. Every piece of content, every campaign, and every message should move the business forward in a meaningful way. If a client shares that mindset—if they care about making an impact and standing out for the right reasons—then we’re the perfect fit, and I can’t wait to help bring their vision to life!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rachelalger.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hazeleleanor
- Other: https://muckrack.com/rachelalger
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