Madam Monday - Who is Erica Jones?
I reserve Mondays to recognize jet-setting women who are making great strides in their communities. I call these features "Madam Mondays!"
For more information about Ms. Jones' work visit: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/erica-jones/32/831/515
Whether it's via your twitter timeline, cable networking, or the morning paper, the news is a constant force that impacts everyone's life. Meet one of the women behind this never-resting force.
This Monday we ask,
WHO IS ERICA JONES?
Family. Writing, Travel.
These words sum up the passions of this Richmond, Virginia native; alum of Hampton University; and Horror Movie Addict.
Ms. Jones starts her day at 5 a.m., composing articles of her own and from reporters. She then publishes these works on NBC4 Washington's website, where she works as the morning Digital Content Producer. This was an accomplishment she was not expecting achieve so soon in life. "Moving through media markets is hard. Working and getting into the bigger markets can take a very long time. Coming out of college, my only goal - outside of working in my field - was to be in D.C. by the time I was 30. I definitely didn't expect it to happen this quickly."
For more information about Ms. Jones' work visit: NBCWashington.Com/ChangingMinds
In the world of journalism, Ms. Jones believes that persistence is key!
If someone tells you no, come back next year and try again.
"I didn't follow the traditional route of staying somewhere for a couple of years before trying to move on to somewhere else. For me, it was about not missing out on an opportunity that may have not been there in a few years. If you feel you're qualified, go for it."
Although grateful for her career, Ms. Jones is forever attempting to achieve the "Work-Life" balance. In her quest, she seeks out her colleagues and superiors for advice on how to conquer this equilibrium.
"The schedules broadcast journalists have are notoriously not friendly to having a social life. So, sometimes I have to make sacrifices when it comes to 'hanging out.' I just try to make the weekends count as often as possible."
Ms. Jones believes that women should set their own standards in a world that is so hell-bent on making women conform.
For more information about Ms. Jones' work visit: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/erica-jones/32/831/515
I think women should focus on what 'it all' is to them, and not what having it all is according to society's definition. Often, as women, we're made to feel that a career is not enough; that you have to have a husband or a family to be complete. But if you're happy and feel fulfilled in this moment, to me, you have it all."
When she isn't creating stories, she still uses her composing powers for good. Ms. Jones is currently working with NBCWashington to bring awareness to mental health issues.
"After noticing that mental health was at the crux of many of the stories we cover, the station began a year-long campaign to help bring awareness and shine a light on mental health. I'm running the digital portion of the campaign, so I work on special web exclusives and other interactive ways to highlight an issue that so many deal with."
To check out the campaign and peek into a token Ms. Jones' vocational universe, visit NBCWashington.Com/ChangingMinds today!
