Welcome to “A Day in The Life,” where members of PR Club’s Board of Directors interview some of the most interesting, multi-faceted, and innovative change-makers moving and shaking up the PR and communications industry!
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Alaina Pinto: a former TV news reporter who got her start at a local station in Burlington, Vermont, before heading to Boston to report and anchor for WHDH 7 News.
For the last ~5 years, she has made her mark as a full-time content creator, bringing the storytelling instincts she honed in journalism to her day-to-day life online – taking her followers along for every adventure in New England and beyond.
Below, Alaina shares what a typical day looks like for her: from early mornings editing, to travel all year long, and how she has fun along the way.
What does a typical day look like for you?
If I’m at home, my goal is to cross three things off my to-do list. I usually reward myself with a walk, a yoga class, or time in the gym. For me, going outside and doing yoga are two effective ways to prevent creative blocks and burnout.
And then I’m back to it – seeing if there’s anything else I can get done that isn’t overwhelming. There are some days when I’m on back-to-back Zoom calls, and other days when I’m planning a trip. And of course, sometimes I’m on an adventure!
When you’re not adventuring, how does your morning typically start before you jump into your to-do list?
I typically wake up at 6:30 am, I brush my teeth, drink water, take care of the cats, and then I am at my computer for editing, emailing, or planning future trips.
What is your favorite adventure in New England?
It depends. What month is it and who is with me?!
I go back to Martha’s Vineyard a lot; it’s quiet there. I also really love hut hiking in New Hampshire. I just got into that this year and can’t get enough of it. There’s nothing better than watching the sunset on top of a mountain and waking up on top of a mountain.
I agree, so serene! But I’m sure it’s not all sunsets and quiet moments for you. How do you measure success for your personal brand?
In terms of metrics and insights, definitely shares and saves. I believe both of those are “let’s take action” type of engagements and prove the viewer will go “do the thing.” However, I never allow myself to have “aha” moments, realizing my content is resonating with people. I work very hard to post something every day, which Meta rewards, but there’s always something else to reach for. That said, my biggest success is when someone comes up to me and tells me that they’ve been on an adventure I’ve recommended before, and had a great time.
After a busy day, how do you unwind?
I love making a healthy dinner while the music is on. Kitchen dancing and creative cooking are fun for me.
It’s important to have fun! What piece of advice do you share with those aspiring to be content creators?
Be consistent! It doesn’t have to be every day, but you should be posting consistently.
Pick a schedule and stick to it, whether it’s every Monday, every Wednesday, or every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Also, keep experimenting with your content.
On the note of having fun, I also would advise not to be afraid to be silly or authentic.
That’s great advice. Finally, what’s a major misconception about influencers that our readers should be aware of?
That being an influencer isn’t a real career path. It very much is. Content creators are just one-person production companies. In most cases, we are a more affordable way to market to a specific demographic vs. news/magazines/TV ads. Because not only are we the platform, but we are also the production company.
This blog was written by Abbey Clark, PR Club Board Member and Content Lead