I’ve been putting words on the page since I was nine years old. (Yes, that’s me faking that I knew how to type…at age four).
My first publication was The Story of Roller and Skate – a captivating tale about the tumultuous friendship between two roller skates. I was so committed to my story, I illustrated and self-published it (on craft paper) so that others could learn from this modern fable about friendship.
Fast forward to a stint as the editor of my high school newspaper and four years of study and a degree in English Literature from Whitman College. Upon graduating from college, I moved to Japan where I worked as an English language teacher in public junior and senior high schools for three years.
When I returned to the United States, I worked for small businesses focused on international trade. Tasked with tracking shipments, and reconciling accounts (yes, that was a nightmare for this writer) I found that in my spare time I was creating employee handbooks, onboarding plans, and training materials for new hires. I realized that the people side of the business was where I belonged.
A Background in Human Resources
After completing a 9-month program at the University of Washington Extension, I earned a Training Specialist Certificate and was immediately hired by Starbucks as a human resources (HR) coordinator for the retail division. During the next 11 years, I enjoyed an amazing Starbucks journey, working under the umbrellas of HR and Law & Corporate Affairs. I was responsible for designing and developing training programs about management skills, leadership practices, staffing, hiring, ethics, compliance, and creating a great work environment. Twice during my Starbucks career, I was honored with the distinction of receiving a Spirit of Starbucks Award.
A Beautiful Blend
I left Starbucks to launch Liz Sheffield Copywriting because I had a desire to blend my skills as a writer and as an HR professional. I saw the need for a writer who understands the difference between employee relations and employee relationships…and how both impact the workplace. As a copywriter working for HR service providers I find great satisfaction in helping clients deliver clear messages through social media, case studies, white papers, training materials and other forms of copy.
A Balanced Life
I live near Seattle, Washington with my husband and our two sons. When I’m not writing, I enjoy spending time with my family – playing board games, going for family bike rides, and cheering on many sidelines.
