MAJ Archives

A journalist's profile, stories and career in the field of journalism. Know a journalist who should be profiled here? Send an e-mail to Janet E. Bardon

December, 2003
Rita Monaco-Mancini
Freelance Journalist and
Registered Accountant
Montreal, Quebec

My career as a journalist started by accident in 1999.

Up to that point, I earned my keep as an income tax and small business advisor. This work helped me realize how little the middle class, single parent families, and the average 'joe' knew about finances. The hardest working people in our society didn't know who to turn to for information or what questions to ask. Few of them had the time or money to consult a professional.

This is what gave me the incentive to approach the Montreal Gazette's business editor, David Yates, with an idea. My proposal to him was to write a column whose sole purpose would be to inform the common man and give small business owners tips to go beyond merely keeping their head above water.

Once Mr. Yates and I met and I prepared 4 sample stories, I was asked to produce weekly articles on the subject. The column ran for two and a half years and was reprinted in over a dozen newspapers across the country. It also became required reading in countless high schools and colleges.

Producing a 600 to 800 column every week (on top of keeping my accounting office rolling) taught me discipline and opened my eyes to how tough the writing profession really was. Nevertheless, I was smitten by the art of writing. When the stint was over I heeded Mr. Yates final words of wisdom. He encouraged me to take more writing and journalism classes and read, read, read. And that I did.

I admire and try to emulate other journalists who write with a definite purpose in mind: to inform, to teach, to enlighten.

Research and accurate reporting is utmost importance. Luckily, I discovered Media Link. It has made my life much easier because the sources I am put into contact with are as eager to get a message too. They fill in the blanks and provide me with many story ideas.

Rarely, a fellow accountant or tax advisor will contact me to complain about my work. A reader will have brought him one of my articles to ask they they hadn't been told about a deduction or some other personal finance issue. The accountant may be upset with the extra work I give him, be it indirectly, but I don't mind. It means my message is getting through to the people who need it most.

Journalism may be a tough job, but believe me, it is a most satisfying profession.