If you’re a writer keen on a fresh start in your career, you may be here trying to figure out what 2X is all about. I was in your shoes not too long ago, wondering if I’d fit in at 2X. Let me walk you through my journey so far.
To B2B or Not to B2B—That Was My Question
Previously, I had written B2C-skewed content for various industries as a freelancer and a full-timer. Writing about topics I enjoyed was fun at first, but I found little fulfillment beyond that. Chasing deadlines got old fast, and having my creativity stifled was demotivating. Toxicity and work bleeding into my personal life were the final nails in the coffin. Before long, I felt burned out. I started to believe that finding a fulfilling job with work-life balance was a myth. Until 2X happened.
I’ll admit, I didn’t think 2X was for me at first—only because I’d never written B2B content. I figured I was going in with a handicap, and there’d be no way B2B professionals would even consider my portfolio relevant. Once I got over my little internal battle with the beast that is impostor syndrome, I gave it a go. And I’m so glad I did. Here are three ways my 2X experience has positively impacted me.
1. A Socially Distant Start with Zero Hiccups
As one of many 2X-ers who joined the company amid COVID-19 restrictions, I’ve not worked from the office. It was a first for me, starting a new job at home. It alleviated my concerns about having to go into the office during a pandemic, and I’m grateful that 2X prioritized the health and safety of its people first, even before the lockdown rules became stricter.
With offices in Malaysia pivoting to remote work as COVID-19 cases increased, I expected teething problems in my first few weeks at 2X. I soon learned that 2X was well-prepared for remote work, relying on digital tools to keep everything up and running. On top of this, employees may request a chair, table, footrest, external monitor, or keyboard to facilitate an ergonomically sound workstation at home. Despite all the pandemic-related uncertainties, it was business as usual for 2X, a welcome calm from the storm.
2. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
One of the first things I discovered about 2X was that I wouldn’t be the sole writer. That had been the case in my previous jobs, and I was accustomed to being the lone ranger. 2X has a big team of writers, a league of creative storytellers who have come from various writing-related careers. It certainly makes for a pool of diverse talents to glean knowledge from, and there’s never a dull moment. Or a lack of impromptu pun battles.
Having the mentorship of seniors proved comforting in my first month, because I didn’t feel like I was being prodded off the proverbial plank into shark-infested waters. Learning was the primary plan; everything from essential reading to training modules was available. Frequent check-ins with my mentor, Senior Writer Joy Yong and Content Strategy Principal Jennifer Wang gave me a better sense of my role and responsibilities, providing an avenue for me to obtain constructive feedback and ask questions. If I was ever unclear, guidance was a chat or a call away. After a month of training, I was ready to hit the ground running.
Another great thing about 2X is that there is no gatekeeping of knowledge; continuous learning is a driving force of this company. We’re encouraged to ask questions, which fosters a collaborative way of working. Everyone is willing to lend a helping hand and share their wisdom. I am constantly learning the nuances of B2B writing, and I have ample time for research, which helps me craft more impactful pieces. Beyond the realm of writers, 2X also has experts in different roles who can offer thoughtful data-driven advice that writers will find helpful.
3. Work-Life Balance Is a Reality
Yes, this is real life. No, it’s not just fantasy. You may think that I threw this in to make working here seem a lot more enticing than it is. Or you’ve heard it all before and it turned out to be fake news. I understand the skepticism because I’ve been there and done that too. It goes to show that talk is cheap, but 2X walks the walk. Productivity is championed at 2X, and so is rest.
Conversations surrounding mental health are not swept under the rug at 2X either. I was pleasantly surprised when Chief Executive Officer Domenic Colasante and Managing Director Yong Siew Mee openly shared their experiences tackling burnout and stress to normalize the topic. The company also offers paid mental health support and mental wellness leave for anyone who needs it. I’m proud to be a part of a company that has taken the lead to destigmatize mental health concerns.
As face-to-face interactions have dwindled due to the pandemic, virtual activities are made available for anyone interested. Once you’re a 2X-er you can expect an avalanche of invitations to online hangouts—from workouts and movie nights to sponsored team lunches. Even as an introvert, I’ve come to appreciate it, because it’s given me a way to connect with colleagues I’ve not yet met in person.
There Is Hope on the Horizon
I’m looking forward to what lies ahead in my 2X adventure, as I’m confident I’ll gain new skills along the way and get to do so alongside excellent colleagues. I’m pleased to have fulfilling days at work and enjoy my life after hours, which essentially revolves around singing, adding way too many films and TV shows to my watch lists, and living my best fangirl life. I hope to indulge in other interests in my spare time, because now I finally can.
My 2X experience thus far can be described as healing. A loved one remarked that I seem happier these days, and it’s the truth. What a difference a healthy and supportive work environment makes. For this reason, I would recommend 2X to anyone eager to learn, thrive at work and have a good time doing it.
You deserve better—2X better. Take that leap of faith and join us; you won’t regret it.