Journalist Spotlight | Interview with Dylan Crismale, Digital Content Editor at WhistleOut

Dylan Crismale sat down with Medianet to bring you this week’s spotlight interview. Dylan recently began a new role at WhistleOut as Digital Content Editor covering the telco space and working with the Reviews.org and SafeWise.com teams.

Firstly, congratulations on your new role at WhistleOut!

Thank you, it's a very exciting time.

Can you tell me a bit about your start in the industry and your journey to becoming Digital Content Editor at WhistleOut?

I took every opportunity I could while I was at uni. I reported on a federal election in collaboration with Twitter AU, edited the UTS student magazine, and did stints in community media.

Once uni was over I was looking to work somewhere exciting and found myself at the comparison website, Finder, as a travel writer. Eventually, I moved to the utilities vertical and quickly learnt everything I could about the energy and telco spaces. 

Now I'm bringing that expertise to the fantastic team at WhistleOut. 

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

It's hard to pick just one. Publishing Vertigo was pretty exciting. It was challenging but very rewarding, there's something very special about print and seeing something go from an idea with a writer, editing it and then seeing it on paper brought to life by art. 

Apart from a big undertaking like that, every day in media is so interesting, there's always something new to learn or be challenged by. 

What have you learnt about yourself and your work during your career and industry experiences?

There are no good or bad experiences, just lessons. Also, do things outside of your comfort zone. I wouldn't be where I am today without saying "yes" and seeing where it led. 

If you could go back 5 years, what advice would you give yourself?

Ironically, don't stress about deadlines. Obviously, you should file your work on time but in your broader life don't worry about being behind your peers or what everyone else is doing. Focus on yourself and eventually, you'll be rewarded. 

Where do you see yourself in the future and where would you like your work to take you?

I'm more focused on the present right now but what I really love about my job is helping people get the most value out of the services they use. I like to think I'll always take that ethos with me no matter what I do. 

Any upcoming work we should keep an eye out for?

Nothing in particular but there's always something happening in the telco space. 

What are your pitching preferences?

Email is best, if I think it's something that would suit our audience I'll be sure to follow up.