I'm Michael Draper

I've dedicated a large part of my life to the craft of words—they shape our reality, guide our actions, and define our world. I'm fascinated by the strength of a single phrase, the influence of a well-chosen word, and the impact of a compelling story.

When I'm not engrossed in the world of words, you can usually find me outside relishing the simple pleasures of a long hike through the woods or a quiet moment beneath the open sky.

I also enjoy cooking. There's a special kind of magic in combining different flavors, experimenting with recipes, and ultimately creating something that delights the senses—much like words.

At the core of everything I do and love, my family stands as my anchor. My incredible wife and our two beautiful children bring immeasurable joy and meaning to my life.

Thank you for stopping by.

michael draper and his kids

My career so far

I work for Truist Bank on the Security & Access and Alerts design teams. I collaborate with product owners, legal and compliance, marketing, researchers, and other designers to create content for various experiences across web and app for digital banking.

I'm focused on our multi-factor authentication, global search, and servicing alerts. Using content design principles, plain language, and style guides, I work on the UX and UI content for end-to-end user flows for web and app and content for push notifications, SMS, and email.

As a unique project, I'm also helping create a content repository and tracking system for consistency and auditing.

Before Truist, I worked at USAA. I personally touched over 200 pieces of content ranging from web copy for insurance products to error messaging in user flows for our bank app.

I also assisted the transition to a new content management system (CMS). I reshuffled old and outlined new content to fit a page level strategy for optimal content design. I organized these zones to create a great user experience, align with design components and meet business goals.

Prior to USAA, I spent five years as a UX writer for a boutique design studio specializing in websites and branding. Working with CEOs, brand managers, digital product owners, marketing leads, and designers, I clarified messaging and guided users while maintaining brand style guides. I also used technical and on-page SEO best practices to increase visibility and help users find relevant content.

In addition to writing concise and clear copy, I organized CMSs, messaging hierarchy, and information architecture. I used customer research, the desired user action, and the business's goals to make design decisions.

Before UX writing

I spent 10+ years working in hospitality and restaurant management. I used my written and verbal communication skills to lead teams and boost morale. I also spent time working in the entertainment industry as an actor. My time in the hospitality and entertainment industries has taught me that when I listen to, empathize with and celebrate my teammates, I bring my best work to the table.

Technical Skills
UX Writing
Content Design
Copywriting
Branding
Editing
Soft Skills
Eager Collaborator
Friendly
Quick Learner
Creative
Fun
Tools
Figma
G Suite
Mural
Trello
InVision
Miro
Rally
Microsoft Suite
Related Skills
Customer Service
Project Management
Leadership
Adaptable

Education

Books
  • Writing Is Designing
    Michael Metts & Andy Welfle
  • Writing for Designers
    Scott Kubie
  • Strategic Writing for UX
    Torrey Podmajersky
  • The Brand Gap
    Marty Neumeier
  • Microcopy: The complete guide
    Kinneret Yifrah
  • Content Design
    Sarah Winters
Entertainment
  • Anything by Alex Garland
  • Live music
  • Texas Hold'em
  • Gaming
    (slummingbird on Xbox, if ya play😎)
  • Permaculture
  • Tattoos

Influences

Technology should be easy to love

Drop me a line

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.