Last week we talked about choosing a suitable freelance book editor. Today Derek Murphy, an editor and owner of the editing company, Paper Perfect, writes about what it takes to become one.
by Derek Murphy
I’ve been a full-time, professional copy editor and proofreader for a few years now, and I can understand why so many people are interested in this field. For starters, I get to work at home, be my own boss, set my own pace (sort of), and still make enough money to buy myself a lot of cool toys. Here are a few of the most common questions wannabe-editors have asked me, along with my answers.
1. Who can be a copy editor? What are the requirements?
sAnybody can become a copy editor or proofreader. There are no universal standards, however excellent spelling, grammar and attention to detail will certainly help. Moreover, an excellent grasp of the English language, style, word choice, as well as the mechanics of good fiction and non-fiction writing are useful.
The best proofreaders are probably pedantic and organized, although this is in no way a certainty. (It doesn’t apply to me, for example.) In truth, there are probably many people who, given enough practice, could become great copy editors. The trick is in setting yourself up as a proofreader or copy-editor and getting people to trust you with their documents.
2. How do I get started? What jobs are available?
The way most people get started is by applying for a part-time or full-time position with an established editing company. You would do this like you would apply for any other job: sell yourself and your achievements. You’d probably have to do some tests, sample edits and things like that to prove your capability as an editor….
Read it all at freelancewriting.com
