Have you ever wondered how the writing process of full-length novels occurs? How does a single writer proofread and edit 70,000-120,000 words? The truth is—they don’t! This is not to say that writers don’t reread or evaluate their work, but most of the editing process involves teamwork. Writers will create all written text, but editors often proofread and correct this work. Editors are highly trained in proofreading for grammar, spelling, and writing style. They have an eye for organization, reading comprehension, and tact. It is tough to edit and proofread one’s writing; editors use fresh eyes and in-depth knowledge to help mold the polished writing we see in novels, articles, and press releases. We even know the work of editors on website copy and some social media posts! If you believe an editing career may be perfect for you, there are a few steps to take to ensure your job goes far.
Types of Editing Careers
No matter what type of editing career, your role will always consist of proofreading text for errors, consistency, and style. However, the kind of text and writing style you edit for different roles will vary. Academia editors work with research and academic writing. News editors will proofread journalistic work for errors and style choices. Entertainment editors combine their writing technical expertise with a love for the arts to create high-quality written material. Editors can also work with novels, children’s books, website copy, social media, business or legal documents, or wherever accurate and high-quality text is needed.
Editing and Writing Styles
The first step to starting a rewarding career in editing is to choose the scope you’d like to shoot for. However, you may have to take on some editing roles that don’t align with your dream role to establish a resume. Educating yourself on all writing and editing styles is also helpful for kickstarting a career path. Writing styles include academic ones such as MLA, APA, journalistic, formal, informal, blog writing, novel writing, nonfictional writing, children’s writing, and more. Editing styles include copyediting (basic edits such as grammar and spelling), developmental editing (editing for flow and structure), and line editing (paragraph, line, or sentence editing). Understanding different types of editing and how to complete them will help you hone your craft and determine what scope of the editing industry you’d like to step foot in.
Complete Education
While a strong editing portfolio can help you land a job, college degrees focusing on writing, editing, or journalism can give you an advantage as a job applicant. These classes also allow you to practice, receive feedback, and study editing. If you do not want to complete a full degree, there are also editing courses, classes, and programs that require less time and financial commitments. Certificates on a resume may give you a slight advantage on an application.
Professional Editing Societies and Groups
A professional society is a group of career professionals in specific fields that provides industry trends, job opportunities, and resources for career advancement. The editing field has many professional societies, such as the American Copy Editors or Editorial Freelancers Association. By joining a professional editing society, you can access these career resources and stay updated on editing career trends that may give you an advantage in the field.
Perfect Your Resume
A resume for any job industry should be informative, concise, and error-free. However, if a resume has typos or wording issues for an editing position, it’s safe to say that may cost you the job! Be sure your resume is updated, correct, and free of errors. Include any education, courses, certifications, or societies you are a part of to show your dedication to the field.
Editing Portfolios
A portfolio serves as an example of your work. Artists have examples of different art styles and mediums in their portfolios. Writers showcase different writing genres, styles, and tones. Editor portfolios should feature texts showcasing their style, genre, and convention editing expertise. Your portfolio can give recruiters a sample of how your work looks in its final stages and what kind of writing you excel at editing.
Consider Freelance Work
Freelance work has many benefits, especially for those starting a career; it lets you put experience and work history on a resume. It also gives you an idea of a typical editing job without committing to a long-term role. Additionally, freelance work allows you to essentially ‘be your own boss’ regarding scheduling and client choice. Perusing online platforms or recruiters looking for freelance editors for hire is a great start.
Start Networking
Networking involves connecting with other professionals in your field. Networking circulates your name within your field, establishes colleagues, and may even provide exclusive job opportunities. Professional social media such as LinkedIn is often a simple and easy way to start networking in editing.
Online Job Hunting
Once you’ve secured experience, education, and knowledge of the editing industry, it’s time to start hunting for the perfect career. While submitting your resume to businesses needing editors in person can be beneficial, many editors work remotely or hybridly online. Tailor your portfolio, resume, and cover letter for different recruiters or firms to boost your success in online job applications. Some recruiters filter resumes for specific keywords, so organically include industry-relevant terms in your cover letter, portfolio, and resume. Don’t be afraid to follow up if you haven’t heard from a hiring team; it can show dedication and passion.
Conclusion
Editors mold and craft written work into the perfectly polished prose we see on the page. They are a vital part of the writing process and can make a rewarding career choice. Prospective editors can boost their chances of finding their dream career through education, certifications, and editing societies. Career networking and completing online job applications can also provide more employment opportunities.
