In 2019, there were 57 million freelancers in the U.S and the number is expected to grow.
Editing is a fantastic way to earn a living if you love reading, elevating prose, and honing your proofreading skills. Perhaps you want to take the plunge and become a freelance editor but you’re not sure where to begin.
Sounds like you? Great, then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to become a freelance editor.
What Is a Freelance Editor?
Before checking our tips for becoming a freelance editor, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the job description. A freelance editor reviews a client’s work so they are ready for publication. Because you’re a freelancer, you’ll work on a project-by-project basis from restructuring a manuscript to combing an article for grammatical errors.
It’s important to consider your strengths and weaknesses so you know what to avoid in terms of projects and clients.
How to Become a Freelance Editor
Being a freelance editor is rewarding and you can’t wait to begin. There are many ways to start but these are the essentials. For example:
Study
One of the top freelancing tips for editors is to learn the ins-and-outs of editing. Many editors get a bachelor’s degree in creative writing but there aren’t any formal education requirements to start. But it’s wise to take editing courses online or join a writer’s workshop so you can learn the fundamental skills.
You could also apply for a part-time position at an established editing company so you learn about the different editing styles and standards. Once you’re ready, you can become a full-time freelancer.
Read, Read, Read
Looking for tips for freelance editors?
Start by devouring books because reputable editors have extensive knowledge about the contemporary literary scene. This will show you what’s trending and what readers are looking for. You should also read informative books to develop your editing skills.
Develop a Niche
Instead of simply selling your editing skills, hone in on projects that interest you. It could be editing dissertations, manuscripts, or books, for example. Whichever you choose, focus on becoming an expert in that area so you can charge higher rates and build a loyal customer base.
Look for Editing Work
Find work on job listing sites designed for creatives. But don’t limit yourself to the internet as you’re competing with possibly hundreds of other freelance editors.
Instead, check your local university, bulletin boards, and places authors often work such as bookstores or coffee houses.
That’s How to Become a Freelance Editor
Hopefully, you now know how to become a freelance editor.
Make sure you’re constantly improving editing skills by reading, staying atop literary trends, and attending workshops. Focus on one area of editing so you can become an expert in that niche and constantly hunt for jobs online and offline. Good luck!
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