Those seeking jobs as editors are in luck. In a world where texting, instant messaging, and emailing rule, grammar, spelling, and style are no longer many people's strong points. Not only are copy editors in demand, but with the rise of online publishing companies, today's copy editors can easily work for multiple companies, deciding their own hours and income.
Be a Vigilant Reader and Writer
Most copy editors love words and are able to focus on the details of an overall piece. Mentally copy edit documents, newsletters, brochures, and other documents you come in contact with to sharpen your skills.
Potential copy editors should pay close attention to good writing and soak in the style, spelling, grammar, and word choice used in the style of writing. Pursue many interests and gain a broad knowledge of many topics; a general knowledge in a variety of fields makes copy editors more desirable and employable.
Stay Up-to-Date on Grammar, Editing, and Publishing
Regularly read about grammar and different trends in acceptable language and usage rules, which are constantly changing. Many online publications are dropping more formal English and journalism rules for a more casual style, while business and technical documents tend to have their own set of more formal rules. Know and understand what is expected in the field and publication you apply for.
Take a Class or Two in Copy Editing
One of the best ways to learn the concrete rules of different publications is through taking a class in copy editing. Many colleges and online schools offer night or weekend courses that can be completed relatively quickly and cheaply.
Study copy editing skills in your own time if you don't want to take a course. Many online publishing companies will not require a portfolio but for potential employees to pass a test, which can work to an inexperienced copy editor's advantage.
Build a Copy Editing Portfolio Any Way Possible
It is hard to land a job without experience but how can a copy editor get experience without experience? Offer to edit peers' papers or business documents for nothing but the experience. Copy edit the newsletter for any organization you are involved in. Work as an intern at a publishing company. Do anything to gain samples because with a portfolio, it is easier for job-seekers to find positions in copy editing.
Decide What Kind of Copy Editing You're Interested In
While it is possible to edit for many types of publishers, many copy editors prefer to edit either books, magazines, newspapers, or online content to keep up with only one set of rules specific to a particular type of publication. Decide whether you would prefer editing in-house for one publishing company, working project-to-project for various publishers, or editing for multiple publishers at a time.
Try Editing in Your Area of Expertise
Copy editors who have other areas of expertise are more likely to land a job in their area of expertise than editors who are unfamiliar in the field. They are also more likely to enjoy editing in fields they're interested in.
Keep in mind that while it is possible to make a decent living through copy editing, the profession is not usually a high-paying one. To make a good living, copy writers must often times work many positions and long days to meet deadlines. Do not go into copy writing to make money; most copy editors are in the field because of their genuine love for words and writing style.
Related Reading:
- How to Break into Freelance Editing
- How the Writer and Editor Relationship Works
- Revising Copy Objectively and Efficiently
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