Imagine a job that provides you with something good and gives you the power to make it better. Editors worldwide enjoy this bliss every day, along with several other benefits.
From minimal supervision to the comfort of working from home, there are countless reasons why millions of people aspire to become editors. Working as an editor can give you a sense of freedom and satisfaction every day.
However, breaking into a field with so much competition is not easy. Of course, you need more than a skill to stand out. Once you establish your presence as an editor, things get easier with every passing day. Here are some effective tips to become a reliable editor.
Table of Contents
1. Discover Your Interests
The title of being an editor has several niches under it. Every niche deals with a different type of work. Every type of editing concerns a person with different preferences, from daily news to research articles.
Before you start pursuing a career in editing, it is vital to understand these different options. After all, you do not want to end up in an awkward place where you loathe your job every day.
Instead, it is better to give some thought to what you want to do as an editor. These are the few options that aspiring editors can explore.
a. Book Editing
As the name suggests, book editors work on improving a manuscript alongside the editor. The duties of a book editor include copyediting, proofreading, and taking the necessary steps to shape the project as a whole. However, a client can choose to hire all or select services from you.
b. Web Editing
While many solo bloggers may not review their work before uploading, major publishing platforms are very careful about the quality of their content. They work with teams of editors to ensure that their content reaches a quality standard. Such editors with knowledge of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) are in high demand.
c. Magazine Editing
Magazine editors are responsible for many things, such as choosing themes and ensuring the style of publication. These duties are accompanied by copyediting and proofreading. You can also choose to work with different genres of magazine editing.
d. News Editing
News editing is well suited for aspiring editors that aspire to a fast-paced job. From fact-checking to quality assurance, news editors must stay on their toes to ensure that the news is sent out as soon as it is received. It can be tiring for some, yet fun for those who prefer managerial roles.
e. Technical Editing
Technical writers must be focused on the accuracy of technical information. They are also expected to be focused on providing clear information and effective communication. Their work can range from technical manuals to research publications and investigations.
f. Copy Editor
When it comes to a career in editing, copy editors enjoy the most freedom. Their work environments can vary from newsrooms to publication houses. In addition, they also have the privilege of working freelance and from the comfort of their home.
2. Acquire the Education
Finding your dream editing job without the right education can be hard. Therefore, it is important to look for the right paths to education after choosing your editing niche.
A degree in English, journalism, or communication can increase your chances of landing a job as an editor. Education in these disciplines, along with strong writing skills, are the basics you need to pursue a career in editing.
Formal education can increase your chances of finding your dream editing job and working with reputable names.
However, freelance editors usually do not have to follow these requirements religiously. By understanding what is the EFA, they can gather the necessary knowledge and network productively, leading to a successful editing career.
3. Gain Experience
Experience plays an important role in the professional life of an editor. The more experience you have, the better chances are there for you to land the right job. That is why most editors begin with internships and work their way up.
You can also look for freelance work on online job platforms to start your career. Freelance editing opportunities can help you acquire a lot of reliable experience. You can learn a lot of lessons along the way and gain more control over your skill.
Beginner editors can also look for calls for volunteer editors. Although these opportunities may not pay a lot, to begin with, the exposure you get from these gigs can be very valuable. It is best to make sure that the opportunity you avail aligns with your professional goals.
4. Build a Portfolio
Working your way up as a professional editor can take some time. However, it is important to value every experience that you gather along the way. Whether you work with a small company on an internship or a famous brand as a volunteer, make the best of every experience along the way.
Make sure that you ask for a review or testimonial with every milestone achieved. You can add these testimonials and reviews to your website or CV. These words of appraisal and satisfaction can go a long way and build a strong reputation for you as an editor.
5. Stay Resilient
It can be easy to give up on your aim when faced with hardship. After all, being an editor in any niche is not a job for a wallflower. Resilience is the key to finding success in any career. You must stay strong in the face of adversity.
Every time you face a backlash, look into the ways to improve on the problem. After all, someone always feels keen to criticize your work and focus on the negativities. In such times, look at the bright side, chin up, and be more resilient every day.
It is also important to accept what is out of your control. You cannot make everyone happy with your pace or work. Therefore, it is best to prioritize your mental health, take one step at a time, and find your dream job.
