October: All About Editing Jobs
September 30, 2009 by Allison Boyer
Filed under Jobs
You guys are killing me. Seriously, killing me. Last month, we talked about social networking, which is definitely the bottom of my list of “favorite things to do.” This month? Editing. Sigh.
I have a confession to make. Editing is the bane of my existence.
Image: sxc.hu
I know; I’m a writer, so I should be able to write well. I know the rules of grammar. I understand the difference between “there” and “their.” I can use a semicolon with ease. I do well at using the words “good” and “well” – yes, it is a good thing to know the difference.
Yet, I employ an editor because I can’t trust myself not to make massive errors in my work. The typos are what get me, every single time. I type too fast and have too much on my plate every day. I’m sure you’ve noticed some typos around here, and for that I’m sorry. I stink at editing myself.
This is all fairly ironic, because I actually am very good at editing others’ work. I’ve had editing jobs in the past, and I’ve been praised for my work on these projects. It’s just myself. It is impossible for me to see my own typos.
So what will we talk about this month?
- Where to Find Editing Jobs?
- How Much to Charge for Editing
- Five Steps to Editing your Own Work
- What to do when You don’t Agree with Your Editor
- Hiring an Editor
- Grammar Rules
And more, of course! Plus, if there’s a topic you want to discuss, leave a comment here. I’ll try to cover as many topics as possible during October.
Um, didn’t you suggest the list of topics that we voted on?! Maybe next time you could pick things you like :)
On the topic of editing your own work, I’ve always found this very difficult too. Mainly because I know what I want to say so I assume I’ve said it. I stop reading what I actually wrote and drift off thinking about what I think I wrote. I maintain that editing is a much harder discipline than writing.
grumpycow, people have actually been emailing me with theme suggestions and I get an occasional comment about it too! You’re right, though – I ultimately have final say on the voting list, so I have no right to complain. Too much. :)
I’m glad I’m not the only one who has trouble concentrating while editing!