Starting Out as a Freelance Editor

To start off, you’ll need a home base online.  This can be done relatively inexpensively (or even for free), which might be the way to go, starting out. For info on this, head to industry expert Jane Friedman’s blog.  First, her article on whether to go self-hosted or not (self-hosted is not the free option), then her post on setting up a site (which is where she also recommends not starting with self-hosted).

Here you can have information about your services (are you a developmental editor? A line editor? Proofreader? More on the different types of editing in this post on Joel Friedlander’s blog). An example of a freelance editor’s page (she has a huge site, but she has other interests, as well) can be found here.  You could put the link to your new site in your email signature.

Endorsements.  Until you get them from novelists, you could get some from the people you’ve worked for in the past, if you have a editing on your resume.  These endorsements will go on your website and also in your email signature.  You may need to start out doing work for a lower rate than you’ll charge later.

Social media.  A professional page on Facebook and accounts on Twitter (there are lots of writers on Twitter) and LinkedIn is important.  Share posts you’ve written and share posts that others have written, too, as well as networking with writers.  Also, many freelance writers get exposure by commenting on writers’ blogs (not pitching…just being there).

Rates. One important thing to know about freelance editing: the rates vary and should vary, per project.  Many freelance editors offer sample edits of 15 pages or so for free.  This gives an editor a good idea of the writer’s ability. You can see if the writer writes cleanly or poorly.  Some writers are even English as a Second Language and you’ll want a much higher rate for correcting ESL work.  A reference for pricing can be found here.

Ways to connect with indie authors (besides social media).  One of the best-known and most respected sites for indie authors is the Alliance of Independent Authors.  You can apply to be one of their ‘vetted services’.   Another place writers find freelance editors is the Editorial Freelancers Association. You could also attend book festivals and conferences.