Editors are reading and editing pieces written for publication with an eye for style, punctuation, grammar, and spelling. They work with authors to help shape their work into a piece that matches the vision of the author or the idea of the editor’s publication. It is usually only the duty of a copy editor to edit individual pieces. When you work closely with authors at publishing houses, you not only edit their work but also initiate it through the publishing process.
Managing editors for outlets such as newspapers, magazines, journals, and blogs is responsible for directing the publication’s day-to-day operation, selecting print pieces, or assigning work to staff and freelance writers. Print or digital publishing assistant editors are responsible for managing these activities in their offices.
Do you have a great grasp of grammar and attention to detail? If that’s the case, you might have what it takes to try this career. To understand more about this job and the education you’ll need, keep reading.
Training and Education to Become an Editor
Although most in this field have at least a bachelor’s degree, there is no set educational or training path that is specifically required. Most have degrees in English, communications, or journalism. Still, a diploma in any field may be an excellent start to the profession, especially for those focusing on writing in their area of expertise.
Some colleges and universities offer editing and publishing degrees or certificate programs. These programs are frequently offered at the graduate level and include grammar, research, and fact-checking coursework. Students may take prerequisite courses focusing on magazine editing, book publishing, book manuscript editing, or online media, depending on their interests and career goals.
Most people require four years on average to earn a bachelor’s degree. It will take another year or two for those who seek advanced publishing or editing degrees or qualifications to complete their education. If you want to work for newspapers or in publishing houses having this education is highly important.
You may need to spend some time doing internships or working in entry-level positions before you land an editing job. Freelance editors may start looking for customers at any time. Still, it may take time to create a portfolio that will attract larger customers.
Where to Apply for Jobs as an Editor
An editor has a wide variety of options in a lot of different industries. When you earn a degree in journalism or communications, you can apply to editing jobs, writing jobs, marketing jobs, newspaper and magazine jobs, and more.
You can apply for the jobs listed above via the following online platforms that let you filter your search by location, company, and other relevant factors.
Editors may progress to more critical roles within their publishing or publishing house as they gain experience, potentially becoming assistant, managing, or executive editors. Also, editors can move on to larger, more prestigious publications. Freelance editors can attract larger jobs and higher-paid customers as they gain experience. It is also important to build a more impressive work portfolio and make more contacts in the field.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking your first editing position, and want to work for a publisher or publishing house. You can gain experience by doing internships or taking on clerical tasks at the entrance level.
The demand for workers in traditional and online media is secure and, by building a professional network of accomplished editors who are familiar with you and your work, you’ll have a better chance of getting a job.
For more editing-related jobs, click here.
Also read – Blog Editing Jobs – How to Apply?