What is proofreading?
Proofreading is the final stage of checking a text before it is published. Proofreading focuses on identifying and correcting minor errors and inconsistencies and checking for issues including spelling and grammar mistakes, incorrect punctuation, word usage, style and layout errors, and annotations or page numbers. Ultimately, the goal of proofreading is to ensure that the text reads clearly, appears polished, and is correct.
Proofreaders are responsible for polishing written content for businesses, content writers, website owners and academics. General proofreaders will work across all types of content, but you could also specialise in a particular discipline or area. If you have relevant knowledge or experience in a specific area, this can increase your side hustle earning potential.
What makes a good proofreader?
To become a great proofreader, you need to have good communication skills and have a good understanding of English grammar. Do you love to read? Can you recognise mistakes and grammatical errors? Do you enjoy focusing on details? If so, proofreading could be an excellent side hustle for you.
Benefits of proofreading as a side hustle
- Reasonable startup costs. Startup costs for proofreading are minimal. Essential equipment includes a computer, internet connection and a good dictionary
- You can increase your rates as you gain experience. Proofreading allows you to increase your fees as you gain experience, training and receive positive client feedback and testimonials
- Proofreading increases your general knowledge. Being a proofreader will expand your knowledge and enrich your vocabulary. If you love to learn, you will enjoy this aspect of proofreading
- Proofreading is a flexible side hustle. You can proofread in the early morning, late at night, on the weekends, or anytime that suits your schedule. Looking for freelance work? Proofreading is one of the best side hustles if you are looking for flexible, remote work. As a freelance proofreader you can work for various clients, set your own rates and charge hourly or by the word
How to start your proofreading side hustle
Determine your niche.
Training and Qualifications. Courses offered by established associations and training providers can help you attract clients and demonstrate your specialist skills. The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) are a non-profit association promoting excellence in English language editing and they offer a variety of training courses. Qualifications are also offered by a variety of organisations including The Publishing Training Centre and the College of Media and Publishing.
Resources
There are various resources available to assist you with developing your proofreading skills including accuracy and efficiency and business plans. Style guides, books featuring required proofreading skills and business guides can provide essential knowledge and information to help you succeed.
Style Guides. In proofreading, a style guide is a document that outlines rules and preferences for writing, formatting, and presenting content. Style guides ensure that documents are consistent and adhere to required standards. Examples of style guides include The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook which is commonly used in journalism and media and the MLA Handbook used for writing and formatting research papers in the humanities.
Proofreading Books. If you are looking for a guide to general proofreading McGraw-Hill’s Proofreading Handbook provides the required information to ensure your documents are precise, accurate and grammatically correct. This book provides you with the fundamental skills to succeed at proofreading and offers step-by-step instructions to take you through the complete proofreading process. Alternatively, if you are looking for resources to assist with developing the business aspects of proofreading, The Pocket Book of Proofreading is a useful guide to help you learn all the secrets of how to be successful and earn extra income as a freelance proofreader.
Branding and – building a website// Portfolio Website.
Creating a memorable and recognisable brand identity and signature style is crucial for your proofreading business. Designing a portfolio website is also essential for increasing awareness about your services and attracting clients. Read about how to develop your brand on the Event Planner post and how to create a portfolio website on the Social Media Management post.
How to find work as a proofreader?
There are various ways to find work as a freelance proofreader. Here are some ideas and platforms to explore to help you find work and develop your proofreading side hustle.
Proofreadingservices.com offer remote, online proofreading jobs often with flexible hours and competitive pay.
Find a Proofreader is an online directory focused on proofreading. This directory can help you increase your exposure and find freelance work. In addition, you can join the directory for a small annual fee.
Scribendi hire freelance proofreaders and editors and provide the opportunity to receive regular work for experienced professionals.
Job boards can be useful places to find proofreading work. Indeed is a popular general job board – try searching ‘freelance proofreader’ to find suitable opportunities.
The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading has a directory, although they require you to be a professional member to be listed. However, they also have a marketplace forum which lists job opportunities that are accessible to all members.
In addition, consider attending events and networking with industry professionals to grow your proofreading business. Participating in writing and publishing events such as book launches and writing festivals provides opportunities to meet industry experts, build connections, and promote your services.
Are you ready to start proofreading as a side hustle? Proofreading offers an excellent side hustle opportunity if you are interested in reading, have excellent attention to detail skills and looking for flexible freelance work. Looking for additional freelance side hustles? Read about different ideas and find the best option for you!