<ul><li>Do you love reading and language?</li><li>Do you want to be a lifelong learner? Some fields will require you to learn new things constantly.</li><li>Are you OK with working behind the scenes?</li><li>Do you really want to be a writer? Editors are often frustrated writers. If you want to write, then write.</li><li>Do you want to be a writer with a day job? You may find it difficult to write after a long day of editing, but it is not impossible.</li></ul>

Considering if editing is the right career

Editors usually focus on one type of medium. The most common areas include:
<ul>
<li>Book editing: Project managing the entire journey of the book and getting it published.</li>
<li>Newspaper editing. Editors edit text and ensure it matches the paper's voice, style, tone, and ethical standards.</li>
<li>Magazine editing. Editors bring an article from the idea phase through publication. They work with copy editors, fact-checkers, top editors, designers, illustrators, photographers and lawyers.</li>
<li>Online media and content editing.</li>
<li>Communications editing. Many organisations put out written internal and external communications.</li>
</ul>

Different kinds of editing

Editors can work for any company putting out written content. Editors can also work as freelancers for several clients. There are many opportunities to work remotely. The career outlook: Editor positions are expected to grow 5% between 2020 and 2030, slower than the average for other occupations. Editor positions in information services are expected to grow 27.7%, while print magazines and newspapers are projected to decline 4.7%.

Logistical details of editing as a career

Fixing grammar and spelling mistakes is a small part of an editor's work. Editors plan, coordinate, revise, correct and format content for publication. Editors responsibilities:<ul><li>Revising text for content, structure, length, tone, and voice issues.</li><li>Editing text for paragraph and sentence-level,</li><li>Giving feedback and supporting writers.</li><li>Developing ideas and assigning them to writers.</li><li>Communicating and coordinating with writers.</li><li>Managing budgets.</li><li>Setting and coordinating deadlines.</li><li>Tracking performance.</li></ul>

Editor duties and responsibilities

<ul><li>Read the medium you want to edit as hiring managers want to see that you're engaging with the industry.</li><li>Study the companies where you apply to. Look at their publications and websites.</li><li>Don't skip the cover letter. That is the first chance you have to show off your writing and editing skills.</li><li>Proofread all application materials.</li><li>Prepare for an editing test.</li></ul>

How to get a job as an editor

<ul><li>Companies often require at least a bachelor's degree, with majors in English, journalism, communications.</li><li>You can also learn from managers and coworkers; however, companies will want to see that you know the basics of writing mechanics and structure.</li><li>Completing an internship in the industry can help your employment chances.</li></ul>

Education, training, certification

<ul><li>Strong writing skills. You need to know how writing conveys messages and information and how different choices may affect how your piece is read.</li><li>Good communications skills</li><li>Knowledge of grammar and other language rules</li><li>Knowledge of story and/or article structure</li><li>Style guides and how to stick to them</li><li>Interpersonal skills</li><li>Organisational skills</li><li>Time management skills</li><li>Project management skills</li><li>Giving and receiving constructive feedback</li><li>Creativity</li><li>Adaptability</li><li>Ability to work under pressure</li></ul>

Editor skills

Not sure if editing is the career for you? Here’s everything you need to know before you decide.