How to Start Working as an Editor or Copywriter

by Timothy Cummings, Guest Contributor

Many people dream about working from home. It gives them complete control over their work schedule and has numerous other benefits. Before you can work from home, however, you must find a job. If you are trying to find somewhere with a sign that reads ‘Copywriters and Editors Wanted’, then follow the steps below.
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If working from home seems ideal, then finding work as an editor or copywriter may be key to your success.

Step 1: Decide How You Want to Work
Copywriters and editors often have more than one way of attracting potential clients. Some choose to work through platforms. Platforms can make it easier to find work, but they also usually charge fees for payments you receive. The advantage of platforms is that many use an Escrow account, which protects you from not getting paid for your work.

The other option is to create your own website and social media profiles to connect with potential clients. You can call them, do walk-ins, or apply to sites where you can be a professional dissertation writer. The key to success as a copywriter or editor is making connections, so pay close attention to your profiles and showcase your abilities.

Step 2: Make Yourself Hire-able
When you work online, you have the potential of connecting with clients all over the world. While the job market is vast, so is the number of people working as editors or copywriters. Jobs in technology are popular, especially as automation starts taking over in some other careers.

The first step to getting hired is to possess skills as an editor or copywriter. Brushing up on the rules of grammar and language can drastically help. The profile that you share on various websites and having your own site can also attract clients. What is most important is to find something that sets you apart from others and stick with it. The thing that makes you unique will be your strength, especially when there are so many potential candidates for the job.

Step 3: Find a Niche
One of the biggest struggles that you will face when working from home is by keeping yourself motivated. The best way to do this is avoiding boring or otherwise undesirable work. Instead, choose a niche that interests you to work in. Usually, it should be something that is specific without being so specific you cannot find work in that area.

Step 4: How to Apply to Editing and Copywriting Jobs
The technique you are using to find work will determine how you apply to jobs. Independent freelancers sometimes find blogs in their niche and contact the owner to see if they are looking for guest posters. Another option is to inquire at companies related to your niche. If you are working through a writer platform, then you will search for jobs in your niche and apply.

Step 5: Show You Are the Best Person for the Job
The best person for the job is going to be the person who can deliver exactly what the client wants. Ideally, you should provide samples in a related area. If you do not have any, or you want a better chance at landing the job, spend some time writing out a few paragraphs that showcase your abilities for that specific copywriting or copyediting position. This lets you adjust the word choice, tone, and message to fit what they are looking for.

Step 6: Following Up
One of three things will happen when you apply for a job or send out a query. The application will be accepted, the client will tell you they are uninterested, or you will not hear anything. If you do not hear anything, give them a week and follow up. Do not pester—if you do not hear anything again, you should give it up as a lost cause and turn your focus elsewhere.

If working from home seems ideal to you, then finding work as an editor or copywriter may be key to your success. By following the steps above, you can give yourself an edge over the competition and find a job in these areas.
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Author bio:

Timothy Cummings is an English major that has a minor in history. He has recently joined the blogging sphere to help share his expert knowledge with others. This journey led Timothy to create this article, to help others that want to find editing or copywriting work.