Editor: Elise Nelson Company: Freelance Number of years in editing: Three years
Tell us a little about yourself, including how you got started as an editor?
I have spent the last two years writing and editing for various online (and a few physical) publications on a freelance basis. My work has appeared on sites like ScreenRant, The Inquisitr, TheTalko, and Uloop News.
My editing career began when I joined the school newspaper during my Journalism studies at Albright College. I started as a music columnist and moved up the ladder throughout my college career until I became Editor-in-Chief my senior year. I already knew I loved writing, but my work on The Albrightian made me fall in love with editing, too.
What is your area of focus and why did you select this niche?
I primarily work with news outlets, but I've also dabbled in writing for marketing/SEO. Really, what I love about freelancing is that I can be exposed to many different niches. I've worked in entertainment, beauty and fashion, job recruitment, and home decor, to name a few. If I had to choose one, I would say I really love video games! I love that I can combine my passion for gaming with my passion for writing and editing.
Walk us through a typical workday. How do you manage your time?
Time-blocking is my best friend. Usually, before I go to bed, I use the free TimeBloc app to plan my work for the next day. I'll schedule about an hour to two hours for each task, but the beauty of freelancing is that it's flexible, so it's no big deal if I spend extra time on something. I wake up the next morning, grab some coffee, and get started on my first task. My days don't always look the same, but they usually include writing a few articles for my current news site to meet my daily quota, publishing a blog post for a freelance client, working on longer projects, and studying for Poynter's ACES Certificate in Editing program!
What is your favorite thing about being an editor?
As I mentioned, I love that my work exposes me to different niches that I never thought I'd encounter otherwise. I'm always learning something new. (And I love learning!)
Plus, a tiny sense of accomplishment does come when I'm able to instantly spot a typo!
What is your biggest challenge and how do you work through this?
I still consider myself to be relatively new in the editing field. I have more individual experiences under my belt on the writing side of things. So, I think a challenge comes from how competitive the industry can be, especially when you're freelancing. As someone with editing experience here and there sprinkled around my writing experience, I need to convince clients and employers to pick me over someone who has consistently worked in editing for several years. I like to focus on the fact that my career has so far been well-rounded, and I really push my skills and abilities.
What are you currently working on?
Right now, I have a few different consistent freelance gigs. I am a gaming news writer for ScreenRant and a National Team Writer for Uloop News. In addition, I'm a content creator and editor for October Dreams Marketing & Photography's blog.
What advice do you have for someone who is just starting their career as an editor?
Stay positive and don't get discouraged! I've had my fair share of moments where I struggled for weeks to find a new gig. This industry is competitive, especially online. Whether you're freelancing or looking for a full-time 9-5, just keep applying and don't give up.
If there is a time where you have no work, consider starting a personal blog to keep your writing skills sharp. This also gives you an opportunity to have total freedom in your tone and what you write about, and it can help you find your preferred niche.