If you are one of those individuals who can spots mistakes in print quickly, and have a good grasp of proper grammar, you may have an interest in starting your own proofreading service. I can tell you that if you have no proofreading credentials, it will be almost impossible to start out working for large companies. If you have a degree in writing or English, you may posses all the credentials needed, but I would still recommend that you take a proofreading certification course. This will give you much more credibility with potential clients.
If taking a proofreading course isn’t possible at the moment, you can visit your local public or college library where you’re sure to find plenty of materials about proofreading. Yes, most colleges allow non-students to use the library materials, they are called community borrowers. You can call your local college library for more details about community library privileges.
Getting started as a proofreader will be much easier if you begin by visiting online forums and offering your services to the many webmasters who gather there to seek such services. You can offer your services as an ebook, sales copy, or article proofreader. Be prepared to lowball on the cost of your services before you get a reputation on the forums for being a quality proofreader. Once you are known to offer quality service, you can charge as much as the clients will bear.
Consider joining all of the copywriting forums you can find, and become an active member. You will be promoting your proofreading services in your signature file, and by taking part in the discussions you will get your service noticed by people who need you most, the writers!
You can also visit all of the temporary agencies in your area and apply to be a temp proofreader to assist you in getting jobs in the field. When you do this, you will more than likely be tested, so be prepared by learning all of the symbols used by professional proofreaders. You can take a refresher course by going back to the course books, or by searching online.
Of course by now, I don’t think there is anyone who hasn’t heard about Craigslist. You can post ads on Craigslist offering your services as a proofreader. Craigslist has become such a phenomenon, that medium to large businesses use it to post ads for help, so there is a good chance your ad will be seen by a business seeking a proofreader. Answer all inquiries about your services quickly, and honestly.
Some individuals may tell you that it isn’t possible to make any money as a proofreader, but they are seriously mistaken. It may take some time, and it will definitely take dedication, but it is well worth the time and effort to be able to work from home doing something you love. Working from home gives you more freedom to work when you want to, peace of mind by being at home should your family need you, and best of all, it pays well!
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