Freelance editorial work

[Feawen]

Does anyone out there manage to make this work as their main source of income? May I ask how much you earn per hour or per 1000 words?

I'm currently a commissioning editor for a large stm publisher, but have fallen out of love with my job. I have built up a fair few contacts in publishing over the last six years, so should have at least some leads, and plan to identify and approach agencies too. However, I need to find out how everything works, from dealing with my own finances and tax to self-promotion.

I'm considering trying to find a part-time administrative role as a source of steady income while I build up my freelance work. Unfortunately, I'd stand no chance of making a start alongside my current job, which is very full-on.

Am I mad to consider this?!

There is loads of journal work out there - some of it is badly paid but it is constant, at least. I do some 'light touch' editing for STM journals and get about £3 per 1000 words. Sounds rubbish, but as it's just a tidy up and fix the references it works out OK.

Other comparable rates for academic books are £2 per typeset page for editing and about £1.20 for proofreading. Both from 'packagers' who do the work for the big publishers.

I try to make sure it works out at about £20 hour for editing.

I worked in journal production for one of the big STM publishers before going freelance.

Could you freelance for your current employer?

If you're considering this, I'd contact the Society for Editors and Proofreaders - www.sfep.org.uk - and look at their forums, which have invaluable advice on going freelance.

I also recommend proofreader Louise Harnby's book - www.louiseharnbyproofreader.com/book-business-planning-for-editorial-freelancers-a-guide-for-new-starters.html - which covers everything you need to know.

I've been a freelance editor for years, and the hardest bit is building up a client base. There are a lot of new starters out there. You're in a good position, though, as you have industry experience - could you work for your current company as a freelance? What sort of subjects do you want to work on?

PM me if you have any questions! :)