How to Find Freelance Copy Editing Jobs Online

You’ve decided to become a copy editor, and you know you want to work remotely – but do you know where to find freelance copy editing jobs?

In this blog post, we’ll give you a quick reminder of what copy editing involves, and then explore some of the different ways you can bag yourself a freelance copy-editing job online:

1. By signing up for an agency
2. By checking job sites and freelance marketplaces
3. By contacting potential clients directly
4. By building a strong online presence

What Is Copy Editing?

The terms copy editing and proofreading are often used interchangeably, but they are two distinct parts of the publishing process.

Copy editing is the process of reviewing the ‘copy’ (written material) to improve accuracy, readability, and overall quality. It takes place after developmental and line editing has been finished, but before the final proofread.

A copy editor will: 

• Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Ensure there is consistency in the style, tone, and formatting of the document
• Remove vocabulary that’s unclear, incorrect, or inappropriate for the audience
• Address sentence order and syntax errors
• Look out for excessive wordiness or redundancies
• Correct any pacing issues
• Make sure that the author’s voice is maintained throughout
• Make sure that the document adheres to a given publishing style or style guide

How to Find Freelance Copy Editing Jobs

Whether you’re just starting in your career, or already have some experience, there are many ways to find freelance copy-editing jobs online. Here, we’ll explore four of the options.

1. Signing Up with an Agency

One way to find copy-editing jobs (and make your life significantly easier) is by signing up with an agency that specializes in editing. These agencies will connect you with clients, so they’re a great choice for new editors.

After you sign up, you may need to pass a test to get started. But once you’re in, you can take on as much or as little work as you like, gain access to quality support and resources, and avoid the hassle of doing your own admin.

2. Checking Job Sites and Freelancing Marketplaces

Well-known job sites such as Indeed and Reed, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn, often list copy-editing jobs. There is usually a mixture of in-house and freelance positions, allowing you to find opportunities that suit your needs.

You can also try freelance marketplaces like Fiverr and PeoplePerHour. These marketplaces are online platforms that connect freelancers with businesses or individuals who need a particular service. All you need to do is create a profile and list your services, and clients will reach out to you directly.

Much like agencies, one big benefit of this method is that the platform typically handles administrative tasks for you. And although freelance marketplaces are competitive, they can be a great way to build up experience and connect with potential long-term clients.

3. Contacting Potential Clients Directly

It might feel intimidating, but cold contacting potential clients is a solid way to secure work. Perhaps there’s a particular company you’d love to work with, or you’ve spotted some errors in a company or individual’s content – don’t be afraid to reach out and offer your services.

Before you reach out, it’s always worth researching the company and finding out who oversees their content. You can tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience and qualifications and send a polite, professional email explaining how you can help.

4. Building a Strong Online Presence

If you want to find freelance copy-editing jobs online, building your online presence is essential.

Having a website is a good place to start; your website provides you with a place to list your services and prices, display your portfolio, and showcase your positive testimonials. It also gives potential clients an easy way to contact you and ask questions.

Social media platforms (e.g., LinkedIn and Instagram) can also be a great way to network, connect with potential clients, and interact with the professional community. Your profiles are a way for people to get to know you and the services you offer.

Becoming An Editor

If you have a keen eye for detail and enjoy polishing written content, our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this field. Buy both courses as a bundle, and you’ll save 15%. We also offer our top graduates guaranteed work opportunities with our partner company, Proofed.

Sign up for two free lessons of each course today!