How to Find Proofreading Jobs Online
You’ve decided to work as a freelance proofreader – but have you thought about how to find proofreading jobs online?
If not, don’t worry! Whether you’re new to proofreading or you already have some experience, there are plenty of opportunities and ways to find freelance work.
In this guide, you’ll learn about nine tried-and-true methods for boosting your credibility, finding online proofreading jobs, and landing clients:
- Perfect your resume
- Start close to home
- Explore freelance marketplaces
- Apply to specialized proofreading companies
- Build your online presence
- Reach out directly
- Join proofreading societies and groups
- Network in person
- Consider extra training
Let’s get started!
1. Perfect Your Resume
Before you set out to find your first (or next) remote proofreading job, it’s wise to make sure your professional profile is polished. Updating your resume or CV – and tailoring it to proofreading – can help you stand out to potential clients, whether they are individuals or companies. Here are a few tips on how best to do this:
- Highlight your proofreading experience – Mention any previous work you’ve done that required meticulous attention to spelling, grammar, and style. This might include school papers you’ve edited, volunteer projects you were part of, or formal proofreading roles.
- Include relevant training – If you’ve completed any writing or editing courses – even if they were informal – list them, and note the skills you gained from each.
- Emphasize specific achievements – Use action words to describe your accomplishments, and be as specific as possible with examples describing the impact of your work.
And remember, your resume or CV should be a constantly evolving document. Whenever you apply for a new role, review it to make sure it aligns with the job description and the client’s (or employer’s) needs. This might mean:
- Researching the client to understand their industry focus, writing style, or target audience
- Updating your personal statement or summary to reflect your most relevant skills and experience
- Reorganizing the information in your employment section to highlight the most applicable skills or experience
- Incorporating keywords and phrases from the job description
2. Start Close to Home
If you’re just getting started, begin by tapping into your existing network. Consider friends, family, classmates, or colleagues who might need help polishing an essay, a resume, website content, or a manuscript. While you may charge only a modest fee – or even offer your services at no cost initially – this can help you:
- Gain valuable practice and experience
- Collect testimonials or recommendations for future work
- Build a portfolio you can show to paying clients down the road
This approach can also lead to word-of-mouth referrals. Satisfied clients in your immediate network can connect you with people you might not otherwise have met.
3. Explore Freelance Marketplaces
Freelance marketplaces, such as Fiverr and Upwork, can be great ways to find freelance proofreading jobs online, especially if you’re new to the freelance game. They allow you to create a profile and list your services, then clients can contact you, or you can bid on available projects.
One benefit of these marketplaces is that they often take care of the administrative side for you, providing services such as invoicing clients. And if you’re new to freelancing, these marketplaces can be an easy way to get your foot in the door, gather experience, and collect testimonials you can use to pitch directly to future clients.
However, some freelancers find the competition steep and the rates on the low side, so it’s worth researching specific sites and reading reviews before signing up.
4. Apply to Specialized Proofreading Companies
There are plenty of companies, services, and platforms that hire proofreaders directly. To get you started, here are 10 companies that hire for remote proofreading jobs:
1. Reedsy
Reedsy is a book editing platform targeted toward both brand-new and well-established authors. Editors and proofreaders can apply to the platform and, if accepted, will be matched with potential clients via Reedsy’s algorithm.
Working with Reedsy provides you with access to over 150,000 authors looking for editors. The platform allows you to set your rates, but it does charge a 10% commission on any jobs you land through the marketplace.
2. Scribbr
Scribbr offers dissertation and thesis editing services for students. This is a great option for freelance proofreaders who want to build their niche in academic editing, especially as anyone who passes the initial screening test gains access to an academic training program called Scribbr Academy.
Editors at Scribbr earn a flat rate per word and are paid every two weeks. The website is regularly updated to reflect if they are currently recruiting new editors.
3. CACTUS
If you have a master’s degree or doctorate in a scientific discipline, you could be a great fit for CACTUS. This is a scholarly communication organization that provides proofreading and editing services in the fields of engineering, physics, life sciences, and medicine – another worthwhile proofreading niche!
A relevant degree is required to freelance for CACTUS, and previous editing experience is preferred but not essential.
4. Proofreading Services UK
Proofreading Services UK offers a variety of remote opportunities for proofreaders of all abilities, with available documents ranging across book manuscripts, journal articles, marketing content, and cover letters.
The company welcomes applicants from any country, but to qualify, you must pass a screening test that challenges your language skills. You’re allowed a maximum of 20 minutes to complete it, so ensure you’re prepared before you start.
5. Scribe Media
Scribe Media is a ghostwriting, editing, and book marketing service that helps budding writers get their ideas published. They recruit full-time and part-time remote proofreaders to help ensure each book is of high quality and meets industry standards.
If there are no freelance roles available at Scribe Media, you can sign up to be notified when positions open.
6. EditFast
EditFast is a one-stop shop for all kinds of editing services. Once you have passed the necessary editing tests, registering with EditFast allows you to create a web page where you list your services, rates, and contact details.
Potential clients can then browse editors’ pages and choose a proofreader for themselves, or they can allow EditFast to suggest one based on their requirements.
7. Gramlee
Gramlee focuses on quick-turnaround editing services for content writing and dissertations. If you’re looking for a smaller workload, Gramlee offers new proofreaders the chance to work on documents of 3,000 words or below, earning about three cents per word.
To apply to Gramlee, you will need to choose which area you want to work in, complete an online form, and supply a freelance resume.
8. Domainite
If you’re interested in proofreading marketing and website copy, then try Domainite – an ecommerce company that provides services across the online marketing sector. To find remote work with Domainite, you will need to submit an editing sample as proof of your abilities. You also need to confirm you understand how to use Microsoft Word’s Track Changes tool.
Domainite’s rates tend to be on the low end, but it can be a great opportunity to gain proofreading experience.
9. Wordvice
Wordvice provides academic and professional editing services predominately for ESL writers. Recruitment is always open for remote part-time proofreaders, and work is assigned based on turnaround time, relevant experience, and availability.
Wordvice does request a minimum of two years of experience in proofreading, making this a position suited to those with some work under their belts already. As part of your application, you will need to provide your expected rates and complete an editing sample.
10. Polished Paper
For proofreaders with more experience, Polished Paper offers higher-paying remote work. This company works with clients to edit all kinds of documents, including blog articles, academic papers, novels, and screenplays.
As the work available through Polished Paper tends to be more advanced, the application process is slightly more rigorous. It involves submitting your resume, passing a 35-question test, and finally ‒ if you’ve been successful ‒ undergoing an interview.
5. Build Your Online Presence
In today’s digital world, you’ll often land new clients by showing up where they spend the most time – online. So here are a few suggestions for building (and showcasing) your online presence.
Set Up a Professional Website
A website is a powerful tool for advertising your services and establishing credibility. It provides a space for potential clients to see all your information, all in one place. But what should you include? Here are the essentials:
- Your offered services and rates – Present these clearly and concisely so prospects can quickly see if you’re the right fit for their project.
- Samples and testimonials – Showcase examples of your work (after gaining permission from your previous clients, of course!) and include testimonials to prove your capabilities.
- A dedicated “Contact” page – Make it easy for potential clients to reach out via a simple contact form or email link.
If you want to take your website to the next level, you could consider creating a blog page, such as on proofreading techniques or writing tips. This adds proof of your expertise, helps with search engine optimization (or “SEO”), and can attract prospective clients searching for answers to writing-related questions.
Make sure to show off your professionalism and attention to detail with a clean site design with error-free copy. And don’t forget your visual branding ‒ this should be consistent across your website, social media platforms, and any other client communications.
Use Social Media to Network
Social media platforms aren’t just for personal use and funny cat videos ‒ they’re also great for finding professional contacts and showcasing your services. We’d recommend setting up new professional accounts so you can keep your professional and personal lives separate. Then, you can:
- Join groups or communities focused on writing, editing, and content creation on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or X
- Offer free, bite-size tips that demonstrate your expertise, such as grammar or style pointers
- Direct potential clients to your website or portfolio by including links in your social profiles
- Keep up to date with news in the writing and editing world
- Stay visible and network by engaging regularly (e.g., comment on industry posts, share relevant articles, and congratulate other professionals on their milestones)
LinkedIn is especially popular among professionals looking for remote proofreading or editing roles, but it’s not the only option. Choose a platform that you’re comfortable with, and commit to building a consistent presence there.
6. Reach Out Directly
Sometimes, the best way to land proofreading projects is by making the first move. Find businesses, authors, or publishers who might benefit from your expertise, then send them a short, polite email to introduce yourself. Be sure to mention:
- The type of work you do (e.g., academic editing, fiction proofreading, website copy checks)
- Why your services have value (e.g., how error-free content raises professionalism, boosts SEO, or increases audience trust)
- How to reach you if they’re interested in learning more
You can use email templates to get you started, but be sure to tailor your email to the person and project at hand – a basic, generic email without personalization is likely to get ignored.
Many companies maintain lists of trusted freelancers, so ask whether they accept new proofreaders. Some organizations will test your skills (e.g., through a sample edit) or require a resume before adding you to their roster.
If you don’t hear back right away, consider sending a polite follow-up. Avoid overdoing it; one short follow-up email is usually sufficient to confirm whether they’re open to hearing more.
7. Join Proofreading Societies or Groups
Professional societies and associations can be excellent resources for freelance proofreaders, providing you with networking opportunities you can’t get elsewhere. Joining a proofreading or editing society can give you access to:
- In-person industry networking events and society meetings where you can meet clients and fellow proofreaders
- Members-only online forums, where you can connect with other freelancers, and directories where you can list your services so interested clients can find you.
- Mentorship schemes or other professional development training so you can learn from experienced professionals
So, while most societies do charge a fee for membership, they are well worth the cost.
Some well-known freelance editing societies include:
- The Editorial Freelancers Association (EfA) and the Society for Editing (ACES) in the US
- The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) in the UK
- The Institute of Professional Editors Limited (IPEd) in Australia
The best group to join will depend on where you live and work. You may even be able to find smaller regional societies or chapters of the big groups if you prefer something more local!
Even if you don’t pursue membership in one of these organizations, you can look for informal groups on social media or LinkedIn that welcome proofreaders of all experience levels.
8. Network in Person
While online networking can put you in touch with clients around the world, meeting people in person sometimes creates a stronger, longer-lasting impression. Plus, some people just prefer the direct interaction! Look out for:
- Industry events where you can meet potential clients (e.g., literature festivals for meeting authors and publishing professionals)
- Conferences and other events aimed at proofreaders and editors
- Local groups and workshops for writers
- Coworking spaces shared with other freelancers
More generally, though, anywhere where people meet and talk is a chance to network! You never know when someone will mention that they’re planning a book or have a new website – or anything else that might need proofreading. The key is to be friendly, open, and on the lookout for opportunities.
9. Consider Extra Training
With so many freelance proofreaders competing for jobs, additional training can give you a strong advantage. A structured proofreading or editing course shows your commitment to professional growth and assures clients you’re qualified for the job. For instance, a well-rounded proofreading course teaches you how to:
- Identify grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies in style
- Use editing tools effectively (e.g., Microsoft Word’s Track Changes feature)
- Adapt your approach to different document types (e.g., academic papers vs. marketing copy)
When clients see formal training on your resume, online profile, or website, they’ll be more confident in your ability to produce high-quality results, potentially landing you jobs over equally talented but uncertified competitors.
Build Your Proofreading Career with Knowadays
Whether you’re a complete newcomer or a seasoned freelancer looking to grow your business, the world of online proofreading offers plenty of opportunities.
One of the most straightforward ways to break into (or advance in) freelance proofreading is to enroll in Knowadays’ courses. Our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses teach you the essential skills you’ll need, from mastering spelling and grammar rules to understanding style and tone.
Plus, if you achieve distinction scores of 80% or above in both courses, we’ll connect you with guaranteed freelance work through our partner company, Proofed. This means you can start your freelancing career right away and continue to hone your proofreading skills while earning an income. Try two free lessons today to see if Knowadays is right for you.
Updated on April 7, 2025
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