Mark
(Setting Your Own Schedule)

Do you like the idea of setting your own schedule? Would you like to fit work around your hobbies and passions, rather than the other way around?

Since completing our Becoming A Proofreader course, Mark has been able to do exactly that. As a freelance proofreader, he has the flexibility to earn an income on his own terms. This lets him focus on caring for his elderly parents while still having time to enjoy his many hobbies.

Take a look at our catch up below.

Hi, Mark! What made you consider Becoming A Proofreader

I really wanted and needed to have a job that had flexible hours and allowed me to travel.

What were you doing before you started the course?

I was a personal trainer.

Was the course good value for money?

I took another course after the Knowadays course, just to up my knowledge, but even though that course was twice the cost, it was a waste of my money. The Knowadays course had better material and was put together in a format that was much easier to use.

What has been the single best benefit of having done the course?

I will never make a mistake with the serial comma ever again! Just kidding. Freedom. I now have the freedom to work when I want, how much I want, and where I want. That is amazing.

“I now have the freedom to work when I want, how much I want, and where I want. That is amazing.“

How has your transition to working as a freelance proofreader with Proofed been?

The transition has been great. It was slower getting regular work than I expected, but now things are picking up. I just signed on to do some keyword optimization for them. The Proofed team is great to work for. I really appreciate them. They are very communicative, helpful, and professional.

What do you enjoy most about proofreading?

I have mostly proofread ESL papers so far, and the thing I enjoy about proofreading those is helping someone find the right words to express what they are truly trying to say. It is also a bit like a puzzle to solve. You have to be a detective and figure out what is being said and how best to say it without changing any of the meaning. It is slow and challenging but rewarding as well.

How has life changed for you as a freelance proofreader?

I now have flexibility in my work choices and subsequent freedom in my life because of that.

What is your day-to-day routine like now?

It is fairly random. I am caring for elderly parents, so I have tasks relating to that. I play violin and piano every day, compose, write, read, take walks, juggle, and work when needed.

Is there any advice you’d give to someone who is currently thinking about taking Becoming A Proofreader?

I did the whole course twice before taking the test. Go slow and be thorough so you really learn the material.

Is there anything else you want to share?

I would just say that changing careers isn’t comfortable, but with some work it is possible for anyone. I wouldn’t say proofreading is my passion, but it provides me with the flexibility to pursue my passions. So, I am grateful for that.

Becoming A Proofreader or Editor

If you’d like a new career where setting your own schedule is the norm, freelance proofreading and editing could be for you. Our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses cover everything you need to know to get started. You can even try them for free!