Do you love your copyeditor? Maybe that copyeditor is you.
- Way back in 2011, I made up Copyeditor Day.
- But don’t you think they deserve some credit?
- Or if you do your own copyediting, maybe you should pat yourself on your back.
Recognizing Copyeditor Day (even if it’s made up)
Think about it. What are the ways copyediting services help? If you want a copy of the graphic shown below, you can download the pdf version.
We really should recognize the important role of the copyeditor.
- Writers need their services.
- Businesses do, too (know a business without business communication?)
- Copyediting helps deliver your best professional result.
However, I do have one criticism.
- Which is it?
- Copyediting
- Or copy editing?
Where’s a good copyeditor when you need one?
Wearing Many Hats
While copyediting started in the print world, the need for these language masters expanded beyond the land of ink.
So many areas exist for editing services that the role split into specialized services. Master Class shares 5 Types of Editing.. and what each role does (as illustrated below). You can download a PDF copy of the types.
Skimping on copyediting is like drinking a diet soda with a 4,000-calorie meal.
Your content will still be bloated and not what you really want.
To Pro or Not to Pro
Nothing destroys credibility faster than poorly written copy. If you’re a new business on a shoestring budget, you still owe it to yourself to check out your options.
Do you have qualified copyeditors in-house? Qualified does not necessarily mean a degree in journalism or formal copyediting training. Do you have someone with the skill set for performing this service?
The following are suggestions for handling this important function.
1. Establish an editing process.
If handling in-house (or yourself), create a formal editing process for business writing. One option is separating review responsibilities, such as grammar/spell-check, fact-checking, or style review. You can do that in-house or outsource specific functions.
2. Hire a freelance writer for your copy.
If you struggle with writing and hate the editing function, you may want to hire a freelance/independent writer. Typically, the writer covers copyediting services, either personally or by outsourcing.
3. Hire a professional copyeditor.
Some writers provide both writing and copyediting services, while some freelancers specialize in editing. Professional writers hire copyeditors, too. Like any specialty, the professional copyeditor has enhanced skills for the services they offer.
4. Consider a niche specialty.
Niche specialties include areas like medical/science, statistical analysis, or web content editing. If your business has a specific need, this may be an option that makes sense.
On Your Side
Good copyeditors make your business writing (and you) look even better.
- They focus on the reader.
- And fully support your writer.
Look for someone with the editing skills and the right personality fit for your business. If they are missing a sensitivity chip, run the other way.
Share the Copyeditor Love
Take a moment today to hug your copyeditor. The good ones always have your back.
- How about you?
- Do you have the name(s) of great copyeditors? If so, please share in comments.
- Do you use these services? Or do you fly solo?
Note: This July 18, 2021 post updates the original published on July 18, 2011. Happy Copyeditor Day! 😉
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Good points here, Cathy. When I was working as a magazine editor many years ago, I remember exchanging a private smile with my sub-editor when someone complimented one of the writers on his style. That’s because he was great at ferreting out information, but not so great at structuring it. The editors made him look good. And that’s essential for business too.
Sharon-great story that proved the point. 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Amen Cathy. A good copyeditor can make a manuscript.
An experience I hope to one day have (the manuscript part).
🙂 Thanks for stopping by, Anne.
Cathy, thank you. Good story and proof to clients that copy editors are worth every penny they charge.
Couldn’t agree more, Lori. Thanks for stopping by.
First of all, I feel that it’s “copy editor” (noun) and “copy-editing.” But that’s trivial, haha. The real reason I’m commenting is I just wanted to say that I agree with one of your points. You should certainly consider skills when interviewing copy editors, but you should also consider personality. For me, as a copy editor, it’s all about the relationships I develop with my clients. P.S.: Long live “Love Your Copy Editor Day!”
Hi Dave: I would bet for every “copy editor” who spells the noun that way, there is at least one other who spells it “copyeditor.” But, I’ll let you duke it out. 🙂
I totally agree about the relationships. Isn’t that true in any professional partnership? Correcting the copy of someone takes sensitivity.
Thanks for stopping by, Dave.
You’re welcome, Cathy. I like your site, and I appreciate the motto of keeping things clear and simple.
Thank you for the compliment, Dave. Drop by any time – especially to say nice things. 🙂