TaraThe Pros of Being a Freelance Editor
There are so many reasons to love being a freelance editor! Here are some of the best parts of the job.
Choose your clients and projects
Work is so much more fulfilling when you’re doing something you’re passionate about. As a freelancer, you can choose the clients and projects you want to take on. You don’t have to grind through topics that don’t interest you, and you don’t have to work with a difficult client if you don’t want to.
Charge what you’re worth
When you work for yourself, you can charge as much as you’re worth. You, and you alone, make the decisions when it comes to your rates. As you improve your skills, you can increase your prices and earn more!
Work as little or as much as you want
In most jobs, you’re required to work a certain number of hours per week. However, as a freelancer, you call the shots. You can make it a side hustle or a full-time job.
Create your own schedule
Freelancing is great for anyone who doesn’t want to work traditional hours. Parents can adjust their work schedules to fit around their kids’ activities. Freelancers with a day job can fit editing around their work schedule. Night owls can work at 3 am if they want to!
Work wherever you want
Freelance editors can work from home, share a coworking space, rent an office, or even work at a cozy local coffee shop.
Low overhead costs
Freelance editing doesn’t require a lot of equipment or space. Overhead costs are very low. You need a good computer or laptop, word processing software, an Internet connection, and perhaps a copy of The Chicago Manual of Style. That’s about it!
The Cons of Being a Freelance Editor
Every good thing has its downsides. Here are a few of the more difficult aspects of being a freelance editor.
You always need to be looking for work
Marketing yourself may not be the most fun part of the job, but it’s essential if you want to keep the flow of business going. Sure, you may have some great repeat clients, but you can’t count on them. You always have to be marketing yourself online and bringing in new business.
No one else is making sure you do your work
Some people find they have no problem with this, but others find self-motivation to be a major challenge. It can be difficult to keep yourself accountable to your schedule and deadlines.
Working from home can be isolating
While some people thrive when working from home, others find it isolating and difficult. If you’re going to become a freelancer and work on your own, you may need to work harder to fulfill your social needs.
The pay isn’t always steady
As a freelancer, you aren’t getting a steady salary. You may have some months when you make a lot of money, and other months when you make less. It’s important to be mindful of this and manage your budget accordingly.
Ready to become a freelance editor?
If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and decided that freelance editing is right for you, you’re in the right place! Check out my How to Start a Freelance Editing Business Quickstart Guide and get started on the next chapter of your career!
