Editor: Melissa Fanella Company: Freelance & Lead Editor for TextGoods Number of years in editing: Three years
Tell us a little about yourself, including how you got started as an editor?
I edit as a side-gig and got started on a freelance platform. My degree is in writing and I have done a lot of writing in my jobs in the education and nonprofit sectors, but editing as an actual role only began about three years ago when I sought out freelance work.
What is your area of focus and why did you select this niche?
Currently, I edit and manage a team of editors in the blog content niche. Our topics have no bounds, but our format is somewhat particular. Our company can be pretty high-volume at times, and our team can consist of more than 150 writers during peaks in business.
It kind of selected me. The topics were really interesting and my first team of writers really hooked me. I learned pretty quickly that I enjoy helping someone develop their writing and refine their work to be its best.
Walk us through a typical workday. How do you manage your time?
Well, because I am freelance (and also hold a full-time job), I work mainly nights and weekends. In my role, I also hire writers and help manage editors. I try to compartmentalize non-editing tasks as much as possible, so when it comes to working with someone's writing, I can be 100% focused.
What is your favorite thing about being an editor?
Helping someone's writing be its strongest and deliver a clear and engaging message to the reader. Also, helping the writer reach user intent and go beyond it to exceed expectations.
What is your biggest challenge and how do you work through this?
My biggest challenge is trying to figure out how to edit full-time. I love it and it's one of very few things in life I feel comfortable saying I'm really good at. But I have always had another FT job as security.
What are you currently working on?
I am still working with our blogging team, but am trying to make a little more time for my writing, as well.
What advice do you have for someone who is just starting their career as an editor?
Start early! Learn and get as much practice as you can. Develop a strong portfolio. Get good at selling yourself and don't be shy about it.
