Use your past experience
Having a strong understanding of language usage, punctuation and formatting is necessary for all proofreaders. However, picking the right clientele you work for is vital for the success of your business. Whether you’ll be proofreading for web blogs, potential novels or magazine articles. It is important to consider what background you have.
A willingness to proofread any type of work may seem like a great strategy, but it can be counterproductive. Picking projects from areas you have previously worked in or have an interest in is a great way to start. For example, if you have studied in a science background it would make more sense to start editing science articles rather than taking on editing someone’s romantic novel.
This isn’t a strict rule, but it can help you find a niche or your target market more quickly. On top of this, proofreading within your area of expertise gives you an edge and is a great way to differentiate yourself. Also it allows you to charge more for your time as you offer a more insightful service.
Once you feel comfortable completing a few projects branching out into other areas of interest is advisable. This will allow you to expand your business as well as challenge yourself.
Starting your proofreading business
Before you can legally become a business you will first need to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN). An ABN allows you to be identified by and interact with other businesses. It is also a necessary requirement by the government for tax and administration purposes before you start trading.
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Picking the right type of business structure for you and your business is vital. This determines the licenses you require, the tax you will pay and how much control you have over the business. Whether you’re by yourself as a sole trader or engaged in a partnership with a business partner. Talking to a business lawyer is a great way to ensure you pick the best structure that suits you.
Marketing your proofreading skills
People need to know your business is out there. Having a social media presence online will help attract people to your service. Facebook is a great platform to establish a business homepage with all the necessary information. Also, Twitter and LinkedIn is a great way to establish personal connections with potential clients and people in the industry.
Starting a website is a good idea to help establish your business. This is a great way for your clients to discover more about you as a proofreader. An excerpt about yourself and your experience in academia or the workforce is something you could put on your site. Sharing some of your previous projects on a website is a good idea to establish further credibility.
Picking a name and most importantly a logo will help define your proofreading business within the industry. Protecting this is critical so registering your business name and trademarking your logo is something you’ll need to do.
Building a strong market plan is a great way to see how you can penetrate the industry. You can do this by researching how your competitors market themselves and attract clients. Also market research is a great way to anticipate what challenges your business might face.
Find your price
This is something you’ll need to seriously consider. Overpricing your skill set can scare away potential customers, whereas under-pricing can bog you down in work for little reward.
The price you charge is usually based on the level of expertise in an area or experience editing you have. This can be based on an hourly rate depending on the level of work you’re undertaking. It’s important to note having a varying price for certain types of work is a good idea. You should always tailor a price by working with your client to see what suits you both for a particular project. For example editing a novel would be priced differently compared to editing an article.
Therefore, it is a good idea to talk to a business lawyer. This will allow you to form a contract that protects both you and your clients during the course of business.
Final thoughts
Starting your own business can sound like a daunting prospect, but the rewards are great. With careful planning and a strong dedication you’ll be on the right track to running a successful proofreading business in no time.
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