Freelancer Resources: Proofreading and Editing Societies
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Worried that freelance proofreading might mean working in isolation? Luckily, there are plenty of proofreading and editing societies around. These offer various services, including:
- Opportunities to network with other editors and proofreaders.
- Additional training and advice to help you improve as an editor.
- Methods for promoting your services and gaining new clients.
- Access to industry news, resources, and events.
But which societies should you aim to join? Below, we offer a few tips.
Proofreading and Editing Societies in the UK and Ireland
In the UK, the major group for freelancers is the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP). Formerly the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP), it offers members access to training, free and discounted resources, and networking opportunities. It also has an online directory, where members can advertise their services to potential clients.
In addition, completing the Becoming A Proofreader course will give you points towards the CIEP membership level system, which is an extra incentive to sign up!
Other options include EPANI in Northern Ireland and the AFEPI in the Republic of Ireland.
Proofreading and Editing Societies in the USA
In the US, the two of the most prominent groups for freelance editors and proofreaders are the Society for Editing (ACES) and the Editorial Freelancers Association (EfA). Both offer training, resources, networking opportunities, and access to a membership directory.
Both the above also run regional groups and meetings. But if you’re looking for something closer to home, it is worth checking for local groups in your area. Prominent examples include the Bay Area Editors’ Forum, the Northwest Editors Guild, and the San Diego Professional Editors Network. However, many smaller groups also exist, so it is always worth doing a little research.
Proofreading and Editing Societies in Australia
In Australia, the major group for freelances is the Institute for Professional Editors (IPEd). As well as an accreditation system and various resources, IPEd has a member directory to make it easier to promote your services. It also has regional branches in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia, and New Zealand.
Other Groups and Societies
As well as the national groups above, there are some international editing societies associated with specific fields or industries. Some major examples of these include:
- Council of Science Editors (CSE)
- Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS)
- European Association of Science Editors (EASE)
- Eastern Mediterranean Association of Medical Editors (EMAME)
- Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing (SABEW)
- International Society of Managing and Technical Editors (ISMTE)
If you work in any of these areas, then, you may want to look at joining!
Many proofreading agencies, moreover, run private social media groups or chat channels for freelance editors. This includes our proofreading partner, Proofed, which has a LinkedIn group where freelancers can share their experiences, advice, and support.
Becoming A Proofreader
Interested in becoming a freelance proofreader? Take our Becoming A Proofreader course and in just 45–50 hours you’ll learn everything you need to know to start proofreading professionally! Sign up today or try our free trial.
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