I've noticed a trend in the emails I receive from writers looking for a proofreader. Most of the messages include some version of this statement: "I need a reliable proofreader."

Not just "I need a proofreader." They want a reliable proofreader.

This leads me to believe that their previous proofreaders have not been reliable. Were too many errors missed? Was the deadline not met? What can I do differently to meet (or exceed) their expectations?

Here are a few ways to be a reliable proofreader or editor:

Be responsive

• I recommend responding to prospective clients as soon as you possibly can (within reason, of course). The client may be searching for a proofreader or editor for a looming deadline, and if you wait too long to respond, you might lose the job.

• Set aside time each day for responding to client emails. Some people call these office hours. Consider posting your office hours on your website (or in an email autoresponder) so clients will know when they'll hear back from you.

• Once you begin working on the project, contact the client if you experience any roadblocks that prevent you from doing your best work. If you need additional information to complete the project, let the client know right away.

Do excellent work

Every project you proofread or edit, whether big or small, should be your best work. Make sure you're alert when you're working on the project. Research anything you're not sure of. As I always say, "When in doubt, look it up."

Complete the project on time

Some of your clients are under tight deadlines themselves, so they're counting on their proofreader or editor to complete projects as agreed upon. If you've promised to complete a project by a certain deadline and something unexpected happens to prevent that, let the client know right away. Returning projects on time is one of the best ways to be considered reliable.

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I know I'm just scratching the surface with these suggestions. What other tips do you have for being a reliable proofreader or editor?

To your success,
Julie from The Proofreader Greenhouse

P.S. If you'd like to read the other articles in The Watering Can, click here. 💦

How to be a Reliable Proofreader or Editor