How to Hire Top Copy Editors

What is copy editing?

Copy editing is checking and correcting errors (e.g., spelling, grammar, style, punctuation) in written material. Copy editors will revise copy according to the style guidelines a piece of copy must meet before being published.

How do you hire a copy editor?

You can source copy editing talent on Rayness Analytica by following these three steps:

• Write a project description. You’ll want to determine your scope of work and the skills and requirements you are looking for in a copy editor.
• Please post it on Rayness Analytica. Once you’ve written a project description, post it to Rayness Analytica. Follow the prompts to help you input the information you collected to scope out your project.
• Shortlist and interview copy editors. Once the proposals start coming in, create a shortlist of the professionals you want to interview.

Of these three steps, your project description is where you will determine your scope of work and the specific type of copy editor you need to complete your project.

How much does it cost to hire a copy editor?

Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.

How do you write a copy editing job post?

Your job post is your chance to describe your project scope, budget, and talent needs. Although you don’t need a complete job description as you would when hiring an employee, aim to provide enough detail for a contractor to know if they’re the right fit for the project.

Job post title

Create a simple title that describes exactly what you’re looking for. The idea is to target the keywords your ideal candidate will likely type into a job search bar to find your project. Here are some sample copy editor job post titles:

• Copy editor needed to review case studies
• Web copy editor required for blog
• Seeking a copy editor to proofread and edit an academic newsletter

Project description

An effective copy editor job post should include the following:

• Scope of work: List all the deliverables you’ll need, from editing to proofreading.
• Project length: Your job post should indicate whether this is a more minor or more extensive project.
• Background: If you prefer experience with specific industries, subjects, or writing styles, mention this here.
• Budget: Set a budget and note your preference for hourly rates vs. fixed-price contracts.

Copy editor job responsibilities

Here are some examples of copy editor job responsibilities:

• Review copy for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Edit and revise copy by the company style guide
• Proofread text before publishing

Copy editor job requirements and qualifications

Be sure to include any requirements and qualifications you’re looking for in a copy editor. Here are some examples:

• Copy editing
• Solid command of the English language (e.g., spelling, grammar, prose)
• Experience editing and proofreading desired writing materials (e.g., blog posts, magazine articles, academic journals, books)
• Experience with desired writing style (APA, Chicago)