As a freelance editor, I search for jobs on various platforms where people post RFPs (requests for proposals) for editorial work they need done. I filter the jobs I review, but even with my filters, I skim at least 100 job descriptions/RFPs each day. When I come across a job that sounds interesting (i.e., when it has a good, descriptive headline), I stop scrolling and read the description.
The following are examples of bad RFPs (but unfortunately, also very common ones):
- I need my book edited.
- I need an editor for my fiction novel. [Editor’s note: a novel is ALWAYS fiction.]
- I’m looking for a great editor that can help me with my novel.
- I am looking for someone to edit and check for grammatical errors.
Do you think any of those descriptions help me figure out (a) what kind of work the book actually needs and (b) if I’m a good fit for the job? If you said, “Nope, Sharon, I don’t think they do,” you’d be 100% correct. They don’t.
So, in an effort to make everybody’s life a little easier, I’m going to share with you what I (and I assume other editors) would love to see in a job description. Ready? Please take notes. Please share this. We must stop the madness that is “Edit my book.” (I saw that job description today.)
Here are the elements that your job description/RFP should include: Continue reading
