CONTACT

• Correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors
• Tweaking sentences to ensure that they flow smoothly and become readable
• Adapting vocabulary to correlate with the document type and purpose
• Removing any repetition, and editing for concision
• Fixing inconsistencies, including in capitalisation and punctuation 
• Highlighting unclear sentences and suggesting logical corrections
• Where applicable, checking that citations and references are clear and correct

1. Proofreading

2. Word processing skills

Even though proofreaders rely on various software programs, skills and experience in using the most common types of word processor are essential to applicate where necessary. It may also be helpful to include relevant information about proficiency in using other types of editing tool.

3. Editing

The quality of content proofreaders provide depends significantly on their editing skills. As proofreading is the last step in the editing process, it is highly beneficial to have experience in finding structural and stylistic errors and adjusting content to improve readability. 

4. Communication skills

Written and verbal communication skills are useful to a proofreader. Proofreaders communicate with other members of the content creation team in person and writing to understand technical requirements and style guides. Strong written communication skills are key for a proofreader to understand how to convey information.

5. Attention to detail

Excellent attention to detail is a vital skill for proofreaders as they review large volumes of content and search for even the smallest mistakes. This skill shows that you’re able to provide high-quality content in a concise and practical manner, that is timely and proficient.

6. Collaboration skills

Proofreaders frequently work in collaboration with other members of the content creation team. Therefore, teamwork skills may help proofreaders collaborate effectively with colleagues. It is important to be able to accept constructive criticism and provide clear feedback to others. Proofreaders may also benefit from conflict management skills, as editing can sometimes involve resolving points of contention.

7. Quality assurance skills

Quality assurance is a process that involves implementing different techniques and frameworks to prevent errors at the final stages of editing. This process enables proofreaders to make sure text follows the style guide.

8. Research skills

Research skills play a considerable role in proofreading. Consider including these skills to show that you’re able to check facts and verify information. Most companies require proofreaders to carry out a fact-checking process to ensure that the final version contains accurate and current data. Proofreading may also involve assessing sources to verify their credibility.

9. Technical knowledge

Proofreaders rely on a wide variety of tools and software. Hence, good technical skills can be vital in working with high productivity and efficiency. Technical knowledge requirements may include basic software coding techniques and database management. It may be beneficial to develop your technical skills to help career growth.

10. Time management

As proofreaders frequently work on multiple assignments or projects simultaneously, time management skills are useful. Companies usually set deadlines for proofreaders to complete complex projects so it is important to be able to consistently prioritise tasks and make the most of time-saving techniques.

11. Style guide development skills

Style guides are an integral part of the modern content creation process. These guides may consist of multiple documents and help writers understand the requirements related to the creation and formatting of content. As companies may develop a different style guide for each individual project, the ability to create one is a beneficial skill for specialists in the editorial field.

12. Great knowledge of grammar

A thorough understanding of grammar is essential for editorial specialists as it enables them to identify and correct grammatical mistakes. This knowledge may also help you ensure a better flow of ideas and make the text read more clearly. Many potential customers that need to employ the services of a proofreader, focus their attention on this particular skill.

13. Ability to concentrate

Proofreading requires long periods of concentration, often on complex tasks. When reading through and quality checking large volumes of content, it is essential to stay focused during the entire process. A proofreader must be able to concentrate on the task at hand for several hours, and sometimes will have to work unsocial hours to complete the task.

14. Self-motivation

Proofreaders may collaborate with colleagues or work independently, depending on the project. Many employers provide staff with the opportunity to work remotely, which requires them to manage their own working hours. It is also important to be self-motived if you’re planning to become a freelance proofreader.

15. Reading skills

Recruiters and employers may use reading skills as a keyword when advertising for proofreaders. As these specialists analyse large amounts of written content within a limited time, excellent reading skills are crucial. It is important to read quickly while maintaining a high level of concentration.

16. Ability to learn and improve

The ability to constantly improve and use mistakes as learning opportunities is one of the most important skills in almost every field. Proofreading is no exception, as the industry changes and develops when new types of content emerge. It’s beneficial to learn about the most recent software and tools that may help you assess content faster and more accurately.

17. Social media management skills

Social media plays a considerable role in content creation and distribution. Sometimes proofreaders work with documents that companies plan to publish on various social media platforms. Social media-based management skills may help proofreaders better understand their audience and adjust the content in accordance with the most relevant requirements.

18. Translation

Even though the ability to translate content for international markets is not a general requirement for this job, some proofreaders benefit from this skill. With many businesses being transnational, there is a significant demand for proofreaders with proficiency in several languages.