proofread your work!

I can't believe I have to say this, but proofread your cover letters! Over the weekend I had two editors complain to me about the number of cover letters they've received with spelling and grammatical mistakes, and it's not the first time I've heard it. I have to say, I'm flabbergasted. For whatever job you're applying to, but especially for jobs like editing, you have to hand in an application free of mistakes. A big part of an editing job is ensuring an error-free publication; your cover letter and résumé are the first indication of whether you're capable of doing that. Having mistakes shows not only that you can't do that, but also that you don't pay attention to detail, you're sloppy and that you don't have an understanding of the job you are applying to. I thought proofreading was common sense. But, since apparently it's not, I'll say it again: proofread your work!

how much?

A few weeks ago, I was speaking to a friend about a freelance proofreading gig she was applying for. What got me was that the publication she was dealing with requested that she keep in mind that they were a small operation with a limited budget, and should quote her rate accordingly. Essentially, they were pressuring her to reduce her rates. My advice to her: Quote your usual rate (or slightly above), letting them know that you're willing to negotiate (provided that you are, in fact, willing to). This establishes the worth of your work while signalling that you are flexible. It's also a good idea to decide what your minimum is before beginning negotiation; you'll be mentaly prepared to walk away if they're unwilling to pay a fair amount.

what do I charge?

Curious as to how much your work is worth? One handy resource is the What To Pay a Writer page on the Professional Writers Association of Canada website.