How to get a job as an editor

Most colleges that offer English or journalism provide students with opportunities to develop editorial and publishing skills in literary magazines, school newspapers, or internships. Taking advantage of these experiences can familiarize you with editorial work and improve your resume.

Internships, in particular, allow you to network within the publishing houses you might later apply to for work. If you've already graduated, research online literary magazines, as they routinely recruit editors to review submissions.

If you can't find (or can't afford) to take an internship, look for short-term gigs on freelancing sites. Do note that, even with a compelling profile and plenty of self-marketing, you'll probably have to take jobs that don't really interest you at first.

For instance, you might plan to specialize in developmental book editing, but you might find yourself copy-editing blogs and academic essays to start with.

A great way to get noticed by a potential employer is to develop an online presence with a personal website to showcase your qualifications and experience. An excellent way to build your work portfolio is through freelance opportunities.

You could also volunteer to edit different texts. Nonprofit organizations, for example, often look for volunteers to review their text-based materials and communications.

Building a strong editorial network is also really important. Assuming you've now got substantial editing experience, you'll have naturally accrued some contacts in your industry, online or in real life.

From literary agents to journalists, academics, and creative directors, you'll know a good number of people in different positions within your field. This holds its weight in gold when it comes to landing an editor position, which is why networking is so important.