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Topic: Freelance Proofreader- offering Free services
| Author | Message |
| kcwritesit | Posted – 3/16/2008 11:45:24 AM | show profile | email poster Do you have a manuscript that needs a second pair of eyes? In order to build my portfolio I'd be happy to proofread a chapter of anything you are currently writing at no charge. Materials should be no shorter than ten pages and no longer than thirty pages. I can indicate corrections on Microsoft Word using the Track Changes feature, on Google Docs using its Revisions feature or on hard copy. In exchange, I ask that you allow me to add your name and the title of your work to my résumé. I will not plagiarize your work or share it with anyone else. Simply email me at: kcwritesit@gmail.com to discuss. Sincerely, ------ ~kc |
| SPF 30 | Posted – 3/16/2008 12:47:37 PM | show profile You've posted this at least twice now. At what point are you going to start charging for your work? |
| rhino writer | Posted – 3/16/2008 8:46:35 PM | show profile For a lot of proofreading jobs, you just need to take a proofreading test. Try for some of those instead of giving your work away for free. |
| kcwritesit | Posted – 3/17/2008 12:29:52 AM | show profile I appreciate your concerns, but this is actually my first time posting this ad. I got the idea from a book, and it's possible others have used it as well, which is why my posting may seem familiar. As to why I choose to offer my services for free as opposed to taking a proofreading class, the answer is simple: most classes are geared towards legal or financial proofreading and that's not my niche. The reason why I'm not charging for my proofreading service is because one of my goals is to provide copy editing for magazines (for a considerable fee), and many publications want to see that I've proofread published materials first. So I thought this would be a pretty easy way to accomplish that. If I've addressed your concerns, I hope that you would consider me for any of your proofreading needs. Thanks, kc |
| lili.floyd | Posted – 3/17/2008 1:15:45 AM | show profile That's Smart, kcwritesit Smart move, kcwritesit. I hope you get the responses you need in order to build your portfolio. It will position you properly to begin charging the fees you desire in this very competitive industry. Everyone should work free for a season (though not too long, if possible). I've seen people "bill" simply because they are expected to do so, when they really should have been trying to "build" their skills. Best to you, L. |
| kcwritesit | Posted – 3/17/2008 11:01:21 AM | show profile Thanks Lilli! This is a brand new arena for me-and though moving forward in it, I'm still shaking off doubts. Your comment has definitely bolstered my confidence! ------ ~kc |
| sofisays | Posted – 3/17/2008 2:54:36 PM | show profile Trust I have one question: How can anyone trust you will not plagerize? Or take someone's idea? It is a matter of trust, which is hard to come by, especially in this cyber world. |
| kcwritesit | Posted – 3/17/2008 6:35:22 PM | show profile | email poster Protection from plagiarism I've been thinking about that issue myself... i figure that writers who are doubtful (and I would be too) could always have me sign a non-disclosure form of some sort. ------ ~kc |
| jkaufman | Posted – 3/17/2008 11:26:06 PM | show profile You might offer your services to nonprofit organizations, for newsletters, etc. If it's something you believe in, you have another reason to do it for free, and an organization is going to look better on your résumé than a chapter of a book that may have been edited after you proofread it. |
| susanspeer | Posted – 3/18/2008 2:22:47 PM | show profile Volunteer your proofreading services "Volunteer" is perhaps a more professional sounding word choice than "work for free." Do you have a local IABC chapter? Maybe you can volunteer to help their communications person with proofing the chapter newsletter. How about the neighborhood school/PTA newsletter or a local college/university? I'll bet there are a few students who would appreciate someone going over a term paper, or even an alumni office that could use some help with a fundraising letter. Other ideas: Church, chamber of commerce, tourism/visitors bureau, neighborhood/homeowners' association. Don't forget to ask which editorial style guide you should follow. If you get a funny look in response to that question, just go with AP style. Good luck! |
| kcwritesit | Posted – 3/19/2008 1:07:48 PM | show profile Thank you so much for the great suggestions! I love the idea of "volunteering" my services as opposed to merely giving them away:) I will also consider contacting some non-profit and local community organizations to help them proofread newsletters/ web content etc. I have already received a request to help an undergrad student format her term paper using APA style, and have gladly accepted. I figure this would simply be useful for me to hone my skills and NOT for enhancing my resume. Right? In any event, I want to thank you all for your generosity in sharing your thoughts and great ideas with me. Please keep them coming:) ------ ~kc |
