Learn how to make money as a proofreader, even if you have no experience!
Whether you're a struggling parent or a university student, work-from-home jobs are always good financial support. One of the most popular online jobs is a proofreading side hustle.
Did you know that proofreader jobs at home can earn you $40K to $55K per year on average? Most of these jobs do not require any extensive education or years of knowledge. It's a potluck opportunity if you can find proofreading jobs wisely.
We are therefore providing you with remote proofreading jobs at home that can simplify your life a bit and give you a head start in the industry.
What Is A Proofreader & What Kind Of Work Do Proofreaders Do?
Essentially, a proofreader is a final checkpoint before publishing a piece of writing (an article, or a blog). Proofreading eliminates any minute errors or mistakes within the content to ensure that it is grammatically correct.
Usually, proofreaders double-check any piece of writing that will be subject to a large audience or the public eye.
There are a number of industries where proofreaders are required. This includes magazine publishers, blogging websites, email marketers etc. Remember, the purpose of proofreading is to provide an extra level of reliability before the content is published to the public.
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Proofreading vs Copy Editing
Copy editing work and proofreading are often confused with one another. In most circumstances, it makes sense to interchange them, but these two careers are completely different.
It is imperative you understand that both of these professions serve one end goal: polishing writing pieces for online publications. Both review the documents to ensure the data is accurate.
However, copyeditors are primarily responsible for fixing content problems missed by authors. It is a matter of fluency and format of the written work. In addition to improving content quality, copy editors ensure the message of the writing is conveyed clearly.
Proofreaders, on the other hand, finalize the documents completed by copyeditors. Their job is to ensure that all text is free of typographical and grammatical errors. The purpose of proofreading is not to fix any content but rather to make it more presentable.
Are Proofreaders In Demand?
With the increasing number of blogging websites, online news sites and daily content on social media platforms, owners and creators need more freelance editors and proofreaders to check their content.
Hence why the need for proofreaders is predicted to increase by approx. 6% each other until 2029.
How Much Do Online Proofreaders Earn?
As mentioned earlier, a remote proofreader generally makes up to $48k to $63K annually. While there are many factors affecting these numbers, it’s still a pretty good deal for proofreaders working from home.
You are likely to get paid on the higher end of the range if you have earned a few qualifications or certificates for your proofreading jobs online no experience. Newcomers to the field should initially expect to work low-wage jobs and eventually work their way up.
Whether a freelance proofreader job or an office job, a salary of $50000 is sufficient to become a full-time employee. Additionally, part-time workers will still earn a good living if they can secure high-paying projects.
How To Become A Proofreader?
There is no doubt that remote proofreading jobs are more convenient than other writing jobs. However, it does require its workers to meet certain standards and requirements.
Although experience in the proofreading field will help you secure projects, having specific qualifications and skills will give you a head start amongst proofreaders.
Now let's get into more detail.
What Proofreading Skills Do I Need As A Beginner?
If you're writing for clients, you'll need high proficiency in the language. You shouldn't gamble with unfamiliar languages since you will need to deal mainly with grammar skills, which require high fluency.
It is important to note, however, that proficiency is different from pointing out errors within the content. Remember, this is the main skill required in a proofreader job.
Proofreaders must pay attention to details and nitpick every work to ensure the utmost quality. Moreover, you should always adhere to the format and brand style for client satisfaction.
Can You Be A Proofreader Without A Degree?
Yes, you can. Although some companies require you to have a bachelor's degree to be a proofreader, most depend on the experience of your employees. Any freelancer will tell you that a portfolio is more valuable than a degree.
You may benefit from studying a major in writing or a proofreading course if you want a freelance proofreader job. A degree alone will not guarantee success, however, if you lack the basic skills.
If you would like to secure a proofreading gig, it is recommended that you present a sample of your past work to the client. Having a reputation from the beginning helps you develop a positive relationship with your client.
What Proofreading Tools Do I Need?
1. Grammarly
Everyone knows Grammarly. It’s an AI tool that assists its users by improving your content's grammar, vocabulary and fluency. Moreover, it thoroughly checks the content to remove any spelling and punctuation mistakes.
2. Wordtune
Despite not being popular, there is a loyal customer base for this writing software. Wordtune's AI algorithm upgrades the quality of your content with its high-functioning AI algorithms. In addition, it offers alternative solutions for your writing that are more attractive and fluent.
Next time you have writer’s block, just Wordtune your data, and you will be good to go!
3. Google Docs
Communication with clients is a crucial aspect of proofreaders' jobs. Uploading your submitted work on a shared platform allows you to easily discuss revisions and changes within the writing piece.
Besides being time-effective, Google Docs involves a lot of client input, which improves the quality of the final product.
4. Thesaurus/ Dictionary
As a proofreader, a thesaurus or dictionary can be one of your most valuable extensions. When writing or editing content, it's easy to forget synonyms or alternative words. A massive database of the language vocabulary would come in handy here!
Best Online Proofreading Jobs No Experience Required
Several online proofreading jobs often require no experience if you're just starting in proofreading.
Best Companies For Online Proofreaders
1. Proofreading Services
It doesn't matter whether you want a part-time job or a full-time job, ProofreadingServices.com is a great site to work online proofreading. This site offers several benefits. A position at Proofreaderservices.com offers an opportunity for beginning proofreaders to gain experience, a flexible schedule, and a competitive salary.
2. Writing Jobz
Writing Jobz provides only writing services, unlike other job marketplaces. The only requirement for proofreaders is to sign up and take a language test. You can begin working as a proofreader as soon as you are successful. This is a fantastic way to begin building your portfolio of proofreading work.
3. Proofreading Pal
Pay attention if you are a student seeking a proofreading side hustle! Proofreading Pal can help you earn money while you complete your degree. With this website, students can get a head start with experience with a wide range of clients while earning competitive wages.
4. Scribe Media
Although such job boards prefer to hire experienced users, Scribe Media does not shy away from hiring beginners as proofreaders. It is possible to work a freelance job either as a full-time or a freelancer proofreader. Don't forget to subscribe to their email list even if there are no vacancies at the moment.
5. Writer’s Relief
If you wish to work on published articles and writing pieces, you might want to sign up as a Writer’s Relief proofreader. You can easily apply on their website for proofreading jobs online without experience. The company helps creative writers by providing them with professional editing skills.
Freelance Proofreading Jobs For Beginners
6. Freelancer.com
Launched in 2009, this job board is a great starting point for part-time proofreading jobs. Freelancer.com requires employees to have at least a BSc degree to approve their profile. The pay can vary depending on the clients and your portfolio. There are, however, a lot of clients who wish to work with beginners as well.
7. Upwork
Upwork is a second step for freelance proofreading jobs. You must make your profile and bid for freelance jobs for your skills. The customers on Upwork pay higher than on other platforms. A beginner proofreader with stellar skills can opt for this freelance marketplace.
8. Fiverr
If you are looking for a site with a high chance of proofreading jobs online no experience and will compromise on the price, Fiverr is the way to go. Fiverr is a go-to platform for amateur proofreaders and is used as a medium to gain experience and construct a suitable portfolio.
9. Guru
Similar to other freelance sites, Guru provides proofreaders with appropriate exposure through its extensive proofreader freelance jobs. However, this website stands out from others because of its low cut fee. Most channels require at least 20% of your income. As a proofreader on Guru, you will only be required to pay 9% of each invoice.
10. Domainite
If experience is more important to you than income, Domainite is the right choice. It is a low-paying website but offers growth potential for new proofreaders through suitable freelance proofreading jobs.
11. LinkedIn
Networking can sometimes be more effective than bidding on freelancing sites, and LinkedIn proves it every day. With this work industry social media app, you can establish ties with potential clients and secure proofreading remote jobs through meetings and discussions.
Online Proofreading Jobs That Need Experience
12. Scribbr
Scribbr is a proofreading and editing jobs platform that hires job seekers conventionally. Candidates submit their CVs to the management, and if they are suitable, they begin working either part-time proofreader jobs or as contract employees.
13. Edit911
The Edit911 platform is for you if you are an expert proofreader with a solid portfolio and a highly educated background. The website works with professionals and PhD holders to ensure high-quality proofreading and editing.
14. Wordvice
Wordvice's requirements aren't as high as most websites on this list. The company prefers proofreaders with a graduate degree with two or three years of experience in the field.
15. Cactus Communications
Cactus Communications is the place for you if you prefer academic writing in your proofreading jobs online! Proofreaders must have a PhD or a master's degree in an academic subject. A major disadvantage of Cactus Communications is that it does not compensate its employees as well as other companies do.
16. EditFast
This is another editing website that has minimal requirements from its proofreaders. Unfortunately, EditFast keeps 40% of every invoice, negatively impacting your motivation to work with the company.
17. Polished Paper
Polished Paper provides high-quality work to its clients, so its proofreaders need a lot of experience. You will likely have a good chance of getting hired if you pass the job test and interview. Moreover, they offer competitive rates for proofreaders to be attractive to those with plenty of experience.
18. Managed Editing
If you are an experienced proofreader looking for a change of pace, try applying for Managed Editing. It requires a minimum of five years of experience within the industry.
19. Wordy
If you have worked proofreading jobs online for your entire life, Wordy is the perfect place for you to shine. As one of the top proofreading service providers, this website has worked with a wide range of companies and brands. Despite the tedious hiring process, a job at Wordy is undoubtedly very prestigious.
20. Gramlee
Gramlee is a proofreading and writing editing jobs website always looking for experienced editors and proofreaders. You only need to apply through the Employee Application on their platform and wait for a response.
21. Starting Your Own Proofreading Business
If you have been a master of online proofreading jobs for a long time, now is the time to take on your former employers. As an experienced proofreader, you can gain a lot of wisdom and tips and tricks from your years in the field.
Once you have collected enough and feel confident in your proofreading skills, you can go on your own and start a proofreading business. Remember, even though it might not take off right away, sometimes you are your own best bet.
Let’s Get To Work!
It is quite overwhelming to begin a career in a saturated industry.
However, it is possible to embark on a long-term beneficial journey if you play your cards right and compromise a little at the beginning. Research which company suits you best and apply for a proofreader job on their website.
Despite initial failure, your consistency will help you in the long run. You can also start your own business if you are amongst more experienced proofreaders. Regardless, at least 21 proofreader jobs at home are waiting for you to seize the opportunity!