Generally, the editor manages the daily operation of a newspaper, magazine,
or book publishing company. Depending on the size of the organization there are
a variety of editors to take on different responsibilities. Click on the links below
to see the specific ways editors work in different media.
It can be a long road, filled with long hours, low pay, discouragement,
and burn-out. But, the rewards are many. Editors work in a creative environment,
with talented people, and get to be on the cutting edge of ideas and news.
There are definite perks that go along with being an editor!
The editor provides the vision for the publication. She can see far and wide, connects
the vision with a public, and keeps the content flowing in the direction of the vision.
The common path for editors is through English, communications, or journalism
majors at college. The next step is tricky. Make sure your proofreading and
computer skills are up to speed. If you find it hard to get into the editorial
department of a publication, try the advertising and production departments. Editors come
from these areas since an editor must work with both in his capacity as boss.
He should know
everything that goes on at the publication. He will be responsible for hiring a staff and
firing people who aren't working out. He is responsible for budgets. He must look closely
at legal questions posed by stories his publication is running. He must talk with advertisers
about what the publication is doing.
Many new graduates start as editorial assistants. It's been likened to a
clerical position but is a chance to observe what takes places at the editor
level. You could call it a mentoring position. Figure on spending two years
at this level. You need to persevere through this period to step up to the next rung
on your career path.
Book Editors
Magazine Editors
Newspaper Editors
If you have any questions about careers in writing, editing, copywriting
don't hesitate to ask!
Back to the Career Development Page
For those new to the Net or overwhelmed by the nature of the
online job market I suggest you look at the Cyber Search Tutorial.There
are more job boards and classifieds from metro newspapers.
Don't forget to visit Sunoasis Joblog for
daily updates on the writing and publishing industry.
