As I create the final issue of The Leaflet for 2023 (next issue coming January 6), I'm so grateful for all the connections we've made and things we've learned in The Proofreader Greenhouse this year. TPG launched in May of 2023, and I'm so excited about the new things coming in 2024.
Thank you for being a part of this supportive community, First name / friend. 💚
👉️ New in 2024: The Corporate Transparency Act 👈
I've seen reminders about this floating around social media recently, but in case you aren't aware, there's a new filing requirement that may affect you. The filing is mandatory for certain business entities and the fines are hefty, so check to see if your business needs to file.
New reporting requirements go into effect on January 1, 2024, under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). If your proofreading or editing business is a corporation, S-Corp, LLC, or any other entity created by paperwork filed with a Secretary of State office, be sure to check this out and take action if needed.
“Imperial” is about power (emperors and rulers). “Empirical” is about proof (evidence and observation). The word “data” in this sentence helps us know which word to choose. 💡
This Week's Featured Proofreader or Editor:
Catherine from Sea Glass Editorial
The Proofreader Greenhouse asked:
What type of content do you proofread or edit? I proofread transcripts for U.S. court reporters. I also edit and proofread nonfiction educational content and online learning courses.
Did you complete a training course for proofreaders, or are you self-taught? I started with Edit Republic's High-Level Proofreading and Copyediting Pro course and went on to complete Proofread Anywhere's Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice.
What's your favorite thing about your proofreading or editing business? I love how flexible it is. My partner and I are both self-employed and currently renovating our house while juggling the needs of our two young children, so I'm grateful to have a job that allows me to work around all the craziness! I also love the fact that I learn so much every day, and the work is so varied.
What causes you the most frustration in your business? I struggle with the inconsistent workload that goes along with being freelance. With transcript proofreading, we are at the mercy of our reporters' workloads; there are periods of very high demand and times when transcripts aren't being ordered. I'm learning to use the quieter periods to work on marketing, take additional training, or just do something nice for myself.
What tips would you like to share with other proofreaders and editors? I'm a big fan of the Pomodoro Technique, a time management method that helps me stay focused and ensures I take regular breaks.