A Note from Julie, the Greenhouse Curator: |
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If your proofreading or editing work has felt a little slow lately, you’re not alone. I’ve been hearing the same thing from several proofreaders and editors, along with a common hesitation: “I know I could ask for referrals, but it feels awkward.” As usual, a plant analogy comes to my mind. A beautiful new leaf appeared on my philodendron this week. What stands out isn't the leaf itself, but where it came from. It didn’t require a new plant or a bigger pot. It’s just new growth from what’s already there. When work slows down, it’s easy to think the answer is somewhere “out there.” But you might not need new leads. You might already be sitting on them. |
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For those who don't know my story, here's how asking for referrals helped me: From 2016 to 2022, proofreading was my side hustle while I worked a full-time job. In 2022, I dove into proofreading full-time. This meant that I needed more clients quickly.
Instead of panicking, I emailed my existing clients and asked if they knew anyone who needed a proofreader. That one step brought in several new clients, and I was soon fully booked. No big strategy. Just a clear request. Yes, it will probably feel a little awkward. That’s normal. You’re doing something new. Keep it simple: - Email 3 to 5 past or current clients.
- Keep it short and friendly.
- Let them know you’re available and invite them to share your details with anyone who might need your help.
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For now, remember this: People are often more willing to help than you expect, especially when you’ve already done good work for them. You may already have access to more work than you realize. ✨ |
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Favorite LinkedIn Posts This Week: |
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Here are three posts I enjoyed reading on LinkedIn recently. Click the links below to read them. - There’s no one right way to freelance: Rachel reminds us that there’s no single “right” way to run a freelance business. She encourages experimenting, keeping what works, and letting go of everything else. ✨
- What “controversial” things do you do as a freelancer? Jennie reminds us that some of the best freelance decisions might look “wrong” to others but still work brilliantly. She shares real examples of doing things her own way and making it work. 💪🏻
- The human side of great client work: Even though talking to potential clients can feel intimidating, Philippa suggests that those early conversations are where the best work really begins. She shows that listening first helps uncover what clients actually need before diving in. 🤝
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I often see these words mixed up in the files I proofread. They sound similar, but they mean different things.
Parameter: a boundary, limit, or condition that defines how something works
Perimeter: the total distance around the outside of a shape
Memory tip: “Perimeter” includes “rim” → the outer edge of something
Catch of the Week screenshots come from my transcript proofreading. I can't change what a person said, but I can make sure words are spelled correctly and punctuation marks are in the right spots. If you're interested in learning more about transcript proofreading, I wrote an article about it here. |
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This Week's Featured Proofreader or Editor: |
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Becky from Dot & Cross Proofreading |
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The Proofreader Greenhouse asked: - What type of content do you proofread or edit?
I proofread books (fiction and non-fiction), website copy, STEM resources, annual reports, company brochures, newsletters, and blogs.
- Did you complete training for proofreading or editing?
I haven’t completed any formal proofreading courses.
- What's your favorite thing about your proofreading or editing work?
Having the privilege to read about such a wide variety of subjects.
- What's the most challenging part of your work?
The most challenging part is not related to the actual proofreading, it’s more about the challenges of being self-employed and therefore having to deal with everything, whether that’s chasing invoices, marketing or client liaison.
- What tip(s) can you share with other proofreaders or editors?
My top tip is to check whether or not the client has an existing style guide before you start working on a document.
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The rhododendrons around here are in full bloom. Beautiful! |
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Let's keep growing together! |
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Lexington, NC 27295, United States |
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