In the world of writing and publishing, it is common knowledge that everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) should go through the “proofer.” Proofreaders provide a valuable and necessary job function by making sure that any grammar and spelling errors are corrected. Just because we now have spell check does not mean that proofers are out of work! So, in your small business, could you benefit from having someone look over and proofread your marketing materials or other written work?
I am not a great proofreader. I can do a passable job but I’ve had to explain to people before that I think that writing and proofreading/editing are two different skill sets. Not that a person can’t be fabulous at both, but a person can also be a grand editor and not so great in the writing department and vice versa. Even if you don’t produce a lot of written materials for your home business, you may still find that errors sneak through and tarnish the professionalism of your business.
You can hire proofreaders and copy editors. If you live in a large enough area, you can look in your phone book and find freelance editors who can help you proof materials. In this day of internet, you may even be able to find some one via the world wide web who you can send materials to and they can proof and return and you’ll never actually meet. If your budget is extremely constricted, you might be able to find a friend or colleague who will periodically look over your materials and written stuff and copy edit or proof it. For a minimum of materials, it shouldn’t be a bit job—but if you are creating big marketing campaigns, any sort of written promotional materials, or other big writing projects—you will definitely want to get someone to copy edit and proof your stuff—it just makes good business sense!
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