If you are a writer of an ebook you definitely get others to proof-read your work, right? Is
proof-reading one of those tasks that if you had the option you would rather take the
garbage out to the bottom of the driveway and tolerate the stench then have to sit down
for a session of proof reading (not unless it’s your passion of course)? Because of the
nature of the business and the reading required to provide this service those that are
proof-readers are normally in great demand. By hiring a proof-reader you have the
advantage of having someone from the “outside” looking over your work thereby
increasing the chances of your work looking professional, well written and helping make
it an even better read. Proof-readers are troopers, long nights, blurry eye’s, a temporarily
forgotten spouse...just kidding. So mentally focused on the work at hand, seeking
mis-spelled words like a heat seeking missle and placing exclamation marks where there
should only be periods. Proof-readers are often sought for their services from virtually
almost all industries, called on to create sales brochures or promotional pamphlets.
Thanks to the launch of the internet they are more widely accessible. They are called
upon from professionals from all walks of life, doctors, lawyers, accountants. If you
think about it their like a literary first aid kit, they patch up your grammatical mistakes.
Some writers hire proof-readers for their final drafts, they are familiar with the way most
documents are supposed to be properly structured. Proof-readers are always there when
you need them, most use a checklist to make the process as painless as possible especially
for them days when it feels like it’s a Monday. Most approach proofing in a systematic
way, breaking the tasks into segments or sections completing them one at a time so the
job at hand doesn’t seem so big. Some have “their” way that works perfect for them but
not for others, everyone’s different. What you can’t see or don’t notice proof-reader’s
usually do. Some are even fluent in many different languages but be prepared to pay for
such a valuable service. When seeking the services of a proof-reader cash may not
always be required, although I’m sure they would prefer cash instead of an exchange of
services don’t count out the bartering process totally. Some may also provide
copywriting services that pack a punch with your target market, treat your proof-reader
like the “diamond” they are and send them the occasional thank-you card. Proof-readers
are a valuable tool, the next time you see one salute him or her (I wouldn’t recommend
kissing the shoes though).
About the Author
Brian is a freelance writer and owner of www.theebookking.com. He publishes a monthly newsletter called The Ebook King Chronicles.