Editor

Description:

A magazine/website editor is responsible for the quality of the written content of a magazine or website. The editor commissions articles and features on the subject area, and ensures the standard and style of writing is suitable.

Editors are expected to have a comprehensive knowledge of their subject, whether that is cosmetics, travel, video games or business. A background in journalism is essential, as is a high standard of written English. 

Duties:

• Commissioning articles, reviews, and features
• Outsourcing to freelance journalists
• Coming up with ideas for features
• Managing a team of in-house writers
• Staff meetings on content, direction, and planning
• Editing submissions – checking for style and content
• Researching the latest events and changes in the subject of the magazine
• Networking and attending conferences, events, and seminars
• Writing content for the magazine
• Proof-reading the entire publication before it goes to print

Entry Criteria:

Editing is a natural progression from a role such as staff writer. Experience as a freelance journalist is also valid. Using your contacts and networking wisely will help you land a job as an editor. Promotions to the role of editor often take place in house.

• University degree is preferable, but not always essential
• Training courses (such as those operated by the NCTJ)
• Considerable work experience as a journalist
• An excellent standard of English
• The ability to be organized, motivational, and creative
• Able to work to tight deadlines

Salary Information:

• Salaries vary depending on employer, type of magazine (weekly, monthly etc) or website and subject
• The largest national publications offer the highest salaries
• Average starting salary is around £24,000
• Salaries can progress quickly, with experienced editors often earning £40k+
• Overtime if sometimes necessary
• May require weekend/evening work, particularly when deadlines approach
• Office-based work, with occasional travel (sometimes international travel)

Career Path:

The position of editor is a natural step up from staff/senior writer. There are various types of editors, including features editor, commissioning editor, deputy/assistant editor, and main editor.

A sideways move into a new magazine or field related to editing (such as reporting, newspaper editing, or another type of magazine journalism) can enhance your career. You can also progress into a more senior role with a publishing house, or become a publisher yourself.

Major Employers:

• EMAP
• Haymarket Publishing
• Future Publishing
• Other major publishing houses
• Web-journalism is also a viable industry

Similar Jobs:

• Editor-in-chief
• Sub-Editor
• Freelance journalist
• Reporter/Newspaper journalist

Links and Contacts:

• National Union of Journalists
• National Council for Training of Journalists
• PPA

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