How to Find Freelance Proofreading Jobs Online

Freelance proofreading can be a lucrative business that will allow you to work from home. As the demand for online writers increases, so does the demand for freelance proofreaders. Because of the global nature of the Internet, freelance proofreading jobs are easier to find than ever before.

With so many websites dedicated to helping freelancers find work, there are plenty of options to find online proofreading jobs. Besides skimming the job postings, you can network with freelance writers, editors, and others in the writing profession who might either need to hire a freelance proofreader or know of freelance proofreading jobs that are available. Although many freelance writers do their own proofreading, other professional writers, such as novel writers and screenwriters, often hire proofreaders. Use online networking to your benefit, and who knows how many referrals writers might send your way.

If you're new to freelance proofreading and are having trouble finding paying proofreading work, consider offering your service at a discounted rate, or even for free, to a non-profit organization in exchange for being able to list the work on your portfolio or resume. Perhaps ask them to give you a positive reference or testimonial to post on your site. Most non-profit organizations are under-staffed and operate on very small budgets, so many will be thrilled to enlist your services. Once you can list this experience, it will probably get easier to find freelance proofreading jobs that pay more.

Don't fall into the trap of working for free for too long, and be choosy about who you do any free work for. If you do work for free in the beginning, make sure it's for an organization or publication that will really add value to your resume/portfolio. Doing free work for shady or unheard of "start-ups" or websites won't add credibility to your profile.

Once you've successfully completed a few proofreading jobs from home, you will most likely want to build a website to advertise your proofreading services. You can use your website to attract new clients, display your credentials and list your experience. You might choose to list your rates, turn-around time, and other more specific information about the work you do. Anything that will make you stand apart from the competition is a plus.

Take advantage of freelance resource sites that allow you to list your freelance services for free. Also, list your resume to as many free job boards as possible. Make sure to include the link to your website.