21 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $45/hour)

Last updated on 13th March, 2024 at 12:16 am

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So your here to find online proofreading jobs?

Or perhaps you’re still contemplating if this proofreading job is the one for you?

Hold up…

Did that opening sentence make you cringe a bit? Lol…

Mind you. I purposely wrote it that way.

Let me tell you, even Grammarly is giving me a side-eye for not fixing it to “you’re.”

And my inner introvert keeps telling me, “Just change it already!”

But guess what? I’m rebelling against perfect grammar (at least only for the opening sentence, lol).

So, grammar sleuth. If you’ve got a knack for spotting snazzy mistakes, you’re practically tailor-made for the world of online proofreading jobs.

But let me tell you something, it’s not just about showing off your skills; you can turn your keen eye into some serious cash by offering your proofreading services.

Here’s the fun part – you can earn up to $45 per hour as a proofreader. Plus, you get to call the shots on your schedule and work from literally anywhere.

Sounds like the dream job for introverts, right?

Now, if you’re seriously eyeing this proofreading job or considering starting your own freelance proofreading business, rest assured that the start-up costs for this job are low, making it an accessible option for beginners looking to break into the industry.

Here are some related posts you might find interesting:

• 8 Best Work-from-Home Jobs That You Should Consider
• 7 Smart Ways to Make $150 a Day From Home
• The Introvert’s Guide to Make Money Online: Practical Framework for Achieving Success

Like, Seriously, What Is Proofreading?

Imagine proofreading as being the ultimate taste-tester for a mouthwatering dish right before it hits the table.

Your job? Making sure every flavor, spice, and texture come together in a perfect symphony.

You’re the culinary spell-checker, catching those sneaky typos or flavor hiccups that could spoil the feast.

Just like a chef wouldn’t want a dash of salt where it doesn’t belong, you ensure words play their delicious roles without any accidental seasoning.

It’s that final sprinkle of magic before your content is served—pristine, polished, and ready to wow your audience.

The Proofreading Process

Here is what the process of a proofreading job looks like:

Reviewing the text: You start by thoroughly reading the entire text, paying attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes.

Correcting errors: Once you identify any errors, you need to make the necessary corrections using the appropriate editing tools or by manually editing the text.

Formatting consistency: You ensure that the formatting of the text is consistent throughout, including headings, font styles, and indentation.

Fact-checking: If any factual information is presented in the text, you verify its accuracy to ensure that it is reliable.

Final review: After making the necessary edits, you go through the text once more to ensure that no errors have been overlooked.

Proofreading vs. Editing: What Sets Them Apart?

You know, it’s a bit like people confusing pasta with noodles – happens more often than you’d think.

The same mix-up tends to go down between proofreading and editing.

While they are both crucial steps in the writing process, they serve different purposes and require different skill sets.

Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between proofreading and editing.

Proofreading primarily focuses on ensuring the accuracy and correctness of the text. It involves meticulously reviewing the content for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

By carefully examining each word and sentence, proofreaders eliminate inconsistencies and improve overall readability.

Editing, on the other hand, goes beyond the surface-level corrections and delves deeper into the content. It involves refining the structure and flow of the text, enhancing clarity, and optimizing the overall coherence.

Editors work on improving the sentence construction, eliminating redundancies, and ensuring the message of the document is effectively conveyed.

Weighing the Upsides and Downsides of Being a Proofreader:

Proofreading is a job that comes with its own set of perks and pitfalls. Let’s break down the ups and downs so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Upsides:

Flexible working hours: As a proofreader, you have the flexibility to choose your working hours. This allows you to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and other commitments.

Work from anywhere: One of the biggest advantages of being a proofreader is the ability to work from anywhere. As long as you have a reliable internet connection, you can work from the comfort of your own home or even while traveling.

Skill development: Consider it as your language workout. Proofreading hones your language skills, sharpens your eye for detail, and kicks your critical thinking into high gear.

Variety: Imagine you are flipping through channels on TV. You’ll have the opportunity to read a wide range of content, from academic papers to marketing materials, keeping things interesting.

Potential for good income: Proofreaders can earn a good income, especially if they establish themselves as experts in their field. With experience and a solid client base, you can increase your rates and earn a substantial income.

Low start-up costs: Unlike other professions, starting a career as a proofreader doesn’t require a significant financial investment. The tools and resources needed are minimal, making it a cost-effective way to enter the world of freelancing.

Downsides:

Isolation: Working alone for long periods might not suit everyone, and there’s limited interaction with colleagues.

Tight deadlines: Proofreading often involves working with tight deadlines, especially when dealing with clients who require quick turnarounds. Meeting these deadlines can sometimes be challenging and may require you to work efficiently under pressure.

Monotony: Proofreading can become repetitive, especially if you’re working on similar types of content day in and day out.

Uncertainty: Freelance proofreading gigs might not always provide a stable income, and finding consistent work can be challenging.

The Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

Before you start applying for any of the proofreading jobs I’ve lined up for you, there’s something I would highly recommend you do first: take Caitlin’s free 76-minute workshop on kickstarting your proofreading journey.

Let me tell you – this workshop? It’s a hit for a reason. Trust me, it’s worth every second of your time.

So, do yourself a favor and give it a whirl.

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Now let’s get straight to the list.

Freelance Websites

If you are a complete beginner and wish to dip your feet into the proofreading world, I would suggest starting with these freelance websites.

Think of them as bustling online marketplaces, connecting you (the talented proofreader) with clients eager to polish their written content.

You get to work on diverse projects, hone your skills, and be your boss, while clients gain the magic touch of your eagle eye.

While these platforms do take a small commission (usually 10-20%), they offer a sweet perk: they handle the marketing legwork, leaving you free to focus on what you do best – perfecting the written word.

1. Upwork

Upwork, the Mount Everest of freelance platforms, needs no introduction. Proofreaders worldwide flock here for diverse projects, so competition here also scales new heights (fierce).

But think of it like a crowded market with endless possibilities.

Craft a killer profile that showcases your editing prowess and convince clients you’re the missing piece to their puzzle. Your future clients will come knocking (or clicking, rather).

Once you steady your feet, gradually climb the pricing ladder and claim your rightful place at the peak.

Bonus Tip: Don’t just offer generic proofreading services. Highlight specific niches like academic, legal, or creative writing to attract targeted clients willing to pay premium rates.

2. Freelancer

Next on the list is the fancy neighbor, Freelancer: the quirky cousin of the freelance platform world.

You’ve got all sorts of gigs up for grabs here, including plenty of proofreading jobs.

You create a profile showcasing your skills and experience, then you can start browsing through the job listings. From blog posts to e-books, there’s no shortage of content in need of a proofreader’s touch.

Once you find a gig that catches your eye, you can submit a proposal outlining why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

Just remember, Freelancer takes a small fee (like Robin to Batman) – 10% or $5 for fixed-price jobs, 10% for hourly ones.

3. PeoplePerHour

Have you ever heard of PeoplePerHour? This platform’s like a secret handshake for freelancers, connecting you with clients needing your proofreading skills.

You get 15 free “proposals” each month to pitch your proofreading skills to potential clients. But if you need more proposals, you can top up your credits, and guess what? They even roll over to the next month.

However, PeoplePerHour doesn’t just let anyone through the door. They take quality seriously, so applications are reviewed before you join the platform.

4. Guru

This website might not be the flashiest name in the freelance game but don’t underestimate its potential. While programmers and developers may dominate the platform, proofreaders and editors have a place too.

Sure, you won’t find the same bustling crowds as Upwork, but that means less competition and more opportunities to shine.

Guru takes a small cut (5%-9%) of your earnings, depending on your membership plan. Don’t worry, the basic plan is free, letting you test the waters before diving in.

5. ClearVoice

ClearVoice is more like a curated boutique for proofreaders seeking quality gigs. This platform connects you with top brands and serious clients, not just random gigs.

Think Fortune 500 companies crafting killer content and needing your eagle eyes to make it shine.

The catch? ClearVoice isn’t open to everyone.

They have high standards, so you’ll need to be a top-notch proofreader with a proven track record.

But hey, if you’re confident in your skills and ready to take your freelance game to the next level, it’s worth checking out.

If you are accepted, you will have access to exclusive, well-paying proofreading gigs.

Job Boards Listings

Swipe right for your next job. These job boards are your dating apps for careers.

6. FlexJobs

The very first job board that comes to mind is FlexJobs.

If you’re looking to kick back in your pajamas while working remotely from home, this is the place you’ll want to check out.

Now, here’s the thing about remote gigs: you need to have your cozy corner sorted and your Wi-Fi game strong.

I mean, who wants to deal with glitchy connections when you’re trying to hustle, right?

Anyway, back to FlexJobs. This place isn’t just your average job board. It’s like the VIP section for freelancers, offering a legit array of gigs, including sweet proofreading jobs.

But there’s a little catch. FlexJobs asks for a $15 monthly membership fee (totally cancelable anytime, no strings attached).

So, if you’re serious about scoring some top-notch work-from-home opportunities, that $15 might just be the ticket to your dream job(s).

7. Linkedin

In my opinion, LinkedIn isn’t just a job board; it’s more like a social network designed for professionals.

However, since it has a feature called “Job Board” where you can search for remote jobs, I decided to include it in the job boards category.

With LinkedIn, you have the potential to connect directly with potential clients without using a third party as a middleman.

But before you start reaching out to clients, I strongly suggest you make sure your profile gives the impression that you’re a skilled proofreader.

In other words, flaunt your skills and abilities with words in your profile.

Just a little tip: don’t forget to set the #opentowork badge on your profile picture so recruiters know you’re available.

8. ProBlogger

Think of ProBlogger as your go-to spot for snagging freelance gigs.

Sure, most gigs are for bloggers and editors, but there’s a hidden corner for proofreading jobs too. It’s perfect for newbies because a lot of the postings come from individual bloggers or small businesses.

That means landing your first project might be easier than you think. But hey, don’t let your guard down – competition can get pretty intense.

9. Indeed

While Indeed is not the only place for such jobs, it’s a great starting point. You can easily filter through tons of listings to find the perfect match.

Just type in “proofreading”, “editor,” “freelance copyediting,” and maybe “remote” if you like working in your PJs.

Sure, there might be other eager beavers looking for the same prize, but with a sparkling resume and the right keywords, you can snag that first proofreading job and strut your grammar muscles.

10. Glassdoor

Proofreading gigs are cool, but imagine knowing if a company walks the walk. Glassdoor lets you see how employees rate their companies.

In other words, peek behind the curtain and see what working at different companies is like. Is work-life balance a nightmare? Are paychecks subpar? You’ll know before you apply.

Think of it as an x-ray vision for company culture. Now you can find your dream job where you thrive, not just survive.

Online Proofreading Companies

If searching on freelance sites and job boards is not your cup of tea, then this category is for you.

Proofreading companies offer another path to online editing bliss. They connect you with clients and a steady stream of projects, perfect for those who crave structure and support.

Some companies have more gigs than others, so choose wisely to avoid waiting in the wings for your editing cue.

11. ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal is searching high and low for remote freelancers who’ve got at least five years of experience under their belts. If you fit the bill, this could be your ticket to a steady stream of proofreading goodness.

Here’s where it gets interesting. According to them, their long-term employees are raking in anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per month. Yes, you read that right.

That’s some serious money for polishing up those commas and fixing typos.

12. EditFast

EditFast is all about welcoming skilled freelance proofreaders who know their way around medical jargon, technical manuals, legal documents, and even juicy novels.

To join this company, you will need to upload your CV, complete an editing test, and sign a non-disclosure agreement.

You will get paid via PayPal. They keep 40% of each project payment, and you pocket the rest, a sweet 60%.

13. Proofreading Services

If you’re looking for full-time work or just itching to flex your editing muscles as a side hustle, Proofreading Services deserves a bookmark.

They offer proofreading jobs with pay ranging from $19 to $46 per hour. Not too shabby, right?

But before you can join them, you have to prove your chops. They’ll hit you with a 20-minute test to make sure you’ve got what it takes to join the proofreading party.

14. Reedsy

Reedsy hooks you up with authors, from fresh faces to big-time bestsellers, who are in dire need of your proofreading skills.

Creating an account here won’t cost you a dime – it’s free. Once you are approved, your profile will be listed in the Reedsy marketplace.

Reedsy’s got some fancy algorithms working behind the scenes to match you up with clients who are the perfect fit for your skills.

For every project you tackle, you get to pocket a cool 90% of the pay.

15. Gramlee

This platform connects you with top-notch clients. They work with freelance proofreaders and editors (that could be you!), offering remote work and the chance to make a real impact.

Applying is as smooth as your future edits – just fill out their online form, and if your skills impress, they’ll be knocking on your virtual door.              

Gramlee offers proofreading and editing services at a rate of three cents per word for projects up to 3,000 words.

16. CACTUS Communications

Here’s the scoop on CACTUS: They’re all about specialization. That means if you’ve got expertise in a specific field, you’re in luck.

We’re talking medical stuff, biology, molecular biology – you name it, they’ve probably got a gig for it.

To hop on board as a freelance proofreader, they prefer you to have a master’s or doctorate in one of these fields, but hey, if you’ve got the skills and the knack for editing, they’re all ears.

17. Lionbridge

Lionbridge is all about outsourcing different tasks to its remote workers, and guess what? They’ve got their fair share of online proofreading jobs up for grabs too.

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it – you might need a bit of prior know-how to hit the ground running here.

But hey, the good news is that Lionbridge has built quite a name for itself in the biz, so it could be an awesome place to kickstart your proofreading journey.

18. Scribendi

At Scribendi, they’re all about polishing up text until it shines like a new penny. Whether it’s a business report, a scholarly article, or the next best-selling novel, they’ve got you covered.

What sets Scribendi apart is how they go the extra mile to match you with projects that make your heart sing.

They want you to work on stuff that gets you excited. Plus, they’re big on investing in their proofreaders’ skills, offering free online training to help you level up your game.

19. Wordvice

Crave work-life balance? Wordvice offers remote proofreading, ideal for part-time schedules.

When you’re applying here, Wordvice gets straight to the point. They want to know what you bring to the table – your expected pay rate and the proofreading and editing services you’re offering.

So, get your ducks in a row and be ready to lay it all out.

20. Scribbr

They’re all about helping students make the grade with their academic proofreading and editing services.

Scribbr only hires native English speakers who meet their strict application requirements.

That means you’ve got to show off your A-game when it comes to academic writing, nail those technical grammar skills, and prove you’re the editing guru they’re looking for.

21. Clickworker

Ever heard of Clickworker.com? It’s a hub for all kinds of tasks that need doing, and that includes proofreading jobs.

While Clickworker offers proofreading opportunities, some say the pay isn’t exactly hitting the jackpot.

Makes sense though, right? They’re not super picky about who joins the team, so the pay might not be top-tier.

Are Proofreaders In Demand or Just a Passing Fad?

In today’s digital age, the demand for online proofreading jobs is on the rise, and it’s no surprise. With the internet flooded with content, the need for skilled proofreaders has never been greater.

Companies and individuals rely on proofreaders to ensure their documents are free from grammar, punctuation, spelling, tense, and readability errors.

The proofreading job market is teeming with opportunities, both for freelance proofreaders and those looking for full-time employment.

Many companies and individuals are willing to pay for the services of skilled proofreaders who can help them present their content in the best possible way.

From online publications to e-commerce websites, the demand for proofreaders spans across various industries.

Moreover, the demand for proofreaders extends beyond the digital realm.

Traditional industries, like publishing houses and printing companies, also rely on proofreaders to ensure that manuscripts, books, and printed documents are error-free before they go to print.

This demonstrates that proofreaders are valued professionals in both online and offline arenas.

But the Real Question Is… How Much Money Can You Rack Up From Proofreading?

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics says that proofreaders rake in about $23.45 an hour on average, which adds up to around $48,770 a year.

But keep in mind that the average hourly rate for proofreaders can vary depending on factors such as experience, specialization, and location.

Generally, freelance proofreaders can earn anywhere from $15 to $50 per hour, while those working for companies or agencies may earn salaries ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 per year.

Again, these figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances.

What Proofreading Skills and Qualifications Do I Need?

As a freelance online proofreader, you need a bunch of skills to nail the job. Here’s the lowdown:

Exceptional Eye for Detail: You must be super sharp at spotting spelling and grammar mistakes. It’s all about catching those sneaky errors that slip under the radar.

Good Grasp of Grammar: Know your stuff when it comes to grammar rules. This means understanding common mistakes and how to fix them. Think subject-verb agreement, punctuation, and sentence structure.

Ability to Focus: Proofreading takes serious concentration. You need to be able to dive into text for long stretches without losing focus. Find a quiet spot, minimize distractions, and get in the zone.

Organizational Skills: Juggling multiple projects and deadlines? No problem. Keep things organized by prioritizing tasks, tracking progress, and staying in touch with clients. It’s all about staying on top of things and keeping the workflow smooth.

Strong Communication Skills: Whether it’s making sure you understand what they want or chatting about changes, being clear is super important for doing a great job.

Time Management: Proofreading often involves tight deadlines, so being able to manage your time effectively is crucial.

Adaptability: Flexibility and willingness to learn new things will set you apart as a proofreader.

How Do I Become a Proofreader With No Experience?

Let’s get real here.

A lot of online proofreading jobs out there want someone with some serious know-how under their belt.

Can’t argue with that, right?

But what if you’re starting from square one, with zip experience but tons of enthusiasm?

Relax…

Ever heard the saying, “To succeed, follow those who’ve already paved the way”? Well, there’s some wisdom there.

That’s why I’m here to tell you – getting some legit training under your belt before you start applying for jobs is key.

Alright, remember when I mentioned that super popular online proofreading course, Proofread Anywhere, by Caitlin Pyle?

Trust me, it’s blowing up for a reason.

Back in 2014, Caitlin Pyle rocked the freelance world by pulling in over $43,000 as a proofreader.

After her big success, she wasn’t content just keeping all the proofreading secrets to herself. She decided to spread the love and help others learn the ropes too.

So, she came up with Proofread Anywhere – Caitlin’s brainchild, a killer online course designed to teach you how to proofread like a pro and score clients left and right from day one.

And get this – Caitlin’s offering a jam-packed 76-minute FREE workshop that’s packed with all the juicy details you need to know before applying for any online proofreading jobs from home.

In this FREE workshop, she spills all the beans on everything you need to know:

• How to launch your proofreading journey (and MAKE money!)
• Mastering Proofreading for Documents and Books for Clients
• The Ultimate Guide to Proofreading: All You Need to Know
• A Step-by-Step Guide How To Find Potential Prospects
• New Addition: AI Module
• Setting Up Freelance Consulting, Billing, and Navigating Finances As A Freelancer

What Proofreading Tools Do I Need For Remote Proofreading Jobs?

Let’s start with the basics: you’ll need a laptop or desktop and internet access.

These are the essential tools required for remote proofreading jobs. Assuming you already have these covered, here’s what else you’ll need:

Google Docs

An online word processing program that lets you team up with clients in real-time. You can make changes, get feedback instantly, and tweak stuff on the fly. It’s a versatile tool that goes beyond storage, facilitating collaboration, revision tracking, and clear communication – all in a user-friendly interface.

Grammarly

It’s a grammar checker tool that scans your text for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and even style errors. While it’s not perfect and shouldn’t be solely relied upon, it can catch mistakes you might miss, especially with its ability to detect context-specific issues.

Microsoft Word

Most clients love using Word for their documents. So, it’s pretty important to know your way around it for editing and tracking changes. Word offers powerful tools like “Track Changes” for highlighting edits, “Styles” for consistent formatting, and macros for automating repetitive tasks.

Dropbox

An online storage to safely store and share your large documents with your clients. With Dropbox, you no longer need to struggle with large email attachments or lose your important files.

Is Being a Proofreader a Good Job For Introverts?

As an introvert myself, I understand the appeal of being able to work from the comfort of home.

Remote proofreading jobs? I say it’s a jackpot for us introverts with eagle eyes.

I mean think about it – you’re in your own space, doing what you love, without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of an office.

Plus, let’s not forget the joy of being able to tackle your workload in your favorite comfy clothes (no judgment if that means pajamas all day, Lol).

So yeah, when you combine the freedom of remote work with the satisfaction of doing a job you genuinely enjoy, it’s pretty much a dream come true for introverts like us, wouldn’t you agree?

Does Proofreading Require a Degree?

It’s a burning question for anyone eyeing up online proofreading jobs. The simple answer? Nope, you don’t.

That’s right – you can be a proofreader without having to flash a fancy English degree.

Now, sure, some companies might throw around the word “degree” like it’s essential, but here’s the truth: countless successful proofreaders have defied this myth.

It’s all about having an eagle eye for detail, a hunger to succeed, and the right training under your belt.

With those power tools, you’ll be proofreading like a pro in no time – no degree required.

Are Online Proofreading Jobs Legit?

When it comes to scoring reliable proofreading jobs online, I get it – you want to make sure you’re not getting duped.

It’s a jungle out there, and nobody wants to fall for a scam.

But here’s the good news: there are trustworthy and legitimate proofreading jobs waiting for you.

So, how do you sniff out the real deals from the duds? Easy – do your homework.

Make deep research into reputable platforms and websites that hook freelancers up with clients in need of proofreading jobs.

Read reviews and testimonials from other proofreaders who have worked with those platforms to get a better sense of their credibility.

And here’s a pro tip (well, maybe not so pro, lol): steer clear of any job postings that ask you to cough up cash upfront.

Legitimate proofreading jobs will typically pay you for your skills, not the other way around.

So if someone’s asking for your hard-earned dough before you’ve even started, it’s probably best to hit the brakes.

Ready to Start Proofreading Jobs From Home Now?

So, you’ve stumbled upon this fantastic opportunity to make money as a proofreader, all while cozying up at home. Pretty sweet deal, right?

But hey, even if you’re completely new to the proofreading industry, there’s no need to worry. Everyone has to begin somewhere.

My advice? Take Caitlin’s FREE workshop and kickstart your proofreading journey the right way, right from the get-go.

I’ve heard nothing but positive reviews about her “Proofread Anywhere” course and that free 76-minute workshop of hers.

Once you’ve soaked up all that knowledge, spruce up your resume and start hunting down those proofreading jobs you’ve been dreaming of.

Now, here’s the million-dollar question: are you ready to start making things happen, or are you going to keep putting it off, adding it to your never-ending to-do list?

What’s holding you back? Get out there and show the world what an awesome proofreader you are!

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