An acquisition editor is the one who provides assistance to the writer before the work goes into a final editing-phase. From there, the content editor steps in, followed by the production editor, who is the time manager of the project. He is also responsible for hiring typists, proofreaders, and sometimes he will locate a copy editor, who is the last of the four who gives the most attention to the manuscript itself, versus those before him who have already dealt with the author. These positions allow for a degree of routine, therefore, they are not considered as stressful as some other publishing specialist jobs. Still, this is the single most important stage for both new authors and those who have been in the publishing business for years.
Other jobs in publishing, along with the four mentioned above, include support staff such as secretaries, agents, copywriters, proofreaders, fact checkers and many others. And don't forget our local libraries. Many have become favorite stops for authors who have been successful. These authors often come home for readings and to show their appreciation for the libraries they were exposed to while growing up. These are quickly becoming part of every new and established author's routine and as such, libraries are seeing new monies via donations and scholarships funded by the authors who want to contribute to their local communities. This enables libraries to add to their inventories as well as to take on new staff to further their public-relations efforts. The majority of scholarships provided for aspiring authors have very few restrictions, since the authors themselves know the frustrations of trying to get published and therefore simply want to make it available for the taking. The libraries are also able to put into place workshops for high school students who wish to become writers.
These are fantastic opportunities for those who have not yet established themselves and are learning the business, so to speak. It offers virtually unlimited resources through their employers while placing them in the frontline of publishing and writing for every imaginable genre. For the nearly 150,000-plus books published each year in this country alone, it stands to reason this is a large sector of the American economy. From classroom text books to online publishing houses and periodicals, there is always a need for excellent proofreaders, editors, and authors. Not only that, but those living in other parts of the country no longer have to relocate to cities such as New York or Washington, D.C. to pursue their careers. Many make excellent livings incorporating their skills as proofreaders and copywriters by freelancing. If you are wondering if the pay is sufficient, the short answer is yes. Combine the need for experience with the absence of costs associated with showing up at an office each day, and one begins to realize the benefits. If, however, you are not one for working solo, you might not want to consider freelancing since it involves hours a day working in solitude.
Unfortunately, the popularity of writing in text via text messaging on cellular phones and instant messengers has dulled many to the differences in proper English and the slang that is so common in these forms of communication. A recent survey of fifth graders revealed that 12% of this age group believed the word ''what'' is spelled ''w-a-t'' or ''w-u-t.'' That is alarming, since federal money has gone into reading programs which should safeguard against high school seniors graduating without knowing how to read or write. This new method of communication, although convenient, has the potential to undo the work of so many over the past several decades. This further reiterates the need for those tax monies that are already earmarked. If not, we stand to see traditional reading material go the wayside to shorter, texting-friendlier electronic methods that promote not only the lack of proper English, but can propel forward these methods that have become an art form.
In the meantime, teachers are re-energizing their efforts to be sure students know the technical side of writing by incorporating MLS writing guidelines for term papers and theses. High school students face major point deductions for failing to follow certain guidelines, providing an incentive to do well. Many aspiring authors become teachers as a way to support themselves and their writing careers. Many feel it is a way to give back while not sacrificing their own dreams. Clearly, the field is wide open, even via detours, for those seeking jobs in publishing.
