Letter From the Editor: Why You Might Want to Consider Contributing to The Editors’ Weekly

Dear readers,

These past two-plus years, I’ve kept good company with authors, publishing leaders, instructors and professors, new and established freelancers, linguistics experts, translators, in-house and niche editors and many more, and most of it during a pandemic. At a time when many were feeling disconnected, I was having weekly conversations with talented contributors and had some insight into the collective consciousness of editors. The connection has been serendipitous and worth all the while.

And now, it’s time for a change. I’m pleased to let you know that Beau Brock is the new managing editor of The Editor’s Weekly. The certification steering committee recently recognized him as a certified proofreader. Beau is based in Ottawa, and he’s a certified translator who is fluent in several languages. All that to say that you are in good hands and that he will offer a refreshing new direction for the blog.

Many thanks to you, readers, for subscribing and taking the time to comment on posts. Thanks to all the contributors I’ve worked with — the regulars, the one-timers, the guest bloggers and the mentors who shared their ideas and vision for the blog. It boosted my spirits to see your posts in my inbox. Special thanks to Laura Bontje, who has a skill for conscious editing and writing, attention to detail and patience. Laura will continue as proofreader and social media contributor for the blog.

In the professional world where work can be punishing and at times unforgiving, it helps to be part of an organization like Editors Canada that has high standards, but also a good measure of kindness and understanding. If you are a new editor, contributing to the blog is a great way to see editing in action and get published. If you’re an established editor or author, contributing to the blog is a great way to network, mentor and take part in the editing community. And as Gael Spivak explains in a post about volunteer work, experience is experience, whether you’ve been paid for it or not.

I’ve learned so much from you all. It’s been rewarding to be part of such a talented editorial team.

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Previous post from Lucy Payette: January Is Mentoring Month: How Are We Doing?

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