Hey there editors,
Why are some people able to build successful tech editing businesses while others are stuck floundering with little client work, discouraged if they should even be a tech editor?
Whenever I ask you all about what you struggle with, the top problem is marketing yourself, and many of you say it is maintaining a confident mindset while you do this high-pressure work. Not a small thing.
When I first encountered this hurdle of Oh my god, now I have to find someone to give me a pattern to edit?? I didn’t know what to do.
I hated the idea of having a public profile and sharing myself with others, worrying about what people would think of me. I was frozen, stalled, and couldn’t move forward.
At the same time, I had no idea how to really handle client work when I got it. What do I do when I get the pattern? How do I invoice? How do I price myself?
I was not the only technical editor who had ever felt that way. I joined a group of people in something called the Starship run by Tara Swiger (sadly not around anymore!), and in that community, I had the freedom to share my troubles and fears, as well as get some lessons on how to run a better small business in this industry. Part of being in this particular community was being actively connected with other people in my same situation, helping each other move forward on our goals.
This process was entirely unexpected for me, because I was a very independent person and I thought I could figure it all out on my own, but surprise!
No, I couldn’t.
Being in a community changed everything for me. It opened the door to completely unexpected opportunities such as:
- Making lasting professional relationships and friendships (I wrote a book with one of my first accountability partners, Kristina McGrath. We're still incredible friends after 7 years.)
- Profitable referrals (I lost count how many times I got an email that so and so told me you edit sweaters, would you edit for me?)
- And insight into having an online business that you can’t find from a Google search.
It also taught me how important it is to have colleagues who know more than me, who have different experiences in my craft, which I couldn’t ever put a price tag on.
Imagine if you were able to conquer that next step you want to take in your business with ease and without spending months trying to figure out how to do it and what will actually work.
I want you to think about what it would feel like to have a booked out editing schedule, clients that love your work, to be excited about what you are taking on that day and getting paid for it! What would your life be like? What kind of impact would that have on your relationships with your family and friends?
Moving from lonely, stuck, frustrated editor to confident, enthusiastic, connected, and ultimately busy editor is absolutely possible for you, just like it was for me. When you are able to know exactly the steps you have to take, then you can become the editor you first dreamed of being when you first heard about tech editing. Do you remember when that was and how excited you were?
Last year, I created a special, dedicated place for just technical editors of yarn patterns to connect, learn, and thrive. It's just what I needed when I started. And it is now open for new members. Here’s what you’ll find inside:
- The Better Editor Framework: Adapt your mindset, set up your back office, land clients, retain them, ramp up your skills, and (coming soon) expand your services.
- 24-7 Forum & Chat: Ask questions and get advice from your colleagues anytime.
- Resource Library: Access a growing collection of tips, links, and helpful information.
- Monthly Workshops: Learn from guest experts about marketing, editing, and business skills.
- Monthly Roundtables: Discuss challenges and brainstorm solutions <<my fav
- Weekly Co-working Sessions: Work on and in your business alongside fellow editors.
- Bulletin Board: Find job opportunities and connect with other editors.
You don’t have to despair over not having work, and not being confident in what you edit. I hope you will join me in The Tech Editor Hub Community.
SPECIAL OFFER: If you join now, you will get to experience the community for free for one week.
I am only offering this freebie for the next 3 days, because maybe this is a "you have to see it to believe it" situation. No obligation to stay, and no obligation to participate. I believe this is the best place online anywhere for yarn pattern technical editors. . . hey, I use it when I need support!
Ready? Click on the button below to find out more in detail what the Community is and how it can serve you.
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Tomorrow! 11:30 am CT
I am hosting a conversation about community and answering your questions. Bring your problems, ideas, and struggles and let's connect.
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Just working out my Second Sleeve Syndrome, so distract me by hitting reply if you want,
Sarah
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I am a knitting technical editor, author, and sweater nerd. I like coffee, puzzles, many books (all at once), and a good sniff of yarn fumes. This Hub is all about helping *you* find success as a technical editor from any direction that works.
When you are ready:
- Learn to tech edit knitting patterns or crochet patterns. Get training and real pattern practice before you take on clients.
- Schedule a strategy session with me. Go deep and get unstuck.
- Join the editor-only community for collaboration, 24-7 support and more skills, including building that business.
- Or just book a virtual cuppa with me. How can I help you?
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