Please tell us a little about yourself.
I’ve worked as a freelance editor in Berlin for nearly 20 years now. I’m a passionate networker, and am actively involved with the Verband der Freien Lektorinnen und Lektoren (German Association of Freelance Editors), of which I am also the chairperson.
What professional experience do you have in your field of consultation?
After completing practical training at a trade publishing house, I went freelance in 2004, and not long after a colleague and I opened an editorial office called der springende punkt. Our clients include educational publishers, agencies, museums, and NGOs. In terms of education, one of my areas of focus involves editing inclusive teaching materials. Aside from that, I convert texts into simplified German and hold workshops on the topic.
What are typical questions that participants might ask you in a consultation?
How do I get started as a freelance editor? What should I bear in mind when setting up my own business as a freelance editor? How do I attract clients? How should I present myself to seem more professional? Where can I go for additional training as a freelance editor? How can I be financially successful as a freelancer? What should an average workday look like?
What are some of your professional achievements?
For many years, I’ve overseen the production of several book series for large educational publishers. In addition, my regular clients also include prestigious corporate publishing agencies.
What languages do you offer consultations in?
German, English
Where can you be found online/on social media?
LinkedIn
Mastodon
What advice would you give to those interested in working in your field?
Network, become specialised in something, negotiate fair fees, build up several mainstays (above all when it comes to the services you offer and your client base)
What were your greatest challenges in the early years of your career?
Establishing a customer base, calculating and writing offers, finding a good work-life balance.