Why should all documents be proofed and who should do it?

The answer to the first part of the question is that we all miss errors when we read our own work – regardless of whether it is printed or on the screen – because we all ‘know’ what we have written.  In fact, we are much more likely to miss errors on the screen than in printed format, which is why most professional proofreaders work from printed documents, even if the content will be published on the web.  So the answer to the second part is – someone other than the author, preferably a professional proofreader.

Does it really matter?

Yes – it certainly does.  Companies spend vast sums on their corporate image, and part of that image should be conveying professionalism at every level, including the written word. 

So, why me?

I am passionate about language – spelling, grammar, punctuation and presentation – and I am never happier than when sitting over a document, ruler and red pen in hand! As a trained secretary it was always my forte, and some years ago I was fortunate to be offered a position with a small publishing company where I was able to develop my proofreading and editing skills alongside my project management role.

After a few years with OMFAX the opportunity arose to run my own interior landscaping business – which I did successfully for several years, before selling the company in preparation for our move to Devon.

You may well ask why an erstwhile interior landscaper is once again working at a desk.  Why do I prefer a red pen and ruler to compost and plants?  I don’t.  I am still equally passionate about plants, but my back is not so keen on lifting large sacks of compost and heavy pots and plants, so I enjoy looking at gardens created by others, and correcting errors made by others in print!

I do ‘what I say on the can’ and I will work to tight deadlines if asked and I am able to.  I will not promise what I cannot deliver. My charges are reasonable and so am I.  As with my landscaping business, I aim to develop a mutually beneficial and lasting working relationship with all my clients.