Professional writing, editing and mentoring
I focus on understanding your brief, and delivering professional services that result in clear, engaging language and accessible content. I specialise in making technical and legal content accessible, by applying my legal expertise and also asking important questions about who it is written for, and what it is trying to achieve – to provide information, educate or persuade. I can also provide support for your writing.
Writing
I write reports, articles and content for a range of media, including reports and corporate resources, each tailored for the format and audience (whether that’s the public or a professional audience).
I apply plain language principles, while working with you to ensure your needs and those of your readers are met.
Editing
Editing covers a number of processes, each designed to improve content, to polish it and bring it to life. It includes:
I can provide each of these editing options, from project initiation to delivery. I have been a member of Editors Victoria, previously on its Freelance Register. Read more about the value of using an editor at the Institute of Professional Editors Ltd website.
I can work with any of your content, whether it is your annual report or corporate manifesto, non-fiction manuscript, CV, article, newsletter, policy documents or web content.
Web content development
When people are online they have a task in mind – they want to find out more about you, access your service, or be engaged and informed. I understand how the web works, and how to write for it. I have experience in managing web content, prioritising accessibility and functionality, and expertise in writing for the web.
Mentoring and training
Words and language are personal – your tone, style and approach need to suit you and your work, whether that’s selling fabric, providing legal services or writing academic texts. My approach is to work with you to understand your needs and your style and to ensure that all of your words work – so people clearly understand what you offer, and what you have to say.
But why do I need editing or writing help? I know how to write.
Writing and editing are technical skills, and I’ve worked professionally as a writer and editor for more than ten years. When I was a lawyer I thought I was a good writer, too – I had a lot to learn!
Now I can provide mentoring and training services to help you and your team understand the key elements of writing well, in your environment. I can support new bloggers and small business owners with their websites, or develop training on plain language suited to government or corporate workplaces.
How I work with you
Words and language are personal – your tone, style and approach need to suit you and your work, whether that’s selling fabric, providing legal services or writing academic texts. My approach is to work with you to understand your needs and your style and to ensure that all of your words work – so people clearly understand what you offer, and what you have to say.
We usually start with you setting out what work you think is required, with some sample text or chapters, and I can then give you a quote. The more clear we are with each other at the beginning, the better it works.
If you require training, we can discuss what you need and how it can be delivered, in person or online.
I work as a consultant, and can subcontract to other professionals (editors, web developers, designers) if your project needs it. I am happy to enter into a consultant agreement, which sets out expectations and clarifies issues such as copyright and confidentiality, or for small tasks I’m happy to communicate and discuss terms by email (which can still constitute a contract). I’m flexible and willing to offer my help where I can.
Fees
I charge a set fee for some work, such as $200 for a CV, or by hour for others (such as straightforward copyediting at $50 per hour). For other projects I will quote a fee based on the samples, the deadline and the kind of work required.