Alison H
Twickenham, United Kingdom
“My job is to make the writer look their best.”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
BA in History
University of Southampton
1978–1981
Favorite referencing style
APA is my favorite.
Why I became an editor
As a history student, I developed the reading, research, and writing skills essential for a journalism career. After graduating, I began a career in computer programming, but quickly discovered that the only thing I enjoyed about the job was writing documents. So, I left to become a trainee journalist, and within two years, I was promoted to editor of an award-winning computer magazine. I have since worked as a freelance publisher, editor, writer, and marketer across print and digital media.
Background and experience
As a freelance writer, editor, publishing consultant, and marketer for nearly 25 years, I’ve worked with online and print businesses, consumer and contract magazines, social media platforms, websites, marketing and sales collateral, brochures and advertorials, and product guides. Prior to this, I worked in magazine publishing as an editor and publisher. I was also responsible for the editorial development and strategic management, and later I was promoted to publisher.
Why I love proofreading and editing
My greatest passions are reading and learning, and editing allows me to get paid while doing both! I love having the freedom to work anywhere and the diversity of topics I’ve been able to cover over the years. I was side-tracked from editing into marketing, which I’ve mostly enjoyed, but at heart, I am a word nerd and I’m happiest when polishing other people’s copy and helping them to communicate better with their readers.
Favorite book:
I love books on history and politics. One of my favorites is The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski (and not just because his name is a proofreader's dream!).
Hobbies:
My hobbies include reading, traveling, walking, sleeping, and experimenting with making cocktails.
Editing tips:
My background is in print media, and I still prefer to print documents out for a first read-through before I go through them on screen. I also find that it helps to read the document out loud.
