How to become a freelance proofreader
How I did it: once i decided that i wanted to try proofreading, i looked up various technical publishers and submitted a cover letter and resume via e-mail. some requested that i take a proofreading test. i bought and borrowed from the library some proofreading/copyediting related books to learn what i needed to do to prepare. one of the publishing companies that took me seriously and hired me as a freelance proofreader has since given me three proofreading assignments. they were all technical.
Lessons & tips: you have be be ready for the fact that the pay is not necessarily high. as a freelancing task, the gigs come here and there -- it's not going to be consistent work.
include anything that is writing/editing related in your resume from your working past.
might have a better chance at getting gigs if you find a niche -- mine is technical books, since my background comprises of 10 years in systems administration and web programming.
Resources: the local public library, various proofreading books, amazon online, copyediting mailing list
copyediting and proofreading for dummies
by Suzanne Gilad
McGraw-Hill's Proofreading Handbookby Laura Anderson
The McGraw-Hill Desk Reference for Editors, Writers, and Proofreaders(with CD-ROM)by K. D. Sullivan and Merilee Eggleston
Chicago Manual of Style, 15th edition
Merriam-Webster Online
Copyediting Mailing list
