Beta-reader jobs involve extensive reading of a piece of writing before it is turned into a book or published somewhere. You will be required to read carefully and explain areas that need improvements. You have to point out punctuation, grammar, and other errors.
This job is not as easy as it sounds. However, you have an added advantage if you have what it takes to be a beta reader. Understanding the qualifications, duties, and how to get the job is the necessary foundation. It can be hectic when you have no clue what is expected of you.
It’s also the beta reader’s responsibility to comment on areas that are not making sense in the script. For this reason, you must have extensive experience in writing. Here is a guide on how to apply for beta reader jobs in the UK and start earning income.
Duties and Responsibilities
As a beta reader, your job will include making the story better for the author and understanding its vision for the script. You identify the type of content and the tone the author has used and then give feedback.
Your comments will help the author make corrections and stick to the intended vision. You are the extra pair of eyes for the author, helping them print something exquisite with no errors. Authors have a benefit working with a beta reader to help address the weak spots before publishing the manuscript.
You have to help the author understand how people will view their writing. It’s like you are the judge of the manuscript, pointing out new opportunities and how the author can make adjustments and improve the piece.
Average pay
The average pay for a professional beta reader is £62,488, which is a great salary that can truly help you improve your living standards. However, the salary varies with the signed contract with the author. You can work for different authors, increasing your pay every time.
Qualifications of a Good Beta Reader
You must be an excellent communicator to explain your comments in the form of a conversation. Remember, the author is the one writing the book, not you. Your role is, therefore, to point out errors from the given script.
You must have at last a diploma and have extensive experience in literature. You must be a critical thinker thinking outside the box and giving the author new ideas on the area that needs improvement. At times the author will ask you to read specific parts and point out specific errors.
A beta reader must be an excellent listener to work closely with the author and create good rapport.
How to Get a Job as a Beta Reader
Applying for a job as a beta reader involves following specific steps. Have all your academic qualifications in order, as well as a resume. You must advertise your skills to different authors to extend your job-seeking area.
Ask other professionals for recommendations or drop your resume in different offices. Moreover, the easiest way of getting a job is applying for one online. There are several sites where you can post your resume and connect with authors looking for a beta reader.
Legit sites you can rely on for a job include Upwork.com, Indeed, LinkedIn, Study.com, and Balance Careers, to name a few. Authors post job opportunities on these websites, and after signing in, you will have a variety of jobs to go through. They can also see your displayed resume and contact you for an interview.
These websites are legit and will connect you with authors looking for a beta reader. They post the skills, duties, and qualifications needed. You can easily apply for the one that matches your qualifications. Therefore, create a profile on either of these sites and start applying for a job.
Final Thoughts
Getting a job as a beta reader is no longer difficult when you know the steps and qualifications needed. Your work as a beta reader will involve reading a manuscript and pointing out errors and misunderstandings. You can feel good about the fact that you’re helping a writer make their piece of work great.