Q: I am a mid-career reporter. I had never really considered copy editing until an editor suggested I consider making a switch. Honestly, the thought does intrigue me, and it could be a way to broaden my knowledge and skill set. But before I decide, I have a few questions and would value your feedback.
- What factors should I be thinking about in making my decision?
- If I get into copy editing and don't enjoy it, would it be difficult to move back into reporting at this paper or another one?
- I've always heard that copy editors make more money than reporters. Is there any general rule of thumb about this? i.e. "copy editors make XX percent more than reporters"?
Wondering
A: You're right to be cautious.
On occasion, I have seen editors suggest career moves for people that are more beneficial to the paper than they are to the people.
Don't rule it out, but be cautious. Talk to some copy editors to see what life is like on the desk before you take the plunge.
Some factors to explore: hours, workload, pace of work, respect, the boss.
It can be more difficult to get off a copy desk than it is to get on one. It's a simple matter of supply and demand. If copy editors are harder to find than, say, reporters, the editors would rather have a reporting opening than a desk opening. When faced with an easy-to-fill opening in a reporting position, an editor is generally not helped when a copy editor offers to fill it. Of course, excellent journalists, be they editors or anything else, have mobility. You might consider asking the editor to treat this as a cross-train or fixed-term experience.
Copy editors can make more money than reporters but I would say they do not, on average. Some newspapers will pay copy editors more in compensation for working crummy hours.
However, if the newspaper has a modified star system in place, it is easier for reporters to shine and they may attract larger merit raises. Over time, that can wipe out the differential that copy editors get for their work schedules.
