A managing editor oversees the editorial process of print publications and is responsible for managing the editorial team, budget, and layout design. To become a managing editor, one typically needs a degree in journalism or communications, experience in the field, and a solid skill set. Volunteering or interning at a local newspaper, radio station, or television station can provide valuable real-world experience and networking opportunities. It’s also important to have expertise in the area of the publication’s content.
A managing editor oversees the overall editorial process from completion of a print publication such as a newspaper, magazine or book. Depending on the specific company or specific roles of the position, the editor-in-chief may also be known as editor-in-chief, publication manager, executive editor, copy editor, or publication supervisor. Key responsibilities typically include overseeing the editorial team, copying publication content, managing a budget, and helping writers develop their craft. While there may not be a specific one-two-three process for becoming a managing editor, typically you’ll need at least an undergraduate degree, experience in the field, and a solid skill set.
To become a managing editor, it’s usually best to start by taking university courses in journalism or communications. Typically, managing editors are preferred to hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field, depending on their level of experience. This holds true even if they started out in the career field in an entry-level position such as a reporter for the school newspaper, radio station or television station.
Layout design can be one of the technical aspects of a management editor’s job. To become a managing editor, you will likely need to maintain a style consistent with the publication’s written content and its physical layout. Typically, managing editors must also have the skills to determine what will grab the reader’s attention and keep the reader’s attention. The visual layout of a publication can be just as important as what is written in it.
To become a managing editor, you can also volunteer or find an internship at a local newspaper, radio station, or television station. This can provide valuable real-world experience, as well as create important networking opportunities in the career field. If possible, consider doing editorial work for other organizations, such as nonprofits or other community activities that might look good on a resume.
Another factor to consider is the area of expertise that editors are looking to fill, particularly if they’re moving into a niche industry like any form of technical writing. For example, if you want to oversee the editorial content of an in-house computer company publication, you might want to gain training and experience in computer science. You can also find out if the company will allow you to hide your writers, editors or proofreaders. Not only will this give you hands-on experience, it will also make your presence known in the industry.
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