If the process of getting copy edited and approved is a bit of a nightmare at your nonprofit — or it’s just not as simple and efficient as it should be, you aren’t alone!
During today’s webinar on the seven styles of nonprofit writing, I talked about coaching others on writing and working through collaborative editing.
I talked specifically about the three levels of editing (substantive, copy editing, and proofreading) and assigning those jobs to different people depending on their roles within the organization and on a specific project.
How does this all work in the real world? Here’s how webinar participants replied to a poll about that . . .
Less than a quarter said that editing roles and responsibilities were clearly defined. Another half said they had “go-to people” but that it wasn’t a defined, formal role. Another 13% said everyone looked at everything and it was a nightmare. Another 10% said it was all on their shoulders.
It’s worth a conversation about the shared responsibility people in your nonprofit should feel for getting great content out to the world. If you are feeling alone or like it’s a nightmare, talk about the three levels of editing and the seven writing styles. Discuss who should be responsible for what on each project. Make editing a formal part of those people’s jobs.
Your work products and effectiveness will improve as a result.
