Want to make sure you won’t be paid for your work? Go to work for any client who does not use standard proofreader’s marks.
Let me put this another way. Whenever you are offered work as a proofreader, do not neglect to ask whether or not the prospective client uses starndard proofreader’s marks. If the answer is anything other than, “Yes, standard proofreader’s marks are de rigeur for this client,” you must decline the job. Ignore the hourly rate offered — which will nearly always be on the high side. Ignore, too, the prestige — or size — of the client.
What on Earth does the use of standard proofreader’s marks have to do with getting paid? Reader, I don’t know. I only know that firms who don’t use them, cannot be relied upon to pay for proofreading services. And that any proofreader who ignores this advice, does so at her peril.
