By Caitlin Nearhood, Icon intern

Paula Pyzik Scott of Bluffton recently began operating her business, PS Editorial Services, to meet the needs of local individuals and businesses. Scott, who holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of Michigan, specializes in light, medium, or heavy copy editing, web content management, compilation services, proofreading of final copy, and English as a Second Language (ESL) or American English services. She also possesses 19 years of editorial experience.

I spoke with Scott about her business and here's part of that conversation. Tell me about your editing background. What are some previous projects?
I started as a writer for a Detroit publisher, which led to my working as a copy editor. I also tutor students and faculty at ONU in writing and public speaking. I dedicate half of my time to my freelance business, and half to tutoring. Recently, I edited a Japanese to English translation of a coloring book for adults; it was my most surprising project! I have also edited encyclopedia entries on historic gardens, universities, and places. As a web content manager, I update a local restaurant’s website and menu - that’s for Jeanne’s Kitchen.

How did you become interested in creating a business?
I’ve done freelance writing since 1995, but this is my first time branding my services. I worked for the Bluffton Center of Entrepreneurs, so I became familiar with business plans and marketing. I interviewed several people before opening for business, because I wanted to make sure of the kind of services people need. I also did a Google search for editorial services in the area, and there weren’t any.

What did you want to be growing up?
Growing up I had a passion for books and movies. I never planned to be a copy editor.

Why should someone hire a copy editor?
Everyone needs an outside reader. I serve three types of writers: A really good writer who is looking for a test audience, the person who can’t afford to make mistakes in spelling, grammar, or typos, and the less experienced writer. That includes someone who is writing in English as a Second Language. I make sure the manuscript or text meets their individual needs.

How did you become interested in editing?
It grew out of writing. I was offered to assignments as a copy editor. Publishers want the work to be flawless. The experience gave me the skills to follow style guidelines and greater awareness of the audience the work is intended for. It inspired me to be a perfectionist.

What are some things you might review with potential clients?
I review the text by doing a sample edit to show them what I do, so that there’s no mystery about how it’s done. And I introduce them to the editorial process, where they can accept, reject, or respond to my suggestions.

What social media programs might potential clients not be aware of that could help them?
I like and use Facebook, LinkedIn and Pinterest. Pinterest is a great visual means of communication. I focus on making things manageable. I ask myself “Where is my client going to get the most impact for the effort?”

Tell me more about the ESL and American English services you offer.
I have worked extensively with international students and faculty. This is what I enjoy most about tutoring. And it has helped prepare me to be an ESL copy editor. I understand the ESL writer’s need for feedback on grammar, word choices, and the structural differences between languages.

Have you had any business yet?
Well, I opened for business less than a month ago. Before I had officially unveiled my services, I had new clients. And I am very happy with the prospects I have developed. But it is a little like ghost-writing. My clients don’t always want it known that they use editorial services.

-Link to Paula Pyzik Scott’s website http://pseditorialservices.net/