Indexers

Employers

Traditionally, indexers have worked for publishers of books or periodicals. Publishers of encyclopedias, legal books, medical journals and newspapers usually employ a staff of indexers. They are full-time employees, or they earn a living by freelance indexing. Freelance indexers are self-employed workers who sell their indexing services. Publishers hire freelance indexers to work on specific books or projects.

Starting Out

Novice indexers can enter the field by becoming a junior member of an indexing team at a large publishing house, or they can work as editorial assistants. Beginners commonly work under the close supervision of a more experienced staff member. Freelance indexers begin by soliciting work—a time-consuming and difficult process. In order to gain experience and build client relationships, novice indexers must initially accept small jobs at relatively low pay rates. In time, independent indexers develop a network of employers and learn to negotiate fees according to the latest market rates.