Magazine Editors

Previous experience as a writer, reporter, or assistant editor is necessary to work in the field. All entry-level positions in magazine publishing require a working knowledge of typing and word processing, plus a superior command of grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Deadlines are important, so commitment, organization, and resourcefulness are crucial.

Editing is intellectually stimulating work that may involve investigative techniques in politics, history, and business. Magazine editors must be talented wordsmiths with impeccable judgment. Their decisions about which opinions, editorials, or essays to feature may influence a large number of people.

Handling stress and deadlines, as well as being able to work with and motivate others, is also important. Good reporting skills and a natural curiosity will help editors have good news judgment and instincts. There is always deadline pressure and always news to edit. Although the long hours and pressure are sometimes difficult to handle, the rewards of being an editor are many. In fact, many editors thrive on this unrelenting pressure and excitement.

Good public relations skills are also important for magazine editors. If readers are upset about what they read, or don't read, it is often the editor who has to address their concerns. Although it is good news for a local magazine when the public feels a strong ownership in the publication, it can also be a challenge to meet the needs of a diverse readership.