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As an editor, you’ll know how to create compelling content – but that’s only the start of your role. The role of editor is an exciting and fast-paced position; work can be both challenging and inspiring. Working within an editorial department, you’ll need to be a skilled communicator who can give other writers constructive criticism. That’s on top of strong technical skills such as SEO expertise, CMS, and content analytics.
Demonstrating this range of experience concisely can be a challenge. Use myPerfectCV to explore our selection of editor CV samples before building your application. See how the professionals would structure your CV then put your skills to the test with our trusted CV builder tool.
Start by updating this Editor CV template, or delve into our range of professional CV templates to find one that suits your needs.
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Take a look at our editor CV templates
Editors understand how important structure is when it comes to creating a great piece of writing. Using our range of editor CV templates, you can find the perfect structure for your application. Choose your favourite template and learn the best way to present your education, experience, and skills.
Polish your application with our top recruiter tips for writing your editor CV
Your CV will give recruiters a valuable insight into your writing style – so don’t leave them with the wrong impression. Follow these top tips for an editor application that will show off your skills.
Include metrics from previous roles
In today’s digital world, the success of your writing can be measured in metrics such as open rates, page views, comments, and shares. If you have impressive figures from your previous roles, always include them on your CV. These will show that you’ve created a successful content strategy in the past and help your recruiter quantify your experience.
Create a compelling personal statement
As an editor, the writing on your CV is going to be under scrutiny. Get off to a good start with an eye-catching personal statement. Your CV’s content should give a brief flavour of your achievements, ambitions, and personality – but always make sure to avoid clichés when describing yourself. Using the same words and phrases as everyone else could make your CV blend into the background and won’t make your writing style stand out.
Proofread your application
Proofreading is critical for anyone sending something as important as a CV – but if you’re applying to editorial positions, it’s crucial. Even the smallest typo will seriously undermine your credentials and make a recruiter question whether you’re up to the task. That means you’ll need to proofread your application incredibly carefully before hitting that ‘send’ button.
Use keywords from the editor job description
Editor roles can be very different in terms of the daily responsibilities, depending on the publication. Some positions will require extensive marketing skills, while others are focused on scouting out stories and breaking news. To make sure your CV fits the bill, always include keywords from the job description. If they’re looking for someone who is experienced with scheduling software, for example, incorporate this phrase into your list of skills.
Include any awards or achievements
Whether it’s a journalism prize at school or a national writing award, always include your achievements on your CV – even if they’re not tied to your previous roles. Competition for editor roles can be fierce, so extracurricular awards are a great way to help your application stand out. They will also show that you’re prepared to go above and beyond to hone your skill.
What skills should you include on your editor CV?
Editors need a diverse range of skills, from impeccable grammar to an understanding of SEO. Discover the top skills needed to be an editor here.
Must-have skills for your editor CV
- Communication (written and verbal)
- SEO experience
- Content commissioning and scheduling
- Using a CMS
- Analytics tools
- Sourcing stories
Extra skills that will help you stand out
- Conflict resolution
- PR experience
- Sourcing images
- Print and digital experience
- Events management and networking
- Website troubleshooting
FAQs about your editor CV
What does an editor do?
An editor is responsible for proofing content, so it’s ready for publication. This can involve commissioning articles, correcting grammar, fact-checking, and rewriting sections to ensure the piece corresponds to the in-house style guide. On top of this, many editors at digital publications are also responsible for devising a content strategy and monitoring their stories’ success rate online. They usually also write the content themselves as the head of an editorial team.
How to become an editor?
Editors are almost always senior professionals. To become one, you’ll need extensive writing experience, having worked full-time at a specific publication. Many editors will have a relevant university degree, such as English, journalism, or creative writing. If your dream is to become an editor at a national newspaper or magazine, you’ll need a post-graduate journalism qualification. Many roles specify the successful candidate will be NCTJ-qualified or have an equivalent level of experience.
What are the types of editor?
There are almost as many types of editors as there are types of content! Your role will utterly depend on the kind of publication you’re joining. You might find a features editor, commissioning editor, section editor, or editor-in-chief at a newspaper or magazine. Other types of editor might work for marketing departments to proof in-house copy. Editors can also work in traditional publishing houses, where they appraise manuscripts for publication into books.
What are the skills needed to be an editor?
The specific skills editors need will depend on the role you’re applying for. In general, an editor needs a flawless and elegant writing style, coupled with adjusting their writing to fit a particular publication or brief. They must also be excellent communicators, especially if they commission and proof content from a team of writers.
How much does an editor earn?
According to Glassdoor, the average UK salary for an editor in London is £35,117 a year. Salary range will vary depending on the publication. At big magazines, you could earn anything from £60,000 upwards, while editors at smaller firms who are still at the start of their career might earn £25,000 a year.
Edit your application with our proven CV builder
If you want to secure your next editor role, an impressive CV is a must. At myPerfectCV, we have all the top tips, templates, and tailored content you could need. Browse the selection, then use our tried & tested CV builder tool to create your application.
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