For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved getting lost in the written word. Whether it’s a novel, a memoir, a thought-provoking article, or an entertaining blog post, as long as I have something to read, then I’m a happy camper. To me, stories are one of the most powerful things we humans have at our disposal—they connect, transport, reach down to our deepest fibers, and stir up emotions like nothing else.

Alas, as much as I love storytelling, it just isn’t my calling. But, oh, how I love to be around the storytellers! This is how I came to be an editor. I love working with writers. I’m passionate about helping them bring their words and stories to the reader.

But, Danielle, isn’t there more to being an editor than just a love of reading? Thank you for asking, and yes. It requires a specific skill set, training, and dedication to ongoing learning and development. So let’s get to my qualifications, shall we? I have two certificates from Edit Republic. In addition, I continue to hone my craft through books, webinars, tutorials, and ongoing practice exercises. You’ve heard of Malcolm Gladwell’s 10,000 hour rule? Yeah, I’m pretty sure I’ve topped that!

I am a proud member of Editorial Freelancers Association, and ACES: The Society for Editing, as well as several editing groups on social media. I believe in having a strong network of other professionals in the field to whom I can turn for guidance when I come across something I can’t figure out.

I’ve been told I’m a bit of a perfectionist. This is probably why I’ve always been able to spot a typo from a mile away. This perfectionism extends to my own education and professional development. I’ll never stop studying, learning, and improving my skills. If I ever get to the point where I think there’s nothing left to learn, that means it’s time for me to stop. Until then, I’ll bring all of my passion and skills to every project that comes my way. The written word deserves nothing less.