We surveyed 5,911 editors to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical editor. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as an editor?
Low
High
Working as an editor typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become an editor?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as an editor typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as an editor?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically quite difficult to find a job as an editor. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for editors.
Do editors work full-time or part-time?
57% of editors work in full-time roles while 43% work part-time.
Is being an editor stressful?
Low
High
Editors tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as an editor?
Low
High
Organization is considered a very important trait for editors, and is critical to success in the field.
How competitive is the workplace for editors?
Low
High
Editors see mild competition in their workplace.
Does being an editor require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Editors will see frequent time pressure on the job, likely contributing to an occasionally stressful work environment.
Are editors allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Editors are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.
Do editors have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Editors have high flexibility in the direction of their work, allowing them a lot of freedom in how they accomplish their goals.
Is being an editor physically demanding?
Low
High
Work as an editors is rarely physically demanding, making it a suitable option for those unable to perform physically strenuous tasks.
Are editors exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Editors tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being an editor require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail is a vital skill for editors, as small mistakes can make or break one's ability to succeed in the career.
Does being a good editor require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as an editor.