Sub-editor helps agency in best eagle-eyed tradition
Sector: Internal communications (IC)
Client: AB
Services: Sub-editing
How I helped: As chief sub-editor, I helped AB’s reporters make their writing fit for purpose and engaging every day.
Client
AB is a London-based agency of communications experts. It has helped organisations engage and connect with employees for five decades. I was its freelance chief sub-editor five days a week from 2003-17, when it brought its subbing in-house.
Challenge
The copy that AB’s reporters wrote could arrive any time during the day. The tight deadlines meant juggling schedules so I could respond quickly to the reporters’ needs and still have time to suggest improvements without affecting my other clients’ work. The work also involved mastering multiple clients’ style guides.
Action
As chief sub-editor, I immersed myself in the style of each AB client. Every day, I would edit the reporters’ news so it was right the first time. Using a second screen kept emails from AB separate from those of other clients. I also gave AB’s reporters realistic windows for returning text, enabling me to juggle everyone’s needs effectively.
Result
I responded quickly, often within 30 minutes, providing clear and easy guidance for AB’s reporters. My suggestions for improvements raised the game of AB’s junior staff, and my speedy turnaround and editorial approach helped AB’s reporters make their writing fit for purpose and engaging.
Visit the AB website.
Testimonial
As AB’s sub, Alison was quick off the mark, and her essential input did not add unforeseen time to a project. She showed incredible responsiveness and professionalism even when an urgent project arrived.
Katie Macauley, managing director, AB
