Meet our tutors: John Romans

Chapter 1. How it all began 

Q: How did your career begin and what led you into the world of editorial work? 

A: My first career was as a news reporter at a local newspaper, a job I enjoyed very much given my love of words and interest in the world around me. After a few years, I became a subeditor and discovered how much satisfaction I got from working on other journalists’ copy to ensure that the spelling, grammar and punctuation were correct and also from checking articles for accuracy and clarity. 

The fulfilment I get from collaborating with writers to ensure their work is the best it can possibly be has remained with me over the years. When I later moved into marketing communications, I gained the reputation of being the office proofreader and took great pleasure in helping colleagues to polish their writing. 

I had long dreamt of being my own boss and, when the time came, there was never any doubt about what sort of business I was going to set up – editing and proofreading. 

Chapter 2. What I do now 

Q: What does your work look like today, and what do you enjoy most about it? 

A: My main focus is on fiction, and I work with novelists from around the world to add an extra layer of quality to their books. I derive huge pleasure from forming close partnerships with authors to help them fulfil their dreams. 

As part of my offering to novelists, I set up a knowledge centre on my website with lots of helpful advice on the writing process. I was thrilled with the positive response I got from authors who found my guidance very helpful. This prompted me to look for other ways I could use my skills and experience to support others. Remembering how valuable the CIEP’s courses had been to me when I was setting up my editorial business, I applied to be a tutor. I was accepted and it’s a job I love! 

Q: Which CIEP courses do you tutor on and how has it helped you become a better editorial professional? 

A: I tutor on four courses: 

Proofreading 2: Headway 

Proofreading 3: Progress 

Copyediting 2: Headway 

Copyediting 3: Progress 

I have no doubt that being a CIEP tutor has improved the way I approach my own editing and proofreading. Each time I provide feedback to a student, I am reinforcing my own knowledge of best practice and strengthening my commitment to reaching the highest standards. 

Chapter 3. Supporting students 

Q: How would you describe your approach to working with students on CIEP courses? 

A: I feel a great empathy with CIEP students because I was one myself not so long ago. When I decided to set up my editorial services business, I took a range of courses and they provided me with the skills and confidence I needed to succeed. 

I understand the apprehension students may feel when embarking on training and am committed to doing everything possible to make their course a positive learning experience. 

I see my role as being that of a supportive editorial friend; it’s vital to point out how students can improve, but it’s also important to do so in a constructive way – and to praise them for the things they are doing well. 

Q: What do you think students most value about the support and feedback you offer them? 

A: I believe students really appreciate the bespoke nature of working with me. If there is a particular area that they are concerned about, I can offer tailored advice to meet their specific needs that will help them in future assignments and in their editorial career. 

My own experience as a student gives me an insight into the challenges the courses present and the best ways of guiding people through them. 

Chapter 4. The experience of being a CIEP tutor 

Q: What is the best thing about being a CIEP tutor? 

A: Having benefited so much myself from taking the courses, I feel a huge sense of pride at being able to give something back. I am incredibly grateful to the tutors who helped me in the early days of my business and aim to support my students in the same friendly, conscientious manner. 

Chapter 5. My advice for others 

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting out or considering a career in the editorial profession? And what would you say to anyone who’s just starting or considering starting their CIEP training? 

A: To be entrusted with the task of refining a manuscript which an author has spent many months writing is a wonderful privilege. For anyone who loves words and enjoys helping other people, being an editor and proofreader is a brilliant career. As with any venture, it’s important to build solid foundations – and there’s no better way of doing this than with CIEP training.