Copy Reader Onboarding Checklist

Copy Reader Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Copy Reader starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Editing onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Copy Reader, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Copy Reader onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Copy Reader Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The task involves providing the copy reader with a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures. This includes familiarizing them with the employee handbook, code of conduct, and any other relevant documents. The HR department or a designated representative typically performs this task to ensure the copy reader understands the company’s expectations and guidelines.

2. Introduction to the editing team: The copy reader should be introduced to their colleagues in the editing team. This task involves arranging a meeting or informal gathering where the team members can get to know each other, discuss their roles and responsibilities, and establish a supportive work environment. The team lead or supervisor usually performs this task to foster collaboration and teamwork.

3. Familiarization with company style guide: Every company has its own unique style guide that outlines the preferred writing and editing conventions. The copy reader should be provided with a copy of the company’s style guide and given time to study and understand it. The editing team lead or a senior editor typically performs this task to ensure consistency in the copy reader’s work.

4. Training on editing software and tools: Depending on the company’s preferred editing software and tools, the copy reader may need training to become proficient in their usage. This task involves providing the copy reader with hands-on training sessions or access to online tutorials to familiarize them with the software’s features and functionalities. The IT department or a designated software trainer typically performs this task.

5. Introduction to company’s content management system (CMS): If the company uses a CMS for content creation and management, the copy reader should receive training on how to navigate and utilize the system effectively. This task involves providing the copy reader with access to the CMS, demonstrating its key features, and explaining how to upload, edit, and publish content. The IT department or a designated CMS administrator typically performs this task.

6. Review of company’s editorial guidelines: In addition to the style guide, many companies have specific editorial guidelines that outline the preferred tone, voice, and messaging for their content. The copy reader should be provided with a copy of these guidelines and given time to review and understand them. The editing team lead or a senior editor typically performs this task to ensure the copy reader adheres to the company’s editorial standards.

7. Shadowing experienced copy readers: To gain practical insights into the company’s editing processes and workflows, the copy reader should have the opportunity to shadow experienced copy readers. This task involves pairing the new copy reader with a seasoned professional who can guide them through real-life editing tasks, provide feedback, and answer any questions. The editing team lead or a senior editor typically arranges and oversees this task.

8. Introduction to company’s clients and projects: The copy reader should be introduced to the company’s clients and ongoing projects to understand the scope of their work. This task involves providing an overview of the clients’ industries, the types of content being edited, and any specific requirements or deadlines. The account management or project management team typically performs this task to ensure the copy reader is well-informed about the company’s clients and projects.

9. Performance expectations and goal setting: The copy reader should have a clear understanding of their performance expectations and goals. This task involves setting measurable targets, discussing key performance indicators, and establishing regular check-ins to monitor progress. The editing team lead or supervisor typically performs this task to ensure the copy reader has a clear roadmap for success.

10. Ongoing professional development opportunities: To support the copy reader’s growth and skill enhancement, the company should provide access to ongoing professional development opportunities. This task involves identifying relevant training programs, workshops, conferences, or online courses that can help the copy reader stay updated with industry trends and improve their editing skills. The HR department or a designated professional development coordinator typically performs this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Copy Reader checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Copy Reader up to speed and working well in your Editing team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.