Is Coding a Good Career for an Editor?

In the modern world of publishing and digital media, an editor’s role has evolved significantly. Jobs in editing and publishing now often require a blend of traditional editorial skills and digital technological proficiency. Can coding be a beneficial addition to an editor's professional arsenal? Let's explore the reasons and benefits of combining editing with coding skills.

Enhanced Skill Set

One of the most compelling reasons for an editor to learn coding is the significant enhancement it brings to their skill set. Editors who gain proficiency in programming can become more versatile professionals, equipped to handle a wider array of tasks.

For instance, understanding the basics of coding can enable editors to grasp the mechanics behind various digital tools used in modern publishing processes. From platforms like WordPress to content management systems (CMS), coding knowledge can provide insights into how these tools operate, facilitating smoother operations and better collaboration with technical teams.

Understanding of Digital Tools

Almost all editing and publishing tasks are now digitized. Being able to code means editors can:

Understand the intricacies of digital tools and platforms. Troubleshoot issues related to digital content delivery and management. Streamline workflows to maximize productivity. Create or modify simple elements of digital content without relying on developers.

This level of technical understanding is not only beneficial but essential in today’s digital age, making editors more valuable assets to publishers and tech companies alike.

Content Management

Many publishers and content platforms require editors to manage online content effectively. Knowing how to use HTML, CSS, or JavaScript can give editors the control they need to make basic changes to web pages or digital media. This level of access can enhance the quality and relevance of the content published.

Career Opportunities

The synergistic combination of editing and coding skills can open up new career pathways for editors in a variety of sectors:

Content Strategy: Developing and executing content strategies that leverage both text and code to engage and inform audiences. Digital Marketing: Crafting and optimizing content for digital channels, combining editorial skill with knowledge of coding and marketing trends. Product Management: Managing the creation and improvement of digital products, ensuring that content aligns with technical and user needs.

Editors who possess coding skills are highly sought after in fields like web content editing, SEO optimization, and digital media production. These roles often offer freelance opportunities, allowing editors to work on diverse projects and enhance their professional networks.

Editor and Developer Collaboration

One of the key advantages of combining editorial and coding skills is the potential for enhanced collaboration with technical teams. Editors with coding knowledge can communicate more effectively with developers, leading to more efficient project execution. This mutual understanding fosters a collaborative environment where ideas and technical solutions can flow seamlessly.

Personal Experience

Many editors have already proven that they are well-suited for coding. For example, I started in journalism but switched streams to coding, thanks to my previous experience in writing and editing. My ability to spot errors in code, similar to spot errors in text, has been invaluable in identifying and resolving critical issues in digital content.

My journey to becoming a full-fledged coding professional did not begin with formal training but with a passion for technology and the desire to learn. My role at the current company came about because of the coding skills I brought from my journalism background, and my strong communication skills. Over time, I have expanded my coding knowledge, adding new languages and tools to my repertoire, further enhancing my value to the team.

It is clear that while coding may not be a requirement for all editorial roles, it can provide a significant advantage. The ability to code can open up new career pathways and make editors more versatile and marketable in the competitive publishing and tech industries.