Substack terms

Editor

The interface for creating and editing newsletters.

What is an editor in Substack?

An editor in Substack is a role that allows a person to manage and oversee the content being published on a Substack newsletter. This role involves proofreading, editing, and approving the content before it is published to ensure it meets the quality standards of the platform and the expectations of the readers. The editor may also be involved in planning the content strategy, deciding on the topics to be covered, and scheduling the publication of the posts.

In addition to these responsibilities, an editor in Substack may also interact with subscribers, respond to their comments, and manage the community around the newsletter. They may also have the ability to manage the settings of the newsletter, including its design and layout. However, the specific responsibilities and permissions of an editor can vary depending on the settings chosen by the owner of the Substack newsletter.

How much does a Substack editor make?

The earnings of a Substack editor can vary greatly depending on several factors. These factors include the number of subscribers they have, the subscription fee they charge, and the frequency of their publications. Substack typically takes a 10% cut of the subscription fees, so the more subscribers an editor has and the higher the subscription fee, the more they can potentially earn.

For instance, if an editor charges $5 per month and has 1,000 subscribers, they could earn $4,500 per month after Substack's cut. However, it's important to note that building a large subscriber base can take time and effort. Some well-known writers with large followings have reported earning six-figure incomes on Substack, but these are exceptions rather than the norm. Most Substack editors earn a modest income from their work on the platform.

What are the responsibilities of a Substack editor?

A Substack editor is responsible for a variety of tasks related to content creation and management. They are primarily responsible for overseeing the creation, editing, and publication of content on the Substack platform. This includes reviewing and editing articles, newsletters, or other content for clarity, grammar, and accuracy. They may also be involved in the planning and development of content strategies, ensuring that the content aligns with the brand's voice and goals.

In addition to content management, a Substack editor may also be responsible for managing relationships with writers and contributors, providing feedback and guidance to improve their work. They may also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling publications and managing subscriptions. Furthermore, they may be involved in audience engagement, analyzing reader feedback and metrics to understand what content resonates with the audience and using this information to inform future content strategies.

How to become an editor on Substack?

To become an editor on Substack, you first need to create an account on the platform. Visit the Substack website and click on the "Get Started" button. You will be asked to provide your email address and create a password. Once you have done this, you will be directed to a page where you can start creating your newsletter.

Substack does not have a specific role as an "editor". Instead, each user is essentially their own editor and publisher. You can write, edit, and publish your own newsletters. You can also choose whether to make your newsletter free or paid, and you can set your own subscription prices. Substack provides tools for writing and editing, as well as analytics to help you understand your audience. It's important to note that while anyone can create a newsletter on Substack, building a large and engaged audience typically requires high-quality content and effective marketing.

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