Just Browsing…

On By Editor Karolyn HIn Editing Projects, Projects 2017Leave a comment

justlooking

Project quote

“Some people use in-store shopping for entertainment, bonding or reasons other than just getting a specific product. The value this provides to the shopper should not be overlooked and may be harder to reproduce in current online retail experiences.”
(Paul Corrado; eCommerce: Theory, Elements, Experience, Nuance and Change in the Retail Landscape)

My thoughts

Online shopping is great. Buy a new computer in your pajamas. Find the best deal on quality art supplies after quick online comparisons. Order a T-shirt with your favorite show’s main character on it, something impossible to find at local stores. But…. Does anyone remember cruising the mall with your friends, spending an hour or two in Hot Topic or Spencer’s looking at the weird and wacky? What about wandering around Target looking for great Christmas gift and decorating ideas? Shopping at the bookstore so you can drool over all the new books and accessories that you wish you could afford to buy and having a heart to heart with your bestie at the coffee shop over a pastry and beverage. Window shopping that turns into a spree and spa day. Oh, and don’t think I forgot about guys’ favorite addictions: hardware and sporting goods stores, where projects and dreams take shape.

Yes, of course people still do these things. But it sure seems like online shopping has become much more prevalent and more heavily promoted. The internet is fantastic – I sell my own services online! But there is still so much value to be found by shopping in physical stores. Just last week, I popped into a local art gallery and found a variety of beautiful and unique gifts and items that just wouldn’t have had the same impact on me if viewed on a monitor or phone.  I also love the local Farmer’s Market and visit at least a couple times every summer, preferably with friends, when music is playing, and the sun is shining.

Editing projects for week ending September 3, 2017
Non-fiction book, Academic Research Article
Client countries: US, China

 

English Invasion

On By Editor Karolyn HIn Editing Projects, Projects 2017Leave a comment

language

Project quote

“The greater portion of the globe has become dependent on English for international exchanges and practical matters including business and other involvement in world activities.”  (Feng Teng, M., 2017; NMET Policy in Mainland China.)

My thoughts

I was actually surprised to learn of the prevalence of English in international business when editing the quoted article. This prevalence would not exist in local business, of course, outside English speaking countries.

I’m always amazed when people claim that immigrants shouldn’t be required to learn English when they come to the United States. If English is so necessary for international business, why on earth should anyone expect to be able to live in the US and not know the dominant language? If I ever move outside of the US, I would certainly make an effort to learn the native language of the country I’m moving to, both before and after I move. Heck, I’d probably be required to in order to become a resident. I love language, and I love diversity of culture and language. But I don’t feel that it’s reasonable for anyone to expect to move somewhere and not attempt to conform to the local society, laws and language.

Editing projects for week ending August 13, 2017
Gaming Items and Services Website, Academic Research Article
Client countries: US, China

 

Fighting Words

On By Editor Karolyn HIn Editing Projects, Projects 2017Leave a comment

swordshield

Project quote

“I began to realize that words are a powerful weapon…you can breathe life and death into someone with a mere word.” (Marc Laroc, The Spark)

My thoughts

Words are important. Actions speak louder, but words are still important. A great idea communicated clearly and eloquently is much more likely to be understood and implemented. Criticism can either tear someone down, or challenge them to improve, depending on the words used to deliver it. Simple words like, “Yes”, “No”, “I love you” can encompass an entire world of intentions, and change someone’s life course.

Like guns, words can be used as weapons for good or bad. They can support, defend and shield. Or, they can wound and frighten.

Editing projects for week ending July 30, 2017
Academic Research Study Article, Fiction Book
Client countries: China, Canada

 

Dialogue

On By Editor Karolyn HIn Editing Projects, Projects 2017Leave a comment

bridge

Project quote

“The Bridge Between believes that sales are built upon good relationships and business partnerships.”  (Nick Brandy, The Bridge Between)

My thoughts

This statement can apply to any type of sales in any field. First time sales may be achieved through any number of means: promotions, referrals, convenience, etc. But continued sales will almost always only happen if a good relationship has been built between buyer and seller. Even when negotiating for the first sale, in many circumstances, the rapport that is established, reputation that has already been built, and the initial dialogue will either entice the potential buyer to complete the purchase or move on to someone else’s offer.

Editing projects for week ending July 16, 2017
Digital Marketing Website content
Client countries: UK