Scott Prentzas

I edit and proofread B2B and B2C content for top brands, SMBs, and innovative startups across a wide range of industries. I excel at fine-tuning text in diverse formats, including white papers, case studies, bylined articles, infographics, blog posts, email drip campaigns, and slide decks. Whether perfecting copy requires a light touch or a heavy hand, I work collegially with clients, writers, subject matter experts, content strategists, designers, and other stakeholders to create substantively accurate, concisely written, and engaging content that conveys messages effectively to technical or nontechnical audiences, enabling them to make better-informed decisions or gain new knowledge. I’m meticulous about grammar, usage, and other technical aspects of writing, and I’m adept at ensuring narrative and brand voice shine through in all copy. I also research and write B2B content, primarily white papers, e-books, bylined articles, case studies, blog posts, and text for infographics.

How do you manage critical feedback on your work?

Criticism is integral to the editorial process, so I’ve never taken it personally. I use it to refine the text to address a client’s stated and unstated concerns.

Was there something specific about Writing that made you realize it was the path for you?

As a student, I recognized that I communicated more effectively in writing than verbally. In law school, I served as a staff member of a student-run law journal and realized that I liked editing and writing better than law. So instead of studying for the bar exam after graduation, I attended a summer publishing course and started my career as an editorial assistant at a major book publisher.

How do you work with clients to ensure their vision is accurately represented in your work?

I do my best to understand a client’s brand mission, vision, and voice and to place myself in the mindset of its customers. I also analyze a brand’s existing messaging to get a stronger sense of its house style and how it communicates.

What’s your experience been like working with such varied brands?

It’s always fascinating to plunge into an unfamiliar industry, learn about a new product, or connect with a different audience. I’ve been fortunate to gain many insights and best practices from working with a wide range of clients.

What are some valuable lessons you’ve learned professionally so far?

Remain laser-focused on reader or audience needs. Be collaborative. Be efficient. Be flexible.

Who are your influences?

Nonfiction writer Joseph Mitchell for his direct, engaging style; John Keats and Edith Wharton for their use of language; and many editorial mentors and colleagues who taught me the ropes.

What’s the most valuable skill you’ve learned so far professionally?

I’ve learned how to avoid the temptation to fiddle with text endlessly but also the importance of heeding the spidey sense that something’s not right before submitting the copy.