Working with an editor can be one of the most challenging aspects of self-publishing, but it’s also one of the most important ones. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, you need to make sure that your writing is up to the mark and that there are no grammatical errors that may confuse your readers or disturb the flow of your story.
The first step in finding an editor is knowing what to look for and how you will benefit from having their help. That’s where the following list of 8 tips for working with an editor will help you.
1. Have a Clear Vision for Your Project
The first step to working with an editor is to have a clear vision for your project. You need to be very specific about what you want and how you see it being accomplished. It’s important to know what kind of editing you need, whether that be line editing, copy editing, or content editing.
Once you’ve established the type of edit that will work best, the next step is locating qualified manuscript editing services, getting in contact with them, and asking for their package for your work.
You want an editor who will challenge your writing and help you produce the best work possible. You want someone who is knowledgeable about your craft but still has fresh eyes.
2. Communicate Effectively
When communicating with your editor, use short sentences and words that are easy to understand. You should also make sure that any corrections you want your editor to make are specific and well-supported by the text.
It is important to be clear and concise in your writing. One good way of doing this is to make notes on the passages where you need changes. Your editor will appreciate this because it makes it easier for them to see exactly what changes you want to be made, without having to spend a lot of time trying to figure out what your problem areas are.
Moreover, effective communication with your editor will also result in cost savings on your editing work.
3. Avoid Sending Them Your First Draft
Your first draft is a product of your creative process, and it may not be the best representation of your work. Consider writing a second draft that is the improved version of the last draft before sending it to an editor, or have a trusted friend read over your work first to ensure you’re satisfied with it.
You don’t want to submit your unfinished piece without giving yourself time to edit or giving your partner enough time to edit.
4. Agree on What an Edit Comprises
An editor is someone who reads your work and gives you feedback on how to improve it. A good editor will not only point out grammar mistakes and typos, but they’ll also give you advice on how to make the content stronger or clearer.
There are many types of editing included in your work. For example, if you are planning to work with a developmental editor, they will probably don’t find and fix any issues in your grammar. On the other hand, a copy editor will work on improving your sentence structure rather than focusing on the big picture.
So, you will have to agree on what type of editing you need in your work and then select an editor based on this decision.
5. Agree on a Rate Upfront
The first thing to remember is that writers and editors are in different fields, so they should be paid accordingly. Writers are compensated by the number of words written, while editors are typically paid per hour or project.
However, if you’re a writer who wants to hire an editor, it’s best to be up-front about what you’re willing to pay them before starting work. A good place to start is by looking at editorial rates in magazines or on online platforms. You can also ask your friends and publishers about the recommendations.
Asking potential candidates how much they charge can also help make sure everyone’s expectations are on the same page. Agreeing on a rate upfront will not only keep things running smoothly but will help you avoid any costly disagreements down the road.
6. Don’t be Afraid to Negotiate
Once you’ve found a manuscript agent and editor, the next step is to find out what they’re looking for and what you can expect from them. This can be a tricky process, but don’t be afraid to negotiate with your agent and editor about the prices and process of editing.
You may want to ask questions like:
- How much are they willing to work with me?
- What kind of edits will they make?
- What revisions do I need to provide before the manuscript is sent back?
7. Be Open to Feedback
It is important to be open to feedback your editor provides you. Your editor will be able to point out things you may not have noticed. Remember that your editor wants your story to be the best it can be, so take everything they say with a grain of salt.
If you find yourself frustrated or upset about the errors in your writing, remember that it’s okay. The editors are just there to help you make your writing great.
When working with an editor, it’s important to be open-minded and willing to accept criticism. You don’t have to agree with everything they say, but you should listen carefully and try your best to understand their reasoning.
8. Keep your Deadlines
Keeping your deadlines is one of the most important things you can do while working with an editor. Whenever you submit content to be edited, make sure that you give your editor enough time to work on it.
If you submit a bunch of chapters of your manuscript at once and forget to specify when they should be edited, your editor may not have enough time to work on all of them by their deadline. Make sure that you discuss deadlines with your editor before submitting anything so that they know what kind of timeline they’re dealing with.
Even if you are a proficient writer, you will still need professional editing and proofreading services. All these above-mentioned tips will help you work effectively with the editor of your choice and get your work published in the perfect form.
