Things to Know Before Hiring an Editor

These days, anybody can publish content. However, getting that content seen is sometimes difficult, particularly if it’s not as polished as it should be.

Engaging the services of an editor and proofreader (like me) could offer the edge that gets you ahead of the pack. In this article, I will discuss some things you need to consider when hiring an editor and proofreader to ensure you get the most benefit from the process.

The Different Types of Editing

Before hiring an editor, it’s important to understand the different levels of editing and proofreading, and what to expect from the process. There are several levels of editing so it’s important to understand what these are, and what you will receive before engaging an editor. Take the following as a basic guide:

• Developmental or substantive editing is the looks at things like structure, organisation, and consistency with your ideal audience or publication goals in mind. There may also be a certain amount of rewriting, including removing or expanding on sections of your work.

When you choose this type of editing (or it is recommended to you by your editor), you will probably not see many changes to your spelling and punctuation, as it focuses more on the flow of your writing, than the actual words themselves. If you want your editor to focus on spelling and punctuation, be aware that you are asking for a different service, which will more than likely incur additional costs.

• Copyediting, according to the Institute of Professional Editors, is the most detailed form of editing.

“The focus is on grammar, spelling, capitalisation, punctuation, hyphenation and overall correctness and consistency.” An editor may also refer to a publication’s style sheet – if there is one – to make sure your work ties in with their own house rules.

If necessary, they will confirm the accuracy of dates and quotations used within your text and make sure that, visually, elements such as tables, diagrams and typography are correct.

• Proofreading is the most basic and final stage of editing.

It focuses solely on correcting spelling, punctuation and grammar issues, and conformity with style guides. At no time will an editor discuss the layout, structure, or development of your work. Most people who engage proofreading services do so as a final check of their work before it is published, to ensure no errors have creeped in during the typesetting or copyediting stage.

 

Be Flexible and Accept Feedback

In this situation, the editors are the professionals and ultimately, you are going to them for advice. It’s important to be guided by their suggestions. For instance, you may believe that your work only requires a light proofread, but the editor may advise a more intensive edit.

Understand that they know what to look for when it comes to these kinds of things and be open to accepting their advice where possible. It may just be the difference between your work being published or remaining in the slush pile.

Remember that it’s not personal. Like any other, editing is a business and editors want to assist in making your work the best it can be. Any feedback is not based on your personality or likeability, but rather improving on what you have created.

 

Be Realistic Regarding Deadlines

Editing and proofreading is a very important stage of the publishing process, but it can take time.

When engaging an editor and proof reader, be mindful of the fact that you are often not their only client. Any deadlines you set or are given by your editor need to be realistic of the time it takes for the work to be completed. You would not, for example, ask an editor to complete a substantive edit (or even proofread) of a 50,000-word manuscript within 48 hours – it’s simply not a viable request.

 

Respect Their Rates

Editors play a vital role in the publication process, and most professionals want to offer their clients the best quality service possible. The service they offer, however, is not cheap and you need to be prepared for this before approaching them. While some editors charge $60/hour, others may charge upwards of $80. Some may even work out their fee based on word count.

Most editors have their standard rate, but often they will charge based on the work provided and come up with a quote after viewing a sample of your work. When it comes down to it, what an editor charges is their decision and not something they approach lightly. Sure, you may be able to get the service you want elsewhere for cheaper, but ask yourself: will the quality of work you receive in return be as good?

 

Communicate

Working with an editor is a partnership. You are trusting them with your work, and sometimes will need to communicate with you throughout the process. No one likes to be bombarded with emails or phone calls, but it’s important to be responsive to any questions they may ask, as it may make a big difference to your finished product.

It works both ways. If you’re unhappy with their work, or need clarification on something, talk to them. Most of the time, your editor will be more than willing to assist, and if there really is an issue, it may be something you can work on together.

Of course, these are just a few tips on what to expect from the editing process. But considering these may just help clarify an area that for some, can be a little daunting.

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Are you ready now? Contact me to discuss how my freelance services can help make your work stand out from the crowd.