So, you’ve written your novel, asked your family and friends to read and critique it, and done so much editing yourself you feel your head might spin. What’s your next step?
This is where professional editing comes in. The right editor will help you polish your story—whether it be checking for plot holes or inconsistencies or making sure every last comma is in the right place—and ensure it’s ready for publishing. But, how do you find the right editor for you?
Understand the Different Types of Editing
The crucial first step is understanding what you need from an editor before you start. So, are you planning to publish your book traditionally or to self-publish?
If you want to publish via traditional means, you’ll need to send personalized query letters to literary agents to make yourself stand out. They will want a sample of your manuscript, in which case you may want or need an editorial assessment or a round of developmental editing. Some editors will also review your query letters to ensure they follow industry standards and help you perfect your pitch. And to ensure your sample is as strong as possible, it can’t hurt to submit your first couple of chapters for a round of copy editing.
If you think self-publishing is more up your alley, you will want an editor that can give your manuscript the works or multiple editors specializing in different areas of the editing process. This means you’ll likely get:
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- a sample edit,
- editorial assessment,
- developmental editing,
- copy/line editing,
- and proofreading.
(For a better idea of what these entail, check out my individual services, where I’ve outlined the basics.)
What Do You Need?
You will also need to decide what you want out of the process. Do you want someone who can help you develop your writing skills? Someone who will just return a clean copy of your novel to you? Someone you can ask questions of and have a discussion with? Someone who will ask you questions and work to retain your creative voice? These are important things to know before you decide on an editor. After all, an author and an editor have to mesh to return the best product possible.
It’s also important to ask yourself how experienced an editor you think you need. Do you want someone who’s been in the business for decades? You may come across newer editors who are highly talented, but how are you to determine whether they are the right editor for you?
That’s why I recommend requesting a free sample edit of your choice of services. What the editor returns will help you decide if they are the right fit for you.
I also recommend an intake call to determine what an author is looking for, discuss the editing needs and budget, and come up with a plan that works for everyone. Having a conversation with someone helps to determine their personality, work ethic, and professionalism.
Before You Get Started
So, you think you’ve found the right editor for you. What’s next?
Make sure you sign a contract. Any decent editor will have a contract for you to sign upfront that will detail the services you have decided upon and their work terms, deadlines, and payment. This contract is to protect both editor and author.
Finally, when you send your manuscript, ensure the font and text size are easily legible. No fancy fonts, no crazy formatting. Keep things simple so the editor doesn’t have to spend time reformatting for editing purposes.
Ready to Take the Step?
Hopefully you now feel prepared to find an editor that will act as an investment in you and your work, and help you continue on your writing journey.