Before you hire an editor, you need to know what kind of help you’re looking for.
This post offers excellent advice to new writers. Read it. Save it. Keep referring back to it but to summarise.
- Avoid the temptation to submit a first draft. (Really never do this. Harry DeWulf has some great advice on self-editing)
- Editing and ghostwriting are not the same thing.
- Is your book in the editor’s preferred genre. (I am not fussy, my tastes are fairly eclectic but I do enjoy prophetic dystopian sci-fi).
- Critical feedback is a given. It is our job to help you improve your work.We want you to succeed.
- Writing is a hike not a sprint. It takes time to get it right so set realistic goals.
- Copy-editing and proofreading are a waste of time and money prior to addressing structure and clarity.
- Do not confuse being published with being a good writer.
- Tell your editor what you want to accomplish. It is your work, and it makes their job easier.
- Minor changes to tiny details are not revision. Don’t be afraid to discuss the feedback if you disagree with it. (See point 8).
- The editor is on your side: the reader won’t be, but remember that it is your work.