Editor Red Flags: How to spot them and steer clear.
Since I have started editing, I have heard too many horror stories of bad editors. Between editors never finishing their edit, to taking over the story with their own voice, to demanding that characters or sections be cut, the tales are endless.
First let’s look at what a great editor does:
Strengthen your voice.
Find those pesky grammar and punctuation errors.
Be your biggest cheerleader.
Make the process exciting instead of frustrating.
Explain and help you decide what type of editing will be best based on your sample. (You can check out my Services Page to see the types of editing I offer.)
Partner with you to make your book the best it can be.
Not fight with you about what should or shouldn’t be done.
Have references or testimonials. (You can find mine here!)
Does this sound like someone you’d like to work with? Send me a message and let’s get started!
You make the rules when it comes to your manuscript. Yes, we have grammar and punctuation rules. Do’s and don’ts of storytelling. But this is your story. Not your editor’s, and not mine. I recently posted: How to Find Your Ideal Editor, so check that out when you’re ready to begin your search.
We know the good. What are the Red Flags?
No sample offered or provided.
No contract.
Dismissive or defensive communication styles.
They promise perfection or to make your book an instant bestseller.
They can’t explain the difference between the types of editing.
They can’t/don’t explain why they made the choices the did on the sample—even when asked.
You feel frustrated or defeated when reading their notes.
They have no testimonials or references.
Editing is an investment, so if the price feels to good to be true, it probably is. (That is why samples are SO important.)
If you happen to come across any of these while you’re still in the sample phase of your search, you know to look elsewhere. Make sure to let them know you appreciate their time, but you’re looking in another direction. You don’t owe the editor or service your business simply because they gave you a sample. Protect your work.
Have you had a negative experience with an editor in the past? Are you unhappy with how your edit turned out? I am sharing about revision editing next week. You can check out my revision service or fill out the form on my contact page to ask for a sample.
