Interviewing an Editor: The 7 Questions You Need to Ask by Lauren Hidden
By Jerry D. Simmons | August 22nd, 2007 | 1 Comment » (Click to add yours!)
Maintaining editorial control is one aspect of self-publishing many authors love. However, some authors equate “editorial control” with “I edited it myself” or “My friend the high-school English teacher edited my book.” But just as mainstream publishers employ professional editors, so should independent authors. If done well, an independently published book should be indistinguishable from a traditionally published one—inside and out. This includes a catchy title, an attractive cover, and most importantly, flowing, logical, and professionally edited text.
Though it may be tempting to save money and do it yourself, self-editing is not a good substitute for professional editing. Having an objective, experienced eye to evaluate and edit your work is worth its weight in gold. A good editor won’t just fix your grammar and usage oversights, but will let you know what sections in your book need to be expanded, clarified, or removed. In fiction, an editor will also make sure your story stays consistent, not just in tone, but in plot and “voice” as well. Your editor will let you know about all the problems you (or your friend the high-school English teacher) weren’t aware of.
Once you’ve accepted that you need an editor, the next step is to choose the right one. Putting your “baby” in someone else’s hands can be a little scary. And, as with any profession, there are good editors and not-so-good ones, so do your homework. Reputation carries a lot of weight in this field. Ask other authors and industry gurus (agents, book publicists, publishing consultants, etc.) for recommendations. Another good source to find independent editors is in the acknowledgements section of other self-published books you like—good editors usually receive glowing praise.
Once you’ve come up with names of potential editors, it’s time for the “interview.” Send an email or pick up the phone. Then use these 7 questions to evaluate whether or not the prospective editor is a good fit for you:
- 1) “What genre(s) do you specialize in?” Editing a book written for 4 to 7-year-olds requires different knowledge and expertise than a “how to” book on financial planning. Make sure the editor you’ll be working with is experienced in the type of book you’re writing.
- 2) “What is your editing process?” Editing can be a very time-intensive process. Your editor might describe an initial read-through to get an overall “feel” for the book, another sweep for a content edit, a return to you for input and reviewing of changes, another copy edit, and a final proofread or two. Whatever the specific process, you should be satisfied that your editor will dedicate the appropriate time and energy to your manuscript.
- 3) “What are your rates?” Editors will charge by the project, by the word, by the page, or by the hour. Do you prefer a flat, all-inclusive rate, or one that is open-ended? If an editor asks to see your manuscript before giving you a project rate, don’t be alarmed. Editors that set custom rates need to see what they’ll be working with to give you a fair price.
- 4) “What are your payment terms?” Does the editor require payment in advance? Fifty percent down and fifty percent at completion? Three equal payments? What forms of payment does the editor accept? If you need to pay by credit card and the editor only accepts cash and checks, it’s better to know that upfront.
- 5) “Will you complete a brief sample edit for free?” Most editors will agree to edit a few pages for free. It’s better for both of you to know up-front if your styles match. Keep in mind though, the editor does not have the complete perspective of the book and the sample edit may vary from the final one. It should, however, give you an idea of their editing style.
- 6) “Will you be doing the actual editing?” Sometimes the person you’re speaking with during an initial consult will not be the person editing your book. Ask who your editor will be and why that person was chosen. A good company will match you with the editor that is the best fit for your manuscript.
- 7) “What is your turnaround time?” Since many editors only work on one book at a time, talented editors often have a backlog. Make sure they can deliver your book within the timeframe you need. If they can’t, ask for referrals to other editors they know and trust.
If you have additional questions, go ahead and ask. I’ve been asked about my favorite author, my favorite book, my muse, etc. If it’s not overly personal, it’s fair game! The main goal is to feel comfortable with your editor. Ask for referrals, ask the right questions, and then go with your gut. Working with your editor can be an intense (though short-lived) relationship, so make sure your editor is someone you will enjoy working with. Once you’ve made a decision, be sure to get your agreement in writing, outlining all the expectations and terms on both sides. A good editor will have a fair work agreement or contract.
Finally, enjoy the editing process. You will be thrilled to see your editor take your manuscript from good to great. When you see the changes, you’ll undoubtedly think, “Why didn’t I think of that?” And you can rest assured that your finished book will be a joy for your readers, and an accomplishment you can be proud of.
Lauren Hidden is the owner of The Hidden Helpers, a ghostwriting, editorial services, and book design firm. She is the co-author of Write It Right, The Ground Rules for Self-Editing Like the Pros and Entrepreneurial Freedom: How to Start and Grow a Profitable Virtual Assistance Practice. For more information, visit The Hidden Helpers on the web at http://www.thehiddenhelpers.com, or email your seven questions or more to Lauren@thehiddenhelpers.com.
Leave a Reply
Thank you for a very helpful article. I’m very green to this whole process so it’s all a revelation to me. Pieces like this take a lot of the mystery out of the workings.
Regards,
John Shannon