In a post on Writers in the Storm, David Lombardino offers advice for writers negotiating the editing process with a professional editor. “Nothing is more enriching or empowering as an author than having an editor who supports and encourages you and provides valuable insight and guidance in the pursuit of your vision,” Lombardino writes. “But how do you find such an editor or develop such a relationship with one?”
One thing to remember is that different editors have different skills. One may be great at story development but not line editing. A great proofreader may not have good advice on characterization. Your first hurdle is deciding what type of editor you need.
How do I find a great proofreader?
“You want someone who has a keen eye for detail and knows grammar and punctuation, as well as any style guide requirements,” Lombardino says. “You want someone who will be right and knows they are right.” But beware – someone who is always right may not be a great partner for developing your story.
How do I Find a great developmental editor?
“A great developmental editor starts with listening to the author and asking questions,” Lombardino writes. “The best developmental editors will listen to your goals and give you recommendations and guidance within that perspective.” Start with a conversation and pay attention to the answers you hear. Does the prospective editor listen, tailor their suggestions to your goals and style, and accept your feedback?
How do I find a great copyeditor/line editor?
“Since a copyeditor’s role includes correcting errors in syntax, grammar and punctuation, you want them to have the proofreader’s mindset I described above,” Lombardino says. “But since their role also includes changes to wording or phrasing that could affect tone, voice and writing style, you also want them to have the developmental editor’s mindset.”
What about editors?
For editors, the challenge is working with a writer who doesn’t want to take feedback or recommendations. Like a doctor whose patient won’t take advice, there’s not much you can do once the writer leaves your office.
