Three Common Responses to Working with a Professional Editor
When I told people I worked as a therapist, I usually got one of three reactions.
· You are analyzing me right now, aren’t you?
· Do you think I need your services?
· Or they would simply start telling me all their personal problems.
It is very similar now when I tell folks I am a professional editor.
· You are judging everything I write, even these emails, aren’t you?
· Do you think I need your services?
· “Okay, what should I do with this one particular character who….”
Am I judging you?
As an editor, I often hear variations of this question, and I completely understand it. You have put in a lot of hard work and you want to excel in your craft. Of course, you also want to write a great book. Your writing is a reflection of yourself, so any criticism of it can feel like a personal attack. However, in the author-editor relationship, this is not the case.
I like to make a distinction between judging and using judgment. I never judge, but I do use judgment constantly.
To judge means to "criticize or condemn someone from a position of assumed moral superiority," according to Merriam-Webster. This has no place in editing and it doesn't even cross my mind.
However, using judgment is an essential part of an editor's job. It involves informed discernment and making considered decisions for the benefit of your writing. My goal as an editor is to make your book clearer and more compelling than it was before. Working with me should also help you improve your own writing skills for future projects. My judgment serves these purposes.
But don't just take my word for it. Other editors share similar views.
Kendra Olson believes that writing is a learnable skill rather than simply good or bad: "During a developmental edit, one author expressed concern about the quality of her writing. I reassured her by explaining that writing is like a muscle that can be strengthened, and the author-editor relationship plays a crucial role in this process."
Jennifer Lawler, editor and Resort Director at Club Ed editorial community, suggests vetting potential editors by paying attention to how they talk about authors they work with: "If their online presence consists of constant snark about authors, then you may feel judged if you choose them as your editor. But a good and well-trained editor will focus on helping you produce your best work."
Language editor Claire Cronshaw assures writers that accuracy is not something to be afraid of: "If you're worried about accuracy, don't be. Editors and proofreaders are here to help ensure that your story can be enjoyed by readers. So don't let fear of embarrassment hold you back from seeking an editor's assistance. We are not examiners or teachers, so don't let past experiences in school hinder your success."
Do you think I need Editing?
For some writers, the thought of passing their work off to an editor is a relief; they're ready to be done with it. Others can't seem to let go, constantly tinkering and never feeling satisfied. Most fall somewhere in between, wondering when it's the right time to seek outside help. So how do you know when your work is "ready"?
One thing is for sure: if you haven't gone through at least one thorough revision on your own, it's definitely not ready. But it is ready if you've put in the effort and feel like you've reached your limit without assistance. It's also ready if you're unsure of what to do next or if it's making sense to others. Maybe you excel at big-picture thinking but need help with the smaller details that support your main idea. Or perhaps you've been staring at your writing for so long that you just can't see it clearly anymore. And if you start worrying that your revisions are actually making things worse or taking away from the life of your writing, then it's definitely time to pass it off to someone else for a fresh perspective.
I Have a Bunch of Questions for You:
When do you feel ready to hand over your manuscript to an editor? If you find yourself struggling to detach from your work emotionally, take a deep breath and reflect on why. Is it helpful to revisit the section on judgment? Perhaps discussing your feelings with a trusted friend or colleague can help you explore and ultimately let go.
If you have put in the effort to find an editor who you connect with, I urge you to take the plunge and trust them with your work. A good editor will treat your book with respect and care, rooting for its success and yours. It is important to communicate openly with your editor; if you are feeling nervous, don't hesitate to share that with them. They may suggest adjustments to their process, such as a midway check-in, to ease any concerns.
Now, will an editor completely change my book and make it unrecognizable? Let me be honest: there are editors out there who prioritize their own vision and voice over yours. They may end up stifling your book or altering its essence. However, a competent editor understands the value of maintaining your unique style and will offer thoughtful suggestions while also addressing any issues that may be holding back your manuscript.
This is why initial communication with a potential editor, reading their testimonials, and reviewing a sample edit are crucial steps. Do you appreciate how they interact with you and your work? Are their questions and suggestions aligned with your goals? If not, it is perfectly acceptable to continue searching for an editor who will handle your work with the utmost care and consideration.
Don’t forget to order your free manuscript review:
