While self-editing is an important part of the writing process, hiring a professional editor can take your book to the next level. An editor can help you refine your manuscript, ensuring it’s polished, engaging, and ready for publication. Although not required, working with an editor is strongly recommended for self-published authors, especially if you’re working on an illustrated book. Here’s everything you need to know about finding and hiring the right editor.
Why Hire a Professional Editor?
A professional editor brings an objective, experienced eye to your manuscript. They can help you with various aspects of your book, including:
- Polishing the Text: Editors catch grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, and inconsistencies that you may have missed during self-editing.
- Enhancing Story Flow: A good editor will help ensure your story flows smoothly from one page to the next, which is critical in picture books where pacing matters.
- Improving Character and Dialogue: Editors can provide valuable feedback on character development and dialogue, ensuring that each voice feels authentic and true to the age of the characters.
- Ensuring Age Appropriateness: Editors, especially those experienced with children’s books, can ensure your content is appropriate for the target audience in terms of both language and themes.
Working with an editor is like having a partner who helps you fine-tune your book, making it the best it can be before publication.
Types of Editors and What They Do
There are different types of editors, each with their own focus. Depending on the needs of your manuscript, you may work with one or more of the following:
- Developmental Editor: A developmental editor helps with the big picture. They focus on the structure, pacing, character development, and overall flow of the story. They can help you make sure your book has a strong foundation and that your story resonates with readers.
- Line Editor: Line editors work on the sentence level, improving the flow and readability of your manuscript. They help refine word choice, sentence structure, and tone, making sure your story reads smoothly and keeps the reader engaged.
- Copy Editor: A copy editor focuses on the technical aspects of the text, correcting grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency. They also check for continuity errors or inconsistencies in the narrative.
- Proofreader: Proofreaders are the last line of defense before publication. They focus on catching any remaining typos, punctuation errors, or formatting issues.
Depending on the stage of your manuscript, you may need to hire a combination of these editors or focus on one area.
How to Find a Professional Editor
Finding the right editor can feel daunting, but there are several reliable ways to connect with experienced professionals who specialize in self-publishing and illustrated books:
- Referrals: Start by asking other authors in your network or writing communities for recommendations. Personal referrals can lead you to trusted editors who have a proven track record.
- Editing Associations: Organizations like the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) or the Association of Canadian Editorial Professionals (Editors Canada) are great places to find vetted professionals who specialize in different types of editing.
- Freelance Platforms: Websites like Reedsy, Fiverr, and Upwork allow you to browse editor profiles, see reviews, and compare rates. These platforms are a great starting point for finding freelance editors with experience in your genre.
- Author Groups: Many self-publishing communities, both online and offline, offer resources for finding editors who understand the specific needs of indie authors. Look for groups that focus on children’s books, picture books, or your genre specifically.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Editor
Once you’ve identified potential editors, it’s important to have a conversation to make sure they’re the right fit for your project. Here are some key questions to ask:
- Do you have experience editing picture books or illustrated books? It’s crucial that your editor understands the unique dynamics of working with text and illustrations.
- Can you provide samples of your previous work? Review their past projects to ensure their editing style aligns with your vision.
- What types of editing services do you provide? Clarify whether they offer developmental editing, copy editing, proofreading, or all of the above.
- What is your turnaround time? Make sure the editor’s availability matches your timeline.
- What are your rates, and how do you charge? Some editors charge per word, page, or hour. Be clear about the costs up front to avoid surprises.
How to Work with a Professional Editor
Working with an editor is a collaborative process. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and productive experience:
- Be Open to Feedback: An editor’s job is to help improve your manuscript, but that means they may suggest changes that you didn’t expect. Keep an open mind and remember that their goal is to make your book stronger.
- Provide Context: Let your editor know about your vision, your target audience, and any specific concerns you have about the manuscript. The more context they have, the better they can tailor their feedback to meet your needs.
- Communicate Clearly: Make sure you and your editor are on the same page regarding deadlines, expectations, and the scope of the work. Good communication will help avoid misunderstandings.
- Be Ready for Multiple Rounds: Editing is often a multi-step process. Be prepared for revisions after the first round of edits, and understand that this is part of refining your story.
