You are now at the part of adding the words “the end” to your manuscript that’s been going on for quite some time. You can now envision your book resting on shelves in several bookshops and stalls everywhere. But the thing is, you still need to do a lot before that happens. The next part of the process is to look for an editor who will polish your work. Working with an editor can have its challenges, but it can also be a rewarding experience. So we will break down what you need to do when working with editors in Australia.
The Things To Consider
Of course, you will want to have things go as smoothly as they can get. That means everything has to be clear when working with a potential editor. A lot of aspiring writers and authors doubt editors. Some of them even fear that an editor might take their work and run away. But you should take those fears away if you want your manuscript to get somewhere. You have to build a relationship with an editor to get your book off the ground.
- Trust
Possibly the most crucial factor in any relationship is trust. We cannot stress enough how critical it is that you trust your potential editor. Looking for and hiring one is not only about skills and experience. But how do you even find one who is trustworthy? The first thing you can do is visit an editor’s website. Look for testimonials regarding their previous work. Find out what past clients have to say about them. It would also go a long way to ask an editor some questions via email.
- The best ally ever
Your potential editor is not someone who wants to take over your work. They are professional workers who want o see you succeed someday. An editor is your greatest publishing ally. They are the butter of your book sandwich.
- Not thieves
You might be thinking that an author will steal your work. That is not the case at all. Any editor who gets caught stealing another person’s work will have a hard time. They will lose their credibility and have challenges looking for other work opportunities. Not only that, but fewer and fewer people will be willing to partner up with them.
- Previous experience
Another thing to consider would be the editor’s past projects. You can also ask about an editor’s previous jobs. They will be more than willing to send you a sample or two. But that might not always be the case. Some editors might have agreements and deals with their past clients that prevent them from sharing work. That is not entirely a bad thing. What you can do is request something else that they can provide.
- Agreement
Working with anyone will require something to seal the deal. In an editor’s case, that comes in the form of an agreement. It can be a written one, verbal, or something else entirely. An agreement acts as a form of protection for both parties. An agreement will contain details of the project, such as payment, duration, and so on. The accord means that you have a service to receive and that an editor expects to receive pay for such services.
- Be considerate with their rates.
Almost every person on the planet has bills to pay and expenses to accomplish. The same goes for editors. They, too, need to pay for rent, food, gas, and other things. That is why you have to be considerate when it comes to rates and payment. Sure, no two editors have a settled or fixed rate. That is unless they work together in a firm or something similar. Potential editor A might have a higher rate than editor B. But editor B has a lot more experience than editor A. It is up to you to check these factors.
So think about it first once an editor mentions their rate. Most editors will be fair with what they ask. Only a minimal portion goes overboard with their prices. Some of them have the experience to back it up. You still have the option to work with an editor who has a ridiculous rate. We are not telling you not to do so. But you have to be very specific when it comes to project details and other information. After all, it is the money we are talking about overall. You will want to get the best of it as much as you can.
- Someone you can relate with
Another thing to take note of will be an editor who can relate to what you want. Do not begin discussions with an editor who specializes in law and other technical matters. But your manuscript is about light comedy and fantasy. It will go a long way to locate an editor who you can vibe with totally. Not only will it make things easier. It will also allow you to expand your work without feeling embarrassed or weirded out.
- No publishing contract
Another thing that most clients think is that an editor can – and will – secure your manuscript a deal with a publishing house. Although there are some exceptions, not everyone can do such an action. What happens is that an editor will only polish your work. They will make sure that it is publish-worthy. They can also contact an agent who will look at the manuscript. It is the agent’s job to look for a potential publishing house.
- Brief and specific
It will be your turn to ask and inquire once an editor finishes the job. But you have to be brief and specific with what you want to ask. You can find out why an editor has mentioned a necessary change in one or two sentences.
As A Final Note
Working with the ideal editor will be more than a professional experience. You will get the chance to find out how the editing and polishing process works. Not only that, but you also get to meet someone new. Remember that an editor is your gateway to book and blogging success. So it is paramount that you work with someone you can trust.
