Working with an editor isn’t the right choice for everyone. Many choose to self-edit. But before you make that choice for yourself, it’s good to know what exactly you’ll be missing out on. Here are just a few:
A Network of Support for Your Novel (and You!)
Let’s face it. Writing is hard. Editing is hard. Querying is hard. It’s all hard, and the best way to get yourself through the tough times is by having a support system to fall back on and help when you need it. But it can be even more helpful when it comes time to publish your novel. Whether you’re self-publishing or going the traditional route, you’re going to be working your butt off to spread word. Having a network of support can make a huge difference to ensure you’re reaching a wide reading audience, and working with an editor even for a small project can connect you with a broader audience.
Immediately Applicable Learning Opportunities
Most writers I know are always looking for ways to improve their work. They’re writing to keep practicing, reading books and blogs for new tips and tricks, talking with other writers about obstacles they’re having either in writing groups or through social media. But what you’re going to find is a lot of generic advice that experts are likely suggesting because of work they’ve seen where it applies, but your selection bias is likely to be off. Many pieces of advice that resonate with you are often ones that you’ll already be working on and not be your biggest flaws. So, does your dialogue timing suck, or is that just something you’re focused on right now because you love it? This is something you don’t have to worry about when working with an editor. They’re going to tailor their feedback to your needs.
An Unbiased Source of Industry Knowledge
There are a few shortcomings of working with critique partners alone. One is that a critique partner has their own work they’re focused on. In all likelihood, they are absolutely in love with it. Why else would they be writing it? But that means they’re reading your book through the lens of what they love about their own, and that can cloud their judgement. Another is that few critique partners have insight into how the industry works. But working with an editor or book coach, it’s their job to ensure these factors are something they can overcome. And their insider knowledge can make a huge difference when it comes time for you to snag an agent.
A Clear Vision of Your Authorial Voice, Improved
Working with an editor doesn’t have to be an all or nothing thing. If you’re wanting help with development but don’t have the cash, consider doing a hired beta reader situation. Same goes for copy and line edits. You don’t have to be able to afford a full edit of your novel to get a clearer vision of how to better self-edit. You can just hire an editor for a chapter or three to help guide you and show you what your voice could be with a little extra nudge. And many editors can then point you toward resources that will help you self-edit based upon their experience with your work. That way you’re not treading water on your own.
Potential Scams
I would feel remiss not to add that not all editorial experiences for authors go well. With the literary market being as competitive as it is these days, there are many who are under qualified trying to give advice, and authors have been swindled out of money on bad advice. Here are a couple tips to safeguard yourself against this happening to you:
Do your research. Does the editor you’re interested in working with have professional editorial experience beyond freelance?
If you’re interested in a developmental edit, get a book coaching session or beta read of your novel done first. This will give you insight into whether the editor has a complementary vision for your story to your own before shelling out the big bucks.
If you’re looking for line editing, copyediting, or proofreading, ask for a sample edit first free of charge. This will give you insight into whether their editorial style works for you. It’s standard protocol, and a refusal for one by any editor is a huge red flag.
Being an author is a hard gig to sign up for, and for whatever reason, we like to call it a hobby. Haha. It’s sadistic. But having others to help lift you up is a great way to make it a little more fun while learning and growing. For many, this looks like working with an editor, and there are some great opportunities you would otherwise miss out on if you pass.
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