Have you ever thought about writing a book about your business specialty? Finding the appropriate freelance book editor can prove to be a great challenge. The editor you choose plays a significant role in the success of your manuscript and this makes it very important to seek for the right individual; one who’ll take in all your requirements and have the necessary skills to execute the task (successfully). 

For instance, if you’re an emerging writer, the options of available editors can easily leave you more than a bit bewildered. It’s not easy knowing which one is best. And why.

And whether you’re a newbie who has just embarked on writing or a seasoned writer, you’ll be provided some amazing tips on how to choose your new book editor.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the editing industry is projected to grow by 5% over the next decade, driven largely by the rise in self-publishing and demand for freelance editors.

Following (below) are eight characteristics/skills/perks/traits that you must look for while selecting the ideal editor for your work.

1. Familiarity With The Genre

It’s possible to find a great freelance book editor. The best of the best. But… if that editor has no experience in the genre you are working on, he/she might fail to capture the style, tone, and other details. 

The editor should know the preferences/expectations of your audience and help you in refining your work.

Locate editors with experience in your genre and check if their expertise is verified.

2. Effective/Strong Communication Skills

Good communication and relationship between an author and editor is essential for the end result (if you want a good end result, that is). The most effective editors are also great communicators because editing doesn’t only refer to fixing grammar mistakes. 

The editor has to be able to give an appraisal of your work, feedback, respond to your queries efficiently and with courtesy. The editor should (ideally) also go beyond given instructions and proactively communicate suggestions/ideas.

3. Attention To Detail

If the Editor is not detail-oriented, he or she will overlook the development of the characters, plot, or factual information. It is the duty of the editor to ensure that there exists no contradictory information or ambiguous principles (plot holes), or excessive repetition. 

According to The Alliance of Independent Authors, books that have been professionally edited have up to 37% higher chances of achieving better sales and positive reviews. 

A reader can even be thrown off by the littlest of things such as a misplaced punctuation mark/comma, therefore an efficient editor should have hawk-like attention to details at the editing phase. 

4. Understanding the Publishing Process is a Bonus

A good number of freelance editors do center their work on manuscripts more, but there exists a group of professional editors that know how to go through the publishing process. That is a bonus, for sure. 

Around 57 million people in the U.S. are freelancers, which includes a large number of freelance editors, according to the Freelancers Union. The freelance workforce contributes over 1 trillion (USD) annually to the U.S. economy.

Experienced editors who know the process of self-publishing or traditional publishing and can guide you better in preparing your manuscript for submission.

5. Understanding Your Vision is Crucial

Like in any business, understanding is half the job. The editor has to appreciate your vision and know what style you want to follow in the work. Both of you also need to be on the same page.

Before you choose the editor for your book, make sure that he understands what you want to achieve and that he’s interested in keeping that in mind while editing, not just changing. 

6.Check References

If previous clients were satisfied with an editor, the chance that you’ll be happy as well is significantly higher. 

Contact the past clients and inquire about their opinions concerning the editors’ abilities, professionalism, and their style of work. 

7. Deadlines

Freelance editors should meet deadlines without cutting anything from the quality. Make sure they understand your expectations and that he has enough time for your project and publishing schedule.

That way, you will avoid some inconveniences and ensure you have your book ready for publishing in time.

8. Editors Working Space

Freelance editors usually work from home, but some of them have offices. It’s important for the end result to know how focused he is during work time and whether he has conditions for full concentration. 

It’s proven that working from the office is more efficient in a business that requires silence, focus, and catching details.

Conclusion

The right editor will respect your vision, style, and aim, but he will also provide you with constructive criticism. 

The editor has the responsibility to ensure that there are no discrepancies in your book and finally to ensure that your book is a hit to the intended readers.

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