A book is a team project, so take time to talk to your editor. Lay down both the expectations and responsibilities of each.
How To Prepare Yourself?
Be prepared to work. When you edit, you must communicate with your editor and ask them what they expect. You should be ready to both make decisions and do work. Sometimes new authors are surprised at how much an editor expects of them.
What Should Your Editor Do?
Your editor is there to support you, not make all the decisions for you, and turn out a magically perfect book. You will rewrite, revise, and correct errors.
Your Editor = Your Friend
Listen to your editor as she understands your market and is giving you expert advice based on her knowledge. If you are not sure, ask why and learn from it. And as part of this, ask questions. Take advantage of the wealth of knowledge you have in front of you.
Know what is important to you and why. That way you can decide when to say no and offer reasons, being open to counterarguments. Pick your battles. Sometimes working with an editor can be hard on your ego. That’s normal. Who wants to hear that their baby isn’t perfect?
Respect The Editors Time And Boundaries
You might work on your book on weekends, but your editor might have other things going on Saturday morning. If you need an editor to work on your schedule, make that clear up front and find an editor who works like you do.
If you hire the editor, she works for you. If you are working with an editor through a publisher, she works for the publisher. If she works for you, then you are in charge and responsible for the final product. If she also works for the publisher, then you don’t always have final say. Understanding this will make your life easier.
Finally, if you work with an outstanding editor, thank her in the acknowledgements, recognize her as a partner in making your book the best it can be.
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– Keep writing
Melody Ann
Author Nation is your go-to resource for becoming a successful nonfiction author, from planning to promotion and everything in between. Download the resource for the stage you are in.
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