Building A Successful Writer – Editor Relationship
I recently decided to share my very rough draft with an editor I trust. Not an easy decision! I would not have taken this step if we didn’t have an existing relationship, and I know that she understands what I’m trying to communicate in its current messy first draft state.
The main reason I sent my writing on to a developmental editor is that I have been stalled out. I’d lost sight of my big Why for my interconnected essays, and I was starting to doubt the value in continuing with this project. In those moments of self doubt, I had started telling myself there are no readers out there who would want to read what I’m creating. Some heavy-duty inner critic banishing is also part of this process. I am learning, firsthand, that choosing the right editor can make all the difference to the completion of your writing projects. It’s always valuable for me to be on the other side of the editing process, since I’ve been supporting others with developmental edits for the past few years.
This is such an important topic that I’ve decided to share some of my learning with you in this post, and will expand on it in next month’s post as well.
When to Start an Editor Relationship
Consider the possibility of building a relationship with your first professional editor before you send your rough draft off for an edit.
Let’s start with what you know about yourself as a writer receiving feedback. What do you know about your preferences, what works and what doesn’t? Is it easier for you to receive comments and suggestions in a personal call, or in writing? Is the word processing program you’re using for your manuscript compatible with the editor’s preferred program? For example, I use Microsoft Word, many authors use Pages, so in order for us to communicate, documents need to be converted. These small details can be very important.
It’s important to remember that there are different editorial styles and perspectives; some of which may be a match for you and some which may not. Conducting interviews with prospective editors can be a great way to begin your manuscript revision process. I have discovered that finding the right “fit” between me and the person I’m working with makes a huge difference. In fact, it can make ALL the difference.
The Process
I conducted interviews with three professional editors, who revealed that many authors do not take the time to find out more about the person they want to hire for their structural edits. Based on the results of my interviews, I’m encouraging each writer out there to take the time to build this all-important relationship, to develop the best quality writing you can imagine.
A prospective editor will most often elicit important information from every potential client. This post highlights two important questions that an editor may ask, that also guide your writing at every stage. I’m also including some of the “red flag” responses an editor typically hears. These are things that may signal to the editor that the author hasn’t considered their bigger writing purpose or publishing goals, which will make their job more difficult if they choose to take on the project. I invite you to pay attention to what resonates for you.
Editor Question #1
Who is the intended audience for this book?
A red flag response is, “Anyone who wants to read it.” Some of my previous posts have explained the reasons why knowing your audience will make your writing more engaging. The editor you hire also needs to know your intended audience. The person you’re working with can review through the eyes of your intended audience member to create consistent tone, word choice, and story impact.
If you’re not sure about your intended audience, you may not be quite ready to share your manuscript with an editor. A great starting point is my YouTube video, “How to Define Your Audience”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdAvFqqEgmw&t=39s Some of my insight posts also cover the topic of Audience and Purpose.
Editor Question #2
What are your goals for this finished manuscript?
One red flag response is, “I want to publish it.” That’s a great start! Now start narrowing down what you want as the end result for your creative work. Consider the following possibilities:
- Is this a memoir limited to sharing with your immediate family, children and grandchildren?
- Do you envision your novel to be a New York Times bestseller?
- Are you intending to self-publish or contract with an agent?
- Is this a book that is designed to support your business?
- Is this the first book in a series?
Your response to each of these questions will determine the tone and the level of revision required in your writing. As your partner in the revision process, your editor also needs to know your goals, and may ultimately support you to greater clarity in your writing project.
I offer support to emerging writers by offering manuscript reviews and developmental edits. Please contact me at www.mariemaccagno.com/contact to schedule your free discovery session.
marie
If something in this newsletter inspired you, send me a note at marie@mariemaccagno.com.
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