Editing is essential. But sometimes it can feel lofty and inaccessible. Every author has different needs. These needs shouldn't be a barrier to getting editing. Being able to communicate these needs with an editor will make you feel more supported and the editing process be more valuable.
I need more time to review edits
As standard, your editor should agree with you a timeframe for when certain milestones are expected
to be met. If your editing package includes a second pass, this will mean a deadline for you to review the comments on your manuscript and make changes. This deadline will be informed by your editor's experience with other authors, as well as their availability.
Proposed deadlines are not non-negotiable. Some of us need more time for busy schedules, fluctuating energy levels, and trouble focusing. It is important to be upfront about these needs with your editor (though you don't have to share the reason) so that they can make adjustments to accommodate you.
I need updates
Some of us are happy to hand our manuscripts in to the safe hands of a professional editor and then not think about it for the weeks or months that they merrily tinker away with it. But some of us find that incredibly daunting. Asking what line of communication will be open during the process is a totally valid question. Most (or maybe all) editors don't want cloying authors emailing them daily asking them how their baby is. There has to be professional boundaries. But if an email update every week or two will put your mind at ease, find an editor who has the capacity to accommodate that.
Note: not all editors have the capacity to check in with authors regularly. This isn't a red flag. It is just their way of working. If their way of working isn't compatible with yours, that is fine. Not every editor will be right for you.
I might need a payment plan
Editing is expensive. Looking for an "affordable" editor is fruitless as affordability is subjective and we charge what we do for good reason. There are a couple of things to consider before you choose to invest in an editor, but I'm an editor not a financial adviser so perhaps I'm not the best placed to inform you on that. If, ultimately, you've decided that a payment plan would be feasible for you then look for an editor that offers them. Some do and some don't.
Chat with me about payment plans today!
I need clear and direct communication
Well, that's great! Editors are not in the business of making themselves seem outstandingly clever and elevated. We are here to communicate your needs and effectively give you feedback and suggestions. We won't achieve this if we're being indirect and subtle. You can expect your editor to be forthright and honest with you at every stage of the process. There shouldn't be any ulterior motive for you to puzzle over. We aren't trying to trick or confuse. Nonetheless, if you feel you especially need very clear communication, tell your editor! We want to be as helpful as possible, so if there is a better way we can communicate with you we'd love to know.
There are about as many accessibility needs as there are people. You don't need to settle for less when you're hiring any service provider, including your editor. Telling your editor what you need goes deeper than just what level of editing your manuscript needs. It is about how we can make the process as accessible and valuable to you as an individual. Yes, I work with books. But above all, I work with people. Tell me today what your manuscript needs and how I can accommodate you!