How to Find the Right Editor for Your Book

Hey there, fellow authors! It’s Renee Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing. So, you’ve written your book, and now it’s time to take it to the next level. But how do you find a book editor who will truly bring your work to life? If you’re asking yourself this question, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m diving into choosing a book editor, what to look for, and how to make sure you hire the right person to polish your manuscript.

Why Choosing the Right Editor Matters

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why finding the right editor is so important. A great editor doesn’t just fix typos; they help make your story clearer, your prose more engaging, and your book more professional. Whether you’re self-publishing or going the traditional route, a skilled editor can make all the difference in turning a good book into a great one.

Book Editing Tips: What to Look for in an Editor

1. Understand the Types of Editing

Not all editors do the same job, so it’s important to know what you need. Here are the main types of editing you’ll encounter:

• Developmental Editing: This is a big-picture edit. The editor focuses on story structure, character development, pacing, and other major aspects of your book. If your book needs major work, this is the edit you’re looking for.

• Copy Editing: This focuses on grammar, syntax, consistency, and sentence structure. A copy editor will make sure your writing is smooth and error-free without changing your voice or message.

• Proofreading: This is the final polish. A proofreader catches typos, punctuation errors, and formatting inconsistencies. You’ll want this as a last step before publishing.

Knowing which type of editing you need helps narrow down your search for the right editor.

2. Look for Experience in Your Genre

When you hire an editor, one of the most important things to consider is their experience with your book’s genre. Editing a romance novel is different from editing a business book, so you want someone who understands the nuances of your particular genre. An editor who’s familiar with your genre will know the expectations and conventions and can guide your book in the right direction.

3. Review Their Portfolio and References

Just like when you’re hiring anyone for a job, you want to check their credentials. Ask for samples of previous work, or better yet, request references from authors they’ve worked with. Reading through some of their edited projects will give you a good sense of their style and quality. If they have testimonials from authors who’ve had positive experiences, even better!

4. Consider Their Editing Style

Every editor has their own approach. Some may be more hands-on, suggesting major revisions, while others may focus on making minor adjustments. Be sure to ask the editor about their editing style and whether it aligns with your expectations. For example, do you want a heavy rewrite, or are you looking for someone who will keep your voice intact and only clean up the rough spots?

5. Communication is Key

A good editor isn’t just someone who makes your writing better—they’re also someone who listens to your goals and ideas. How to hire an editor comes down to communication. You need an editor who’s responsive, open to feedback, and who truly understands what you’re trying to achieve. The best editor-author relationships are built on mutual trust and clear communication.

6. Check Their Availability and Turnaround Time

Editing takes time, and it’s important to know when you can expect your work to be completed. Some editors have long waiting lists, while others may be able to take your manuscript on relatively quickly. Make sure to ask about their turnaround time and whether they can meet your deadline. This is especially important if you’re working toward a specific release date.

How to Hire an Editor: The Step-by-Step Process

1. Do Your Research
   Start by looking for editors with experience in your genre. Use websites like Fiverr, Reedsy, or even social media groups for writers to find reputable editors.

2. Reach Out and Ask Questions
   When you find an editor you’re interested in, reach out! Ask about their editing process, experience, and rates. Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample edit if you’re unsure about their style.

3. Review the Contract
   Once you’ve found the right editor, make sure to review the contract carefully. Understand the payment terms, deadlines, and what’s included in the editing package.

4. Start the Editing Process
   Once everything is set, it’s time to work with your editor! Be prepared to provide feedback and collaborate throughout the process.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the right editor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your book-writing journey. A great editor will help refine your work and get it ready for the world to see. Remember, the key to finding a book editor is understanding your needs, doing thorough research, and choosing someone who aligns with your goals and vision for your book.

At Smart Publishing, we’ve worked with countless authors to help them find the perfect editor for their manuscripts. If you’re ready to take your book to the next level, let us help you find the right fit!

Our high-touch service means we can’t work with everyone. Share your book idea with us, and we'll schedule a time to see if you're a good fit for our author family.