What can I expect from a freelance editor?

When you hire a professional freelance editor, you can expect:

• Professionalism (but not perfection—remember, nobody’s perfect)
• Confidentiality (there’s no need to copyright your work first)
• Honesty (letting you know what, in his/her opinion, the manuscript needs)
• Encouragement (telling you what’s good, not just what’s wrong)
• Communication (via e-mail, phone, or personal visit, depending on what works best for both of you—but remember, communication works both ways; don’t expect your editor to read your mind.)
• Availability (within reason—everybody gets busy; don’t expect your editor to have nothing else to do but work on your manuscript and respond to your every e-mail within an hour or two)
• Promptness (whatever turnaround time the two of you agreed on—but realize that everyone has unexpected delays)
• Follow-through (the editor does what he/she promised, barring unforeseen circumstances)

Will there be a written contract/agreement?

It’s not necessary, but can be helpful to identify the following:

• Services requested/agreed to
• Cost
• Deadline/turnaround time

If the editor of your choice doesn’t offer one, feel free to request one if you wish.

If you’re ready to hire a freelance editor, click here.