What can I expect from a freelance editor?

PenWhen 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 their 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)
  • 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 they 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:

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