Finding Your Perfect Editor: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

As a writer, you might feel like a deer in the headlights when you think about finding an editor. You might be asking

• Who needs an editor?

• What questions should I ask an editor?

• When should I look for one?

• Where do I find an editor?

• Why do I need an editor at all?

• How do I know I’ve found the right one?

Who, me?

Yes, you. I may be biased, but I think that every single writer will benefit from working with an editor. The actual act of writing may be a solitary one, but it doesn’t have to be lonely or done in a vacuum. Writers need editors, and good editors will always be on your side.

Wait, what?

When you’re shopping around for an editor, know the right questions to ask.

• What kind of work do you edit?

• What phase of editing do you specialize in?

• What training do you have?

• What style guide do you prefer? Will you work within other style guides?

• Do you provide a style sheet?

• Will you perform a sample edit?

• What are your turnaround times?

• How often can I expect to hear from you?

• Do you bundle services (e.g., line edits, copy edits, and proofreading)?

You’ll also want to dig around and see what else you can find about your potential editor. Do they have testimonials? Do they offer editing packages, bespoke services, or both? The perfect editor for you will answer your questions, ease your mind, and make sure that you have all the information you need to make an educated decision.

When, now?

Yes, now. Editors can help you at any phase of the writing process. Editing is a partnership, and you can find an editor to guide and support you wherever you are in your writing (yes, even if you don’t have a manuscript at all). The sooner you can partner with an editor, the easier the writing process will be. Many editors (including myself!) offer one-off packages that don’t require long-term commitment. Even checking in with an editor every few months can provide you with clarity and support.

But where can I find one?

This might be the hardest part. You can start with something as simple as a Google or Facebook search. (I’ve had clients find me through simple search engines!) You can also go through directories like the Editorial Freelancers Association. I recently had someone find me through the Freelancing Females network. So don’t be afraid to dig around and reach out!

Why, though?

A good editor will make writing easier for you. Your perfect editor will support your vision, provide clarity, and cheerlead all along the way. A personal editor may not be financially possible for every writer, and that’s fine. But before you write us off (pun not intended though appreciated), take a minute and think about how working with an editor could make your life easier (because the perfect editor for you will definitely make your writing easier).

How will I know?

After all your research and discovery calls and thinking, how will you know you’ve found your perfect editor? Ask yourself how your body feels. Is your stomach in knots, or do you feel like a spool of angst started to unwind? Do you feel excited or wary? Do you have clarity or reservations? When you’ve found your perfect editor, you’ll know. You’ll feel empowered, validated, and motivated. Your writing time will feel rejuvenated, and you’ll be ready to hit the gas and go. Our bodies know, and yours will too. Trust me.

Your perfect editor is out there. I promise. And when you find them, you’ll wonder why you ever waited so long!