In the previous post, we've discussed the importance of recognizing a good editor, and why finding a good editor is essential for your book's success. In this post, we continue with more advice.
Traits of a Good Editor
Along with grammar and style expertise, a top-notch editor has excellent verbal as well as written communication skills. He or she is able to go through each manuscript change with a writer and explain clearly why the edits will make the writing stronger. Although this kind of editor can be bluntly honest, he or she will always treat each writer’s work with due respect.
A good editor also takes the time to read a drafted manuscript closely and all the way through to get a complete idea of the author’s point of view. This step is essential for preserving and enhancing the writer’s voice, style and tone after the whole editing process is finished. High caliber editors are also able to keep fresh perspectives and stay open to new ideas for each new manuscript they are hired to proof.
Why Finding a Good Editor is Vital for Any Author
The majority of beginning writers have a difficult time stepping back from their own work to edit and proofread it themselves with enough of a critical eye. A good editor is able to fill this role by identifying weaknesses in the writing and directing an author in correcting them. This editor needs to be able to recognize issues such as poor punctuation, lack of structure and overuse of certain words or phrases.
Authors who do their homework about a prospective editor can determine a good fit by reading past testimonials about that editor’s work. They can also get clues from their correspondence with a given editor about professionalism and attention to detail.