When you’re looking for an editor, the interview process is key.
You spent time writing and revising—now you’re looking for an editor. But where are you looking? Are you ready to interview candidates? Editing is an investment, so finding the right editor for your project is important. Think of this process like a job interview. You need to find the best candidate for the job, but to do that, you need to provide some basic information and ask some questions. Before you contact any editors, take a few minutes to gather the information most editors will ask about. Then create a set list of questions to ask potential editors so you can compare their answers and see who is the best fit for you. Once you’ve finished your interview prep, you’ll be ready to look for candidates.
Information Editors Need
Most editors will ask for a brief description of your project, along with a few details. Be prepared to answer the following foundational questions:
- What service are you interested in? Developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, proofreading, layout and design, etc.?
- What is the word count of your document?
- What is your timeline?
- What is your editing budget?
- Does your project have any content that requires specific subject matter expertise? If so, in what area?
- What file format is your document using (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, PDF, etc.)?
Example Interview Questions
Remember—interviews are a two-way process. It’s important for both parties to ask questions. Think about what your priorities are for your project, then create your list of interview questions based on those priorities.
- Does the editor work on your genre or type of project?
- Does the editor have the specialist knowledge your project requires?
- Will the editor work on your project in your preferred file format?
- Is the editor available during your ideal time frame?
- What style guide do they prefer?
- Will the editor provide a sample edit? If so, are their comments and revisions helpful and in line with what you hoped for?
- Is the editor’s quote for your project within your budget, or is the editor willing to work with you on the price or a payment plan?
- What kind of training, background, or experience does the editor have?
- Are references available from previous clients?
- What does the editor include as part of the service you’re interested in?
- Is the editor’s personality and workflow process compatible with yours?
- What are their strengths and weaknesses?
- Do they have contacts or partners who can assist with other stages of the editing process that you may need help with?
Where to Look
Now that you have the basic information for your project handy and you have your list of interview questions prepared, you’re ready to look for editors. So, where do you look?
- Ask for referrals. If you’re part of a writing group, your fellow members may be able to recommend editors they’ve worked with in the past.
- Search the ACES Editors for Hire directory. ACES is the United States’ leading organization for editing professionals, educators, and students. Its directory allows you to filter candidates according to your search parameters, so you can connect with the most qualified editors for your project.
- Create a job post for the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA). Although you can filter candidates on the EFA member directory just as you can with the ACES directory, the EFA allows you to go one step further by emailing your project listing to its members. Interested candidates will contact you directly.
- Use a freelancer platform, like Reedsy, Upwork, or Fiverr. Depending on the platform you use, you can search freelancers’ profiles and invite them to interview for your project, or you can create a job posting and allow candidates to apply, then sort through the replies.
Takeaways
Above all, no matter where you look for an editor, remember to shop around. Gather quotes and information the same way you would if you were going to hire a contractor to work on your home. Be honest about what you’re looking for and expecting from your editor. Interviewing editors and comparing quotes for your project takes time, but the effort is worth it when you find the right person to work with. If you’re ready to talk to an editor, let me know! I’d love to learn about your project and see how we can work together to make your writing bulletproof.