Need-to-Know Info For Hiring a Nonfiction Book Editor

You’ve written a nonfiction book, and you’d like an editor to peruse it with an objective eye and polish it to a shine before you submit it to a publisher or self-publish. Following are questions you need to ask and answers you need to know about editors and the editing process.

First, the questions:

• What type of editing do most nonfiction writers want and need?
• What’s involved in content and copy editing?
• How does an editor determine a book’s objectives?
• How do you find the editor that’s the right fit for your book?
• What pricing should you expect from an editor?
• What result should you expect from an editor?

And now the answers.

What type of editing do most nonfiction writers want and need?

Most nonfiction writers approach an editor after the manuscript has been conceptualized and the first draft completed. At this point, they need a content editor and a copy editor. Luckily, the same person usually does both content and copy editing. But if your book idea is still in the “germination” stage and you’d like big-picture advice, a developmental editor, or “book doctor,” would be the better choice.

What’s involved in the mix of content and copy editing?

Content editing requires a macro view of the manuscript to answer these questions:

• Does the structure, theme, and style support the stated objectives for the book?
• If not, how could these be changed to better align with the book’s objectives?
• What are strengths and weaknesses of the writing? What is missing?
• What additions would make it better, stronger, more creative?

A content editor may do a manuscript review and return it to the writer to make changes because it’s not ready for copyediting. If the writing doesn’t meeting the writer’s objectives for the book or has structural problems, it’s best to know and adjust the manuscript up front, saving time and money.

A copy editor digs into the nitty gritty of making sentences clear and easy to understand. Like pulling weeds in a garden, the editor searches for every last typo, extraneous expression, and grammar gremlin until the language landscape is uncluttered by word weeds and other distractions. This editor may also add color and design in wording and expression to attract readers, while maintaining the author’s intention and voice.

How does an editor determine a book’s objectives?

A professional editor asks questions that reveal the heart of your plans, goals, and expectations, gathering information, such as:

• What is the book’s target audience, category, and working title?
• What successful books could be used as models for yours?
• Do you expect or intend for your book to be a best-seller? Business door opener? Product profit center for your business? Professional reputation builder? Job networking tool?

Answer these questions for yourself before you contact an editor. What do you want your book to do for others? What do you want it to do for you?

How do you find the editor that’s the right fit for your book?

Follow this four-step process:

1. Ask for referrals from those you know and trust in circles where authors hang out and check out authors’ websites and blogs.

2. Research names of editors acknowledged or credited in model books already published.

3. Do an Internet search for “nonfiction editor” and peruse editors’ websites, particularly their portfolios. Contact authors listed in the same genre as your book’s and ask about their experiences working with particular editors.

4. Request a sample edit from each of the editors you’re considering. Do you like the level and style of editing? Has the editor preserved your voice? Do the comments help? Does the writing “sing” more beautifully?

What pricing should you expect from an editor?

Surveys show the range for an experienced professional editor varies from $50 to $150 an hour. Less experienced editors may charge less but don’t tend to dig deep enough into the soul of the manuscript. Some work more quickly and thoroughly than others—but may do more than you want! Sample edits help you compare results and pricing side by side.

What result should you expect from an editor?

You want to be able to say, “This editing makes me look better than I ever thought I could! My ideas come across clearly and the style fits my personality.” That result gives you confidence to proudly promote your book and make your authorship dreams come true.