What’s An Editor For, Anyway?
You hired an editor, shipped off your beloved manuscript, and when you get it back, you are disappointed.
It’s not ready for the printing press, or to ship off to the top 5 publishing houses!
You have to do more work. Wait, what? Why did you hire an editor? Wasn’t she supposed to fix it? Make it all better? Transform your manuscript into the next Harry Potter or Game of Thrones series?
Why did you pay her? Ugh, she must have been no good.
You need a new editor, darn it!
This is more common that you might think. Many writers expect their editors to transform their manuscript into an error-free, bestseller without changing their authentic voice, of course. But let me try and shed some light on a rarely discussed topic:
Your editor is not your ghost writer.
You hired an editor to help prepare your manuscript for publishing. She will make changes, correct errors, and suggest alternate approaches to your plot and characters. She will help you alter, adapt, and refine your words and story so that they can suit a particular purpose and audience. Throughout the editing process, your editor will identify your bad habits, and help improve your writing style with specific suggestions and useful strategies. Your editor is there to help you improve your writing and your manuscript, not write it for you.
In contrast, a ghostwriter is hired to author the manuscript, and the book is credited to another person—in this case, you. The ghostwriter’s purpose is not to work to help you develop a stronger and more authentic writing style. It is only to deliver a product that you can put your name on. Many celebrities, athletes, and public figures select this option because it is convenient and less work for them. If your goal is to get your story out to the world with minimal work from your end, then hiring a ghostwriter is a great option. If you want to become a writer and tell your story, then you need an editor.
P.S. Why yes, I am an editor! I am so glad you asked! I have successfully and effectively helped writers find and refine their authentic voice within fiction, non-fiction, business and academic genres, and I can help you too! Email me a chapter of your work for a free review and let’s find out if we are perfect match. hello@housestyleediting.com
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