You’ve written your book, huge congrats! That’s no small feat.
But before you hit publish, there’s one step that can seriously make or break your manuscript: editing. Yep, the unglamorous but oh-so-crucial polish that turns a rough draft into a page-turner. A recent survey revealed that 66% of self-published authors credit professional editing as a key reason for their book’s success. Still, way too many writers trip up when it comes to choosing the right editor. Let’s make sure you’re not one of them.
This blog walks you through the most common mistakes to avoid when you hire book editors, so you can confidently publish your work without regrets.
What NOT to Do When Hiring Book Editing Services
We understand, editing your own work can be tough. That’s why working with a professional editor matters, as they help you catch what you might miss. Also, the editors help you to strengthen your voice, and polish your story until it’s truly ready for the world. All in all, editing is a critical step that shapes the final reader experience as it turns a raw draft into a compelling, market-ready manuscript.
Below, we have jotted down eight common mistakes that you must avoid while hiring a book editor for your manuscript!
1. Avoid Hiring on the Basis of Price
When it comes to editing your book, never go for a cheap option. Some freelancers may offer you book editing services for super low rates, but that will cost you trade-offs like limited experience, slow communication, or important mistakes slipping through the cracks. Professional editors usually charge between $30 to $60 an hour, depending on the type of editing you need. You may save money initially, but it will cost you a lot in the long run.
2. Lack of Understanding About Editing
Not all editing is created equal. One of the most common blunders authors make is assuming that editing is just about fixing typos. In reality, there are several types:
- Developmental Editing: Focuses on structure, plot, and pacing.
- Copyediting: Fixes grammar, syntax, and consistency.
- Proofreading: Catches final typos and formatting errors.
Hiring the wrong type of editor can leave your book riddled with deeper issues. Keep in mind, developmental editing can improve story clarity and reader engagement by as much as 50%. Know what stage your manuscript is in and match the service to your needs.
3. Never Ignore Editor’s Experience with Your Genre
An editor who specializes in business books may not be the best fit for your fantasy novel. So always remember, genre experience matters. Editors with deep knowledge of your genre will always understand its plotting, reader expectations, and pacing. A romance novel often follows a specific storyline while the thriller genre demands a tight and suspenseful structure. A survey also published that 81% of authors who hired genre-experienced editors saw a positive impact on reader reviews. So, always ask for samples and client references in your genre before giving them the task of editing your book.
4. Skipping the Sample Edit Step
Would you buy a car without a test drive? The same logic applies to hiring an editor. A sample edit helps you evaluate their editing style, communication approach, and attention to detail. It also reveals if your writing voice will be preserved. Editors typically offer free or low-cost sample edits of 500–1000 words. This small investment can save you from a mismatched partnership. According to a publishing expert, authors who review sample edits are 40% more satisfied with the final results.
5. Failing to Check References or Reviews
Reputation speaks volumes. Another huge mistake is hiring an editor without reading client testimonials or contacting references. You want someone reliable, communicative, and timely. Platforms like Fiverr, and Upwork allow verified reviews. Look for consistent feedback on work ethic, responsiveness, and accuracy. If possible, ask past clients how the editor handled feedback or met deadlines. This step alone can help weed out unprofessional freelancers.
6. Not Clarifying Deadlines and Expectations
Misunderstandings happen when expectations aren’t clearly defined. Some authors assume the editor will return the manuscript in two weeks, only to find out the timeline was four. Always agree on a contract that outlines:
- Project scope (type of edit, word count, etc.)
- Delivery deadlines
- Revision rounds
- Communication methods
We always recommend establishing written agreements to ensure both parties are aligned. This avoids last-minute surprises or rushed edits.
7. Hiring Without a Clear Budget and Timeline
Book editing is a long-term investment. So, you need to have proper budgeting before stepping into it. As per the industry standards, a 70,000-word manuscript can cost you between $1,500–$4,000, depending on the type of editing service you need for your book. Plan your budget accordingly and prioritize which edits your book needs. Also, check for the revisions before your launch date. Rushing this step can lead to missed opportunities for improvement.
8.Relying on AI or Automated Tools
We strongly believe that AI Tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid are helpful, but hear us out, they don’t replace human insight at all! AI tools can never understand tone, character development, or emotional nuance. A study by the University of Cambridge showed that human editors caught 75% more context-related issues than AI tools. To produce a professional-grade manuscript, pair these tools with an experienced editor. It’s the combination of precision and perception that makes your book the best-selling one!
How to Hire Book Editors the Right Way
Once you have avoided the common mistakes, here’s how to confidently move forward with the book editor hiring process.
1. Define Your Editing Needs
Before searching for editors, clarify what your manuscript truly needs. Are you struggling with overall story structure or just grammar and style? Learn what your book needs, developmental editing, copyediting, or proofreading.
2. Do Your Research
Not all editors are created equal. Use trusted platforms like ACES, Editorial Freelancers Association, or personal referrals. Read bios, compare pricing, and look for editors with verified testimonials. So, a little digging upfront can save you major headaches later.
3. Ask for a Sample Edit
A sample edit helps you understand how an editor works with your writing. Most editors will offer a free or low-cost sample (usually 500–1000 words). Use this opportunity to assess their attention, editing style, and whether they respect your voice.
4. Check Genre Experience
An editor who specializes in nonfiction business books might not be the best fit for a fantasy novel. Every genre has specific conventions and reader expectations. Ask for past work in your genre and check if they understand the voice, structure, and tropes relevant to your niche.
Choosing to Hire Book Editors the right way helps transform your draft into a professionally polished manuscript, ready for readers, publishers, or self-publishing platforms. Make informed choices, and your book will thank you.
Parting Shot!
Your book deserves the best shot at success, and that starts with the right editor. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, stress, and money in the long run. Remember, book editing services are all about taking your story to professional standards. With the right support from your book editor, your manuscript can become the masterpiece you always imagined.
Ready to polish your manuscript? Contact Ghostwriting Assistance today and work with skilled book editors who bring your story to life!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to know what type of editing my book needs?
Start with a professional manuscript evaluation and check if your story structure needs work. If needed, go for developmental editing first. For final step, choose copyediting or proofreading.
2. What is the usual budget for book editing services?
Book editing services costs vary by word count and service type. As per the common practice in industry, a 70,000-word manuscript is usually charged $1,500–$4,000, depending on depth and editor experience.
3. Is it okay to use Grammarly or AI tools instead of hiring an editor?
AI tools are great for basic grammar checks but understand the fact that they lack the nuance needed for story flow, character development, and tone. When you hire book editors, they ensure professional quality which AI tools cannot provide you with. So, it is always better to go with human editors.
4. Is it necessary to sign a contract with a freelance editor?
Yes. A written agreement between the editor and book writer will protect both parties by outlining the scope, deadlines, payment terms, and revision expectations. This will help to avoid miscommunication between the parties.
5. What does book editing mean?
Book editing is the process of improving a manuscript. It includes the refining of the entire script, improving its clarity, coherence, and overall quality while maintaining author’s voice.
