When you finish your manuscript, it’s time to start editing. You may do several rounds of edits yourself, but it’s important to also get a professional editor to look over your work. Editors find mistakes, but they can also make suggestions on other ways to improve your work before it’s ready for publishing. However, this process can be challenging if you let your emotions get in the way. Avoiding emotional reactions to editing suggestions can help you make good choices for your manuscript, so you can offer your best work to your readers.
Remember, it’s not personal
Having someone critique your life’s work can feel like a personal attack, but to your editor, it’s just business. Good editors must be honest and thorough when suggesting changes, as their reputation and livelihood are also on the line. You want your work to be the best possible version, and the editing process is designed to help you create that. Try to stay objective when reviewing suggestions and deciding how best to adapt your work so it’s well-received by your readers.
Work with your editor instead of against them
Treat your relationship with your editor as a collaborative one, not adversarial. This doesn’t mean you have to be friends with your editor, but you should carefully consider their ideas when deciding how to make positive changes to your manuscript. Ask questions if you’re unsure of the reasons certain changes are suggested, and make your own suggestions if you don’t agree with your editor’s vision. Compromise is often the key to creating a finished manuscript that authors and publishers are happy with.
There are many emotions involved in having someone critique work that you put much time and creativity into. Writing can be emotional, and authors may suffer hurt feelings if they don’t approach the editing process from an objective standpoint. Remember that your editor wants to help you provide the best version of your work. Collaborate with your editor so you can feel confident that your readers get the best you have to offer.
