FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Rates for reading (assuming a 250-word page): Proof-read: $4/page Read with developmental feedback (includes proof-reading): $6/page ***** For potential long-term clients: Quick read to provide a personalized quote and initial impressions: $1/page After the initial reading, I will provide a personalized quote for additional editing. These rates are similar to initial per-page rates, but will vary slightly according to your needs and writing quality.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I didn't call myself a writer or editor for a long time; instead I was a student and tutor. Then five years ago, I attended the "Festival of Faith and Writing" in Grand Rapids, Michigan, took a few classes, and began blogging--first on my own blog and later on a collaborative project that included guest authors. It was in these editing conversations with our guests that I developed a desire to help other writers. To my surprise, I began to value feedback like "My piece is better because of your feedback" more than the stats and views of my own posts.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
There are different types of editing. Find out what kind you can expect. For example, some editors simply provide proofreading services, correcting spelling and grammatical errors. This involves a 'quick read' for the editor and will typically be the cheapest option. An editor can also tighten your language, looking at sentence, paragraph, and overall structure. Some editors may make changes for you, and some may suggest areas for you to consider. This requires more attention from your editor, and thus costs you more. Finally, there is also a type of editing called developmental or content editing. This is more involved, and includes concerns such as pacing and balance (i.e. descriptions vs. reflections, story vs. technical content), tone and style, and the strength of your argument or story. This is generally a collaborative process, and involves investment from both parties. The bottom line about the bottom line: at every stage an editor's investment of time and expertise will mirror your costs. If you expect the editor to re-write weak areas, expect to pay for this work. If you continue to do the 'heavy lifting' but benefit from the editor's insights and questions, you can reduce your financial investment. Be clear about your editing expectations from the beginning, and you can save yourself and your editor confusion down the road.