Summary

Roz Warren, a seasoned writer and editor, emphasizes that all writers, regardless of skill level, can benefit from working with a good editor, and that the key qualification for an editor is the writer's willingness to pay for their services.

Abstract

Roz Warren, who has extensive experience both as a writer and an editor, asserts that every writer, from novices to seasoned professionals, can improve their work through collaboration with a skilled editor. She highlights that the primary concern for editors is not the quality of writing but the reliability of payment from their clients. Warren has worked with a diverse range of writers and believes that even those who consider their writing to be subpar are ideal candidates for editing, as they have the most to gain. She stresses that a good editor is not judgmental but rather eager to assist writers in enhancing their craft, provided they are open to feedback and can pay for the service. Warren also notes that she has turned down potential clients based on their attitude and unwillingness to accept editorial advice, rather than their writing ability.

Opinions

Every writer, regardless of experience, can benefit from a good editor.
Writers who are just starting out or who doubt their skills are particularly encouraged to seek editorial guidance.
A good editor enjoys working with less experienced writers to prevent the development of bad writing habits.
The most important factor for an editor is not the writer's talent but their ability and willingness to pay for editing services.
Editors are not there to judge but to help writers improve, even if it means working with writing that initially "sucks."
Warren has declined to work with clients who are resistant to editorial suggestions and insist on the perfection of their work.
She values a collaborative relationship where the writer is receptive to feedback and willing to learn and grow.

Think You Aren’t a Good Enough Writer to Work With an Editor?

Think Again

I am a writer, but I’m also an editor.

For decades, I’ve worked with writers to improve and publish their prose. (I’ve also edited over a dozen anthologies, for a number of different publishers.)

I’ve worked with beginning writers and accomplished writers, and every kind of writer in between, on projects ranging from 500-word humor pieces to 500 page novels.

Here’s what I’ve learned — every writer can use a good editor. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, your work will always get better if you work with a good editor.

Writers sometimes sound me out about taking them on as a client, and then back off, with comments like, “I’m just starting out.” I’m not ready.” Or “I’m not good enough yet.”

Some even say they’re afraid that I’ll judge them because their writing sucks.

“Are you kidding me?” I’ll tell them. “Writers who suck are the ones who need editors the most. Plenty of my clients bring me writing that sucks! And I’m happy to work with them. As long as you’re willing to listen to feedback — we can make that work suck less. Or even turn it into work that doesn’t suck at all!”

A good editor isn’t there to judge you. A good editor loves working with writers who are just starting out. Why? By getting in there early we can stop you before you pick up too many bad habits.

Thinking about working with an editor? It doesn’t matter how good or bad a writer you are. The only thing that really matters to us is this — are you going to pay us when we invoice you?

I recently asked a group of fellow editors this question: “Given the choice, would you rather work with a brilliant writer who can’t afford to work with you, or a mediocre writer who always pays their bills on time?

Not one of them chose the brilliant writer.

A typical response?

“I can edit writers who are at any level of expertise. But I need money. That’s why I do this.”

Over the years, I’ve turned away would-be clients for a variety of reasons. It usually comes down to attitude. For instance? A writer who pays me $60/hour for my expertise and advice, and then spends most of that hour pushing back hard against every suggestion I make and insisting that their writing is perfect the way it is, will end up with my suggesting that they find another editor.

But I have never once refused to work with a writer because their writing wasn’t good enough. Yes, a brilliant writer who can easily afford my fee is the gold standard. And, happily, I do have clients like that.

But as long as you pay your bills on time? I’m good.

And if you don’t pay your bills? I don’t care if you’re Jane Austen, William Shakespeare and Toni Morrison combined.

You’ll need to find yourself another editor.

Writing Coach and editor-for-hire Roz Warren, who writes for everyone from the Funny Times to the New York Times, can help you improve and publish your work. Drop her a line at [email protected]. (That’s Ros with an “s,” not a “z.”)

Need a Good Editor? Get in Touch

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