Editor Red Flags
I wanted to bring something important to your attention. For whatever reason, someone is going around the #writingcommunity to spread lies about a lot of editors and allegedly trying to scam writers. I am one of the many editors being targeted for libel. Since more and more people seem to be taking advantage of those within the community, I wanted to provide some tools to help writers avoid being scammed.
Evaluate the editor’s website. While mistakes happen and we’re all human, make sure there aren’t several misspellings and errors across their website.
Assess how the editor communicates over email. Not only should proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization be used in an email, but they should be professional. Email is where they should be most professional because this is where most correspondence is likely to occur.
No client testimonials? Bye-bye. If they are a new editor, of course this is different. If they have testimonials, reach out to a couple of the clients the editor has worked with to directly get their personal take on the editor.
If the editor has no published work/portfolio, this could be cause for concern. If they are new to the industry, they might not have a portfolio or a significant list. You can always ask for a portfolio if it’s not listed on their website. Publishing can take quite a bit of time, whether self or traditional, so this could be a reason why their portfolio is lacking.
If an editor doesn’t have an editing contract to outline everything involved with payment, refunds, any extra fees, and etc., run. Everything should be outlined to protect you and the editor as well. You need to know what you’re getting yourself into.
Make sure they offer the standard sample sizes (500-1,500 words). If they DON’T offer a sample edit, consider it a red flag. Samples are meant to give an idea of how the editor will work with your manuscript.
If they do not take your writing style and voice into account, red flag!
If they rewrite your whole book, red flag!
Check over their social medias.
It’s okay for an editor to suggest a specific service or advise an additional service, but watch how they phrase when these things are offered. Make sure they are coming to you with your best interest in mind rather than theirs.
Be careful out there! There will always be scammers, you just have to know how to avoid them as best you can!
Xo,
Ashley
