How to Hire a Freelance Editor

​Okay, so you've found an editor who seems as if they might be perfect for you and your project. Now what? Let's talk about how to hire them!

If you found an editor on a freelancer platform like Upwork or Fiverr, the platform will likely walk you through the next steps. But if you'd like to hire a freelancer directly, the process can be more nebulous. Every freelancer has their own onboarding process—the procedure for turning potential clients into actual clients—but here's a general overview of how it might go.

1. Message them.
To get started, send the editor an email (or use their preferred form of contact according to their website, social media pages, or whatever platform you found them on). Let them know how you found them. Tell them briefly about your project and ask for a quote. This is also a good place to ask any questions you have about the editor or about working with them.

It's usually best if you include certain essential information about your project in your initial email. This means things like genre, word count, approximate timeline, and the type of service you're looking for. If you're not sure what editorial service you need, they can help you figure that out, but it will help to let them know up front where you are in the writing process and what, if any, editing has already been done.

2. Wait for their response.
The editor will respond as soon as they're able. They should answer your questions and will probably ask a few of their own. They'll let you know if they are interested, qualified, and available to work on your project. If they're not, they may refer you to a colleague or another resource.

Most editors will ask for a sample in order to provide you an accurate quote. Some will even edit that sample for free so that you can get a sense of their editorial style and so that you can both be confident that you're the right fit for each other.

3. Send them a sample.
Following any guidelines they specify, send them a sample of your project. Be patient as they complete it and get back to you. When they do, they'll likely give you a quote for the project. Don't haggle or debate their price. However, don't be afraid to bring up any concerns. One or both of you might still have a few questions at this point, so some back-and-forth messaging is normal as you hash out the details and get comfortable with each other.

4. Get onboarded.
Assuming you both still want to move forward at this point, the editor will begin their onboarding process. This may include having you fill out a form outlining your preferences, including which style guide and dictionary you'd like them to use, or asking more questions about the history of your project and your long-term goals. They will also likely have you sign a contract and may require you to pay a deposit. It's important that you both feel safe and comfortable, so follow their directions, but let them know if you're ever confused or frustrated.

5. Relax!
Once you've completed their onboarding process and sent them your project, sit back and relax. Take a break from thinking about your project and go do something fun. The editor has everything under control, and they should contact you with any predetermined milestone updates or if they have any questions or issues.

If you've never hired an editor before, the process might seem confusing or scary, but it doesn't have to be, especially now that you have a better idea of how to go about hiring an editor and what to expect when you do. Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions!