Book publishers are the people you take your manuscripts to when you want them published. As such, they are just as important as publishers. They are charged with the responsibility of polishing manuscripts and preparing them for publication. If you do a search on the Internet, you will come across publishers advertising their services. While some are good at what they do, others just want to rip you off. It is important that you take your time when selecting a publisher. This is the only way to ensure your book is published on time. The following are some of the qualities of a good editor.
Good book editors are professionals. That is, they email or call you about edits and releases to your story on time. They don’t wait until you call to tell you about the progress they’ve made on your manuscript. Also, they treat writers/authors as their peers or equals and not as people below them. As well as being professional, great editors are also very well organized and are often in high demand. They handle books by many different authors. Still, they can effectively track each writer’s work and turn it in on time as needed.
Good book publishers are also wise writers. You’ve probably heard writers complain about some editors. Quack editors are only in the profession for the money. They don’t know anything about writing. An exceptional editor is a person who, at some point, was a writer. As such, he understands what makes a good piece of writing. By managing your work, you do it even better. Also, have realistic expectations. He/she understands that for a writer to present good materials for their writing, it takes a long time. Thus, they give work with reasonable deadlines.
Another quality of an excellent publisher is reliability. He never goes back on his promises; delivers when and how it says it will. Also, he doesn’t change his mind in the middle, asking you to change the plot or asking for more time and payment. Another trait is self-confidence. There is never a time when good editors feel they must make changes to their already good work, because they trust their skills.
You won’t be able to tell the good book publishers from the bad just by looking at them. Before you hire an editor, it’s important to do a thorough background check. If possible, you should talk to some of your previous clients. They are best placed to tell you if you are making a good decision in seeking the services of particular publishers. You should also ask about their credentials as well as the level of experience. You are safer in the hands of a person who has some editing training. Also, you should have been in the book publishing business for several years.