Editors see the same mistakes, day after day, week after week. Understandably, they reach a point where they have little patience with sloppy, incorrectly presented work. Here are some things to avoid if desiring to build a good relationship with an editor.
Word Count
Word counts are there for a reason. The editor has a certain amount of space on each page and has to juggle written work with photos and advertisments. If the required word count is 800 words, keep to it. Don’t write 850 words as the editor will end up hacking chunks out of it. This is a sure way to lose favor with them and if it happens on a regular basis, they will pass over any future submissions.
Deadlines
Editors appreciate it when a writer consistently produces quality work that arrives on their desk or in their email a few hours before the cut off point. It relieves stress as they don’t have to wonder if the article will come through or if they will have to scramble around looking for something else. Set a self-imposed deadline that is several hours before the publication’s deadline and try and keep to it.
Accuracy
Check facts and make sure sources are reliable. A rash of letters about inaccuracies will be a sure way to end future writing prospects with an editor. If appropriate, include phone numbers or addresses for the people concerned so the publication can verify facts if needed.
Making Changes
An editor may return a piece of week with suggestions for changes. If this is the case, make only the changes requested. Don’t rewrite it completely so that it needs another edit once done.
Spelling
Be diligent about spelling and don’t rely on the computer’s spell check. Editors get annoyed when words are spelt incorrectly or the wrong word is used. Check for things like there/their, desert/dessert, loose/lose, and here/hear. Words that are commonly misspelled include focused and buses. Both have one “s” not two. It’s surprisingly easy to use the wrong word by mistake, or even type one wrong letter that changes the meaning completely. Check each piece of work thoroughly – after leaving it for several hours or a day if possible.
Avoid Monster Sentences
A common weakness is writing long rambling sentences that could easily be divided into two shorter ones. Editors want work that is easy to understand after one reading. Things that need to be read several times to be understood will be rejected.
Don’t be Arrogant
Editors prefer to work with writers who are flexible and teachable. If they want a comma, put a comma. If they cut a paragraph that took hours to perfect, accept it. In the long run, a submissive attitude will be more helpful than egotistical demands.
Learning the craft of writing is a life-long process and the best teachers are generally those who are further along the path. It is a privilege to work consistently with editors and these relationships should be cultivated and cherished. The benefits will far outweigh the discomfort.
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