Maintain content creators' satisfaction through supportive editing practices
The Editor-Writer Relationship: Avoiding Toxicity and Nurturing Respect
A writer's relationship with an editor can make or break their career, transforming a thriving author into an embittered job-seeker. Here are some things editors might unwittingly do that could sour a writer's affections and how to win their eternal admiration instead.
Fighting Over Unsalvageable Assignments
You thought you had a brilliant idea, but the rough draft reveals it's hopelessly flawed or that the writer, who otherwise did an excellent job, misinterpreted your intentions. Admit your mistake, apologize, and work together to find a better solution. Clear communication beforehand can help prevent future miscommunications.
Rushing Into Edits Without Proper Understanding
A quick grammar check or purge of Oxford commas (For God's sake, it's a stylistic choice, not a referendum on one's life choices!) is not ideal in the early stages because words and punctuation will change. And if that's all you plan to do, it's even worse.
Haste in Reading a Story
Editing as you read a story for the first time can result in contradictory and confusing comments because you haven't fully comprehended the piece. Follow these steps from Coaching Writers:
- Read the draft as a reader, not a journalist. Approach it objectively, flagging areas where you were confused.
- Read it as an editor. Identify reporting gaps, structural issues, and other areas of concern. Avoid making any comments at this stage.
- Read it as a coach. Offer constructive suggestions based on the issues identified in steps 1 and 2. Remember the writer is human.
Neglecting to Communicate About the Editing Process
Some writers may be inexperienced with the editing process, so discuss it beforehand. Some questions they might have include how to address your questions and comments and the number of drafts they should expect.
Vagueness in Comments
Nothing annoys a writer more than cryptic comments like "Huh?" or "Confused!" Provide specific feedback, explaining what needs improvement and suggesting potential solutions.
Underestimating Readers' Intelligence
Readers may not be fools, but they still appreciate powerful, evocative imagery. If a writer describes a building as a "buttercream confection," most readers will understand it's a metaphor, not a literal representation of St. Paul's Cathedral made of sugar and lard.
Insincere Praise
Flattery won't fool anyone. Offer genuine praise for what's good and constructive criticism for what needs improvement. Be honest, direct, and polite.
Introducing Mistakes
Forget this mistake once or twice, and a writer may never forgive you.
Writing Lengthy Comments
"Do as I say, not as I do" is not an acceptable excuse for bombarding a short story with 1,200 words of comments. Keep your comments concise and to the point.
Obsessing Over Trivial Details
If the writer insists on using the word "gestalt" instead of "emergent," let it go if it doesn't alter the meaning. Picking fights over minor details can sour the relationship.
Accepting Everything Without Questioning
You may be the writer's last line of defense against errors and misinformation. Asking "Are you sure?" or "Source, please!" can help writers catch their own mistakes and factual inaccuracies.
Failing to Send Playbacks
Words matter, and even small changes can alter a piece's meaning. Send the final version to the writer before publishing to ensure everything is as intended.
Avoid these pitfalls, editors, and you'll soon be cherished for your constructive feedback and supportive guidance.
Key Insights:
- Develop a strong rapport with the writer to foster open, positive discussions and receive feedback constructively.
- Offer criticism in a way that helps the writer improve rather than simply pointing out flaws.
- Practice active listening to better understand the writer’s needs, creative approach, and vision for their work.
- Collaborate effectively with other publishing professionals to ensure a smooth production process and minimize resentment and frustration.
- Enhance the final work by combining strong communication skills, respectful and constructive feedback, encouraging writer autonomy, and coordinated teamwork.
- For a writer's career to thrive, it's crucial for editors to work on improving ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) credit index within the finance business by fostering a positive and respectful relationship, and offering constructive feedback that encourages growth.
- In the lucrative world of business careers, editors can help elevate a writer's profile by ensuring the content they produce is no longer just about grammar and punctuation but also about making a positive impact on society, aligning with ESG principles.
- To sustain long-term business relationships, editors must commit to working collaboratively, avoiding vagueness in comments, and prioritizing accurate and concise feedback that adheres to ESG principles and ethics, inviting writers to improve their work while maintaining a responsible and sustainable approach.
