Picture this: you’ve poured your heart and soul into crafting a manuscript, nurturing it like your own child. Now, it’s time to entrust it to an editor. But here’s the hard truth: settling for cheap editing services could leave your ‘literary baby’ in the hands of an overburdened caretaker.
You may be wondering why you should pay a higher fee for an editor when there are cheaper options available. It’s a valid concern. While budget-friendly editing services may seem tempting, it’s vital to consider the quality and attention your manuscript deserves. Opting for a low-cost editor often means they must juggle multiple projects just to make ends meet. Can you imagine the strain of dividing their time and focus among numerous manuscripts? However, by investing in a skilled editor who charges a fair wage, you ensure that your work receives the undivided attention it deserves, allowing them to help you create the best story you can write.
Good editing requires time, attention to detail, and skill. Professional editors are trained to spot common mistakes that an average person with average (or even above average) grammar skills would likely miss. While you might find someone willing to edit your manuscript for a fraction of my fee, you would likely reap what you sow. After all, you’ve heard the adage “you get what you pay for,” right? Well, that principle holds true for editing services too.
Yes, I could charge significantly less, but in doing so, I would provide significantly less, as well. Why? If I offered such cheap editing services, I would have to churn out as many manuscripts as possible in a month just to earn a livable wage. The result? Fatigue, stress, and most importantly, reduced accuracy. Consider this: if an editor charged $200 for a 100k word manuscript, they would need to edit approximately 13 full-length manuscripts a month just to average $15 an hour. That’s a little over $30k in annual revenue, by the way. And that doesn’t even account for the roughly 30% in self-employment taxes they must pay. In addition to taxes, they must also cover other business operating expenses.
Now, let’s revisit those numbers. Thirteen manuscripts a month! It’s an overwhelming workload. How much attention could an inexpensive editor like that truly give to your literal brainchild? If you’re like me, you love your books and characters as if they were your own children. Would you want to leave your child in the care of someone with too many other children to watch over? Or would you prefer a caretaker who can provide undivided attention to your baby?
As you embark on the journey of refining your manuscript, remember that quality editing is an investment in your literary success. Choose an editor who values your work as much as you do. Look for someone who can dedicate the time, attention, and the expertise necessary to unleash its full potential. So, whether you’re a budding author or an experienced writer, never settle for less. Seek out a professional editor who understands the value of their craft. They can assist you in creating a masterpiece that truly shines. Your words deserve nothing less.
