As writers, it’s tough to maintain objectivity about our work, and I firmly believe that getting feedback, though sometimes hard to accept, is the key to growing and improving.
In this video, I share my personal ‘three-day rule’ for processing feedback and emphasize the need to distance oneself from your work during this process. Remember, criticism is never personal; it’s all about the work.
I also provide tips on finding experienced editors and managing expectations during the editing process.
Hello, Jane Cleland here.
The question is whether I should use a beta reader for my manuscript review before I start submitting it and, if so, how to find one. I think it’s a smart idea, especially for new writers. It’s very hard to be objective about our own work.
I do have some comments, though, before I make a suggestion on how to find a professional freelance editor. First of all, be sure you really want feedback. In my experience, many writers say they want feedback, but really what they want is affirmation. Affirmation feels great, but it won’t help you rise to the next level.
The second thing is to put your thick skin on and make sure that you’re ready for the feedback, but you’re also going to take it with an open spirit. Just because you get feedback doesn’t mean you have to embrace it; it doesn’t mean you have to do everything. But when you are hearing or reading the feedback, take your time. Let it germinate—put it on your mental back burner. Don’t automatically dismiss it. Don’t take it personally. It’s about the work, not about you—not your soul. That’s an important distinction.
I have my three-day rule with editorial notes. The first time I get them, I read them, think about them, and then go away—I don’t pay any attention to them after that initial read-through. I come back the next day and read them again. I see what I automatically say: “Well, that makes sense.” There’s going to be something where I say: “I don’t think that’s right!” On the third day, I read them again and say: “Okay, this all makes sense,” and then I get to work.
That’s Jane’s three-day rule for dealing with editorial letters. In other words, it’s hard to hear the feedback, but it’s good because it helps you get better.
There’s a reputable organization called the Editorial Freelance Association (efa.org), and I would look for someone who has experience at a top-level publisher in your genre. Then talk to them. Make sure you know what kind of editing you’re looking for—story development? Character motivation aligning with plot? Copy editing? Proofreading? There’s someone there that will do any or all of that, but you need to be clear in your expectations and then talk to them. Make sure you feel comfortable.
It’s a process like everything else in writing, and I’m very optimistic because the fact that you’re asking says you want to get better—and that’s part of the process too.
I know you can do it. I know you will do it. Best of luck with that!
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