How to Find an Affordable Developmental Editor
Writers on a budget might wonder how to find an affordable developmental editor. Developmental editing is the most expensive editing stage. But there are ways to save money on this editorial service.
This post is meant to provide 11 ways authors can find an affordable developmental editor.
1. Level of work
There are different levels of developmental services, such as:
light
medium
heavy
Light edits will have less scope of work, making it a more affordable option.
Therefore, finding editors who provide light developmental editing services (or even manuscript evaluations) can help lower the editing cost.
You also might learn more about the complimentary support the editor offers.
For example, some developmental editors offer a limited complimentary email or call support after sending all the deliverables.
If you’re on a budget, this is something to consider. Some developmental editors will start charging you by the hour after the complimentary support (if they offer it) expires.
Asking the editor how long this complimentary support lasts can help you decide which editor is right for you.
2. Find discounts
Some editors will offer special discounts to celebrate a milestone or to capture attention when an author drops out of their schedule.
But make sure you do the math. Calculate those discounts that resonate with you and factor in payment methods.
However, don’t let discounts drive your decision to hire them. Use their website to gauge their professionalism, experience, expertise, and relationship with other authors.
3. Find new editors
Some new editors will initially set low prices to help gain professional experience.
They might settle on a flat rate payment method if their goal is to draw more engagement.
This might mean authors with a lengthy manuscript can save more money. But you still might have to qualify for the flat rate by not exceeding the maximum word count.
4. Keyword research: search engines and editorial directories
When searching for a developmental editor on a search engine, use the keyword phrase “affordable developmental editor" (or other similar phrases).
This might help you hasten the research process of finding an editor who fits your financial needs.
Adding your niche to your search can also help weed out unsuitable editors.
Another alternative is using editorial directories.
For example, the EFA’s directory has a keyword search box.
Type “affordable” in the search box to see if any editors match your specifications. You never know when you'll find a few editors who charge below EFA averages.
5. Editorial giveaways (or contests)
Social media announcements can be a great way to find editorial giveaways.
But the downside is these deals can contain stipulations.
For example, the qualification in their promotion might be limited to a specified word count or genre.
This is why learning all the giveaway details is critical before entering.
For example, determine some of the editor's feedback will become part of their marketing material.
If selected for the giveaway, you could save a considerable chunk of money for other editing stages.
6. Author referrals
Research and collect referrals from authors in your genre. It can help shave off research time, especially when these referrals come from trusted authors.
However, keep in mind that an author’s positive experience with an editor might not mean they’re suitable for your manuscript or your budget.
One author’s opinion on what’s considered affordable might not coincide with yours.
7. Bundling
Ask what other services will automatically be included with the developmental editing service.
For example, some editors will include line editing in their developmental editing rates. This can save you significant money when you plan to do line editing after you revise your manuscript.
Again, take your time hiring an editor. Determine if you mesh with the editor by how they communicate with you and how impressive their sample edit leaves you.
If you decide to add other editorial services, ask if they offer bundling rates.
Get multiple quotes to determine which editor meets all your needs and gives you a great bundling discount.
8. Fill their schedule
Timing is everything! If you time it just right, you might find an experienced editor who merely needs to fill their schedule and meet sales goals.
If you’re hesitant to hire an editor with an attractive deal, review their testimonials or contact a shared connection to help alleviate any concerns.
9. Passion for your project
Some manuscripts hit just the right spot. Like any reader, developmental editors have their favorite books!
Certain romantic tropes or intriguing concepts can fill an editor with passion and excitement. This might make them more lenient with working with you, enabling you to negotiate a fair price.
10. Multiple books
When you hire a developmental editor for a series, you provide your editor with financial stability. They might reward you by offering a discount.
However, this doesn’t mean every editor will offer this.
11. Word-of-mouth and networking
Mentioning you need a developmental editor to people in your life can be advantageous.
Don’t be afraid to talk about the genre you’re writing and your need to look for an editor with modest rates. You never know when an online or in-person connection might know a developmental editor who is available.
Conclusion
There are options out there that can help you save money when you’re finally ready to search for a developmental editor. Keep exploring and networking to find an editor willing to match your expectations.