How to Negotiate Rates with a Freelance Editor When You're On a Tight Budget

I've been freelance editing for several years now, first as a side hustle and most recently as my main source of income. It wasn't the path I thought I'd be on, but it's where I am and I'm adjusting to its joys and pitfalls. I love the freelance/contractor editor life for its balance, its opportunities, and its unique placement in the self-publishing book revolution.

But lately there's been a lot of talk on Threads about whether or not an independent (indie)/self-publishing author needs an editor. After all, not everyone can afford a top-quality editor's rates. I'm here to break down the pros and cons of working with an industry professional when you're on a tight budget and how to negotiate fairly in discussions with them. I won't lecture you or say everyone self-publishing must invest in services like the ones I offer, but I will help you navigate the rocky road of editor-author relations if it's a goal you'd like to set. Keep in mind, though, that freelance doesn't mean free.

1. State your goals clearly and be up front about your budget.

   Many editors, like myself, love hearing from authors. The introductory moment sends a ping of joy through our psyches at the notion that you deemed them worthy enough of your attention. The first point of contact usually involves an email, contact form, or direct message on a social media platform. Regardless of the method, make sure you give enough of an introduction to pique the professional's interest and be upfront about your financial situation if that is a concern. Editors appreciate transparency and will help you find solutions to financial problems. However, if you wait too long to discuss this point, it could lead to more uncomfortable discussions later on. Honesty is the best policy here, and being as truthful as possible early on will set you up for success.

2. Ask for payment plans.

   Hiring an editor is hiring a businessperson, and like brick-and-mortar businesses, freelance editors will do what they can to ease your strain if you really want to invest in their services.

   
   

   It's a good idea to inquire about payment plans or monthly installments. Many times, editors will agree to break down the fees into smaller increments so that you can invest without handing over heaps of money at one time. (In all honesty, this is the method I prefer, and I help my clients afford my services through all sorts of payment plans.)

   
   

   Make sure the breakdown and payment schedule is included in your contract, to help you keep track as well as to make your payments on time or rearrange if something comes up and you have to skip or reschedule a payment. There is nothing more taxing on a freelance editor who is making their living by helping authors than late or missed payments.

   
   

3. Inquire about an editor's rates.

   If you don't know, you can't understand, so sometimes it's a good idea to ask the professional you're contact about their rates directly. Some questions to ask in a follow-up email are:

   
   

   - How do you determine your pay rates?

   - Do you offer discounts for repeat clients?

   - How much experience do you have in editing? How does that factor into your rates?

   
   

4. Get a free sample edit if possible (or offer to pay a small fee for one).

   Sample edits are a great way to see your editor in action before making the leap to working with them. The editor will take a section of your novel and mark it up according to the service you're considering investing in. Ask if the editor you're contacting offers free sample edits or offer to pay them for their time to complete one. If someone doesn't do sample edits, ask why.

   
   

   My (free) sample edits with clients don't go beyond a few pages, but it gives clients enough of an idea about my approach to let them decide if they want to hire me. I think it's important to "prove my worth" to clients before they agree to work with me.

   
   

5. Finally, book a video or phone call with your editor.

   Successful businesses rely on partnerships, and freelance editing is no exception. One way to truly discuss your wants, expectations, and budget with your editor is to have a "face-to-face" meeting with them (or as close to one as you can get). Also, it's completely OK to ask for a meet-and-greet if your editor doesn't offer one.

   
   

   During my discovery calls with clients, we talk about my experience, the client's needs, and ways of working together, including budget, payment options, and contracts. I love this method of communication because it puts a human face (or at least human expressions and inflections) into the conversation, making the connection between author and editor all the more genuine.

It's not easy to start a new relationship, but an author-editor partnership is a special one. Together you can make great things happen, and ensure readers are engaged, entertained, and keep reading your work.

But if you truly can't afford professional editing services, then do everything you can to make your book its best version. Get many eyes on your book and lots of opinions to shape it, improve it, and make it error-free. (But if there's one editing service I recommend someone invest in, it's proofreading.)

For more information about editing and publishing or to work with me, contact me today.