Know What You Want.
Okay, sometimes it's difficult to know exactly what you want.
But, try your best to give the writer as much preliminary information on the project as you can - tone, time-lines, page numbers and, in the case of hiring a writer to edit a piece you've already created, know if you are looking for technical or creative editing.
Technical (or grammatical) editing includes such corrections as grammar, punctuation, typos, and minor clarity points. Creative (or editorial) editing covers the same points in technical editing but also involves re-writing/content creation and re-structuring to make your copy make more sense and flow more effectively. Editorial editing typically requires more skill and takes more time and will, therefore, cost more. But it can give you great piece of mind to have a second set of objective eyes look over your work before it goes to print.
If you change direction or concept three-quarters of the way through a project, you could be 'hooped'. "Yes", the writer assures you, "I can definetly change to this new concept you came up with. After I submit my invoce for work already completed I'll recalculate my new fee..."
No one works for free.
Knowing ahead of time exactly what you want means you will avoid the expense in terms of time and money. Having said that, try to be flexible as well. If your writer has suggestions that will add value to your product, by all means go for it.
So, got an idea of what you want? Great! Time to take action. Here are some suggestions:
(1) Email me right away to get your polishing started! mike@msoci.com
(2) If you prefer and don't mind sifting through an application process, try your luck at www.elance.com or www.guru.com to source other possible suppliers.
(3) Or, let's say you're not quite ready. A great resource I recommend when you're in the creative process is: The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Stephen Pressfield.
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